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. And in many states a driver who is arrested for DUI/DWI will have their license confiscated by the arresting officer and it will be automatically suspended when the department of motor vehicles (DMV) receives notice of the arrest.

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 prosecuted as a misdemeanor with a fine as punishment—and the possibility of jail time for subsequent DWLS offenses.

In Massachusetts, the suspension or revocation of a driver's license can result from serious driving offenses such as DUI (driving under the influence), hit-and-run, excessive traffic violations, and failure to pay child support. When a person is arrested for DUI, their license may be immediately confiscated and suspended upon notification to the RMV (Registry of Motor Vehicles), which is the equivalent of the DMV in other states. Drivers with a suspended or revoked license may be eligible for a hardship license or a Cinderella license, which allows them to drive during certain hours for specific purposes like work, school, or treatment programs. Additionally, Massachusetts allows for the use of an ignition interlock device (IID) for certain offenders as a condition for license reinstatement or as part of a hardship license. To reinstate a suspended license, the driver must typically provide proof of insurance, pay any outstanding fines or child support, complete any required treatment programs, and pay a reinstatement fee. Driving with a suspended license in Massachusetts is a criminal offense that can result in fines and possible jail time, especially for repeat offenses.