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 Pennsylvania, the suspension or revocation of a driver's license can result from serious offenses such as DUI, hit-and-run, fleeing and eluding, excessive traffic violations, and failure to pay child support. Drivers with suspended or revoked licenses may be eligible for an Occupational Limited License (OLL) for essential travel, such as to work, school, or treatment programs. Additionally, Pennsylvania offers the Ignition Interlock Limited License (IILL) for certain DUI offenders, which requires an ignition interlock device to be installed in their vehicle. To reinstate a suspended license, the driver must typically show proof of insurance, pay any outstanding child support, complete required treatment programs, and pay a reinstatement fee. Driving with a suspended license (DWLS) is a criminal offense in Pennsylvania and can result in fines, and potentially jail time for repeat offenses.