Suspension or revocation of driver’s license is often the result of conviction for serious driving offenses, such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, hit-and-run, fleeing and eluding, excessive traffic tickets, and racing—or failing to meet other state-mandated financial obligations, such as timely payment of child support.

A driver whose license has been suspended or revoked may be able to apply for and secure a restricted driver’s license or occupational restricted license to only drive to and from places such as work, school, drug or alcohol treatment, and community service. And in some states such a driver may be able to apply for an ignition interlock device (IID) restricted license that permits the driver to drive with an installed IID that tests for alcohol and drug consumption before the vehicle is operable.

When a driver’s license is suspended, the driver may be able to apply to the state for reinstatement of driving privileges upon meeting requirements such as: (1) providing proof of financial responsibility (required automobile liability insurance); (2) payment of child support in arrears; (3) participation in drug and alcohol evaluation and treatment programs; and (4) payment of a reinstatement fee.

The infraction or offense of driving with license suspended is usually located in a state’s statutes, and may prosecuted as a misdemeanor with a fine as punishment—and the possibility of jail time for subsequent DWLS offenses.

In North Carolina, suspension or revocation of a driver's license can occur for various reasons, including driving under the influence (DUI), hit-and-run incidents, fleeing from law enforcement, accumulating excessive traffic violations, engaging in illegal racing, or failing to pay child support. Drivers with a suspended or revoked license may be eligible to apply for a limited driving privilege, which allows them to drive to specific places like work, school, or treatment programs under certain conditions. For DUI-related offenses, an individual may be required to use an ignition interlock device (IID) that prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected. To reinstate a suspended license, the driver must typically demonstrate financial responsibility through auto insurance, pay any outstanding child support, complete any mandated treatment programs, and pay a reinstatement fee. Driving with a suspended license (DWLS) is a serious offense in North Carolina and can result in misdemeanor charges, fines, and potential jail time for repeat offenses.