Penalties for driving on a suspended or revoked driver's license in Illinois is charged under 625 ILCS 5/6-303 and is considered a serious offense. Driving on a suspended or revoked license may lead to a charge of a Class A Misdemeanor which is punishable by a maximum of 364 days in jail and $2,500 in fines plus any court costs that may be imposed. 

 

Penalties for driving on a suspended or revoked license may be lighter for the first offense, but significantly increase for repeat offenses. If the driver's license was suspended because of a DUI, there could be harsher sentences for those who violate their suspension. 

 

It is very difficult to predict the penalties for driving on a suspended or revoked license, however there are several factors that prosecutors look for when negotiating with  defense attorneys. 

• Prior convictions or arrests for driving on a suspended or revoked license
• Prior convictions for traffic violations such as speeding, DUI, etc. 
• The reasons for the driver's license suspension
• Length of time of the suspension

Reasons for Suspension or Revocation of Driver's License

There are a variety of reasons why your driver's license could be suspended or revoked. The grounds for your license to be suspended include:

• Driving while under the influence of alcohol 
• Missing court, failing to appear at court for a different traffic offense
• Not having Auto insurance
• Failing to pay fines or a traffic ticket or another traffic related fine; or
• Reckless driving or aggravated speeding

Failing to pay court ordered child support or excessive parking tickets may also result in suspension or revocation of a driver's license

 

A driver may still have driving privileges even if his driver's license is suspended or revoked by retaining the option of using a restricted license. Giving the driver the right to use this restricted license to drive back and forth to work or school.