Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License in Louisiana

Criminal charges for operating a vehicle with suspended or revoked driving privileges.

By , Attorney · University of San Francisco School of Law
Updated December 07, 2022

In Louisiana, there are lots of circumstances that can lead to license suspension or revocation. You can lose your driving privileges for certain criminal convictions, getting too many tickets, and quite a few other reasons. And, if you drive while your license is suspended or revoked, you could be charged with a crime.

This article covers some of the most common reasons for license suspensions and revocations and the penalties you'll face for driving on a suspended or revoked license in Louisiana.

What Does It Mean to Have Your License Suspended or Revoked?

When your license is suspended or revoked, it generally means that the state has taken away your driving privileges. In other words, while the suspension or revocation is in place, you can't lawfully drive.

General Differences Between Suspension and Revocation

In many states, "revocation" and "suspension" are used synonymously, they mean the same thing. However, some states use the term "suspension" to mean a temporary loss of privileges and "revocation" to mean the permanent loss of privileges. But even in states where revocation is permanent, the driver can typically apply for reinstatement after a certain period of time.

Difference Between Suspensions and Revocations in Louisiana

In Louisiana, a suspension and revocation are essentially the same. Each type of revocation or suspension has reinstatement requirements. But the labels "suspension" and "revocation" don't make much of a difference.

What Are the Reasons for License Suspension or Revocation in Louisiana?

Some examples of how traffic offenses can lead to your license being suspended or revoked include:

  • being the driver in an accident resulting in death or injury to another person
  • committing frequent enough traffic offenses that the state believes you disrespect traffic laws and disregard others' safety, or
  • are habitually negligent or reckless when you drive.

Criminal convictions relating to your driving may also result in a license suspension or revocation. Your license may be suspended or revoked if you are convicted of:

These are just partial lists. Your license may be suspended or revoked for other driving offenses, criminal convictions, and other matters.

What Are the Penalties for Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License in Louisiana?

Driving on a suspended or revoked license is a crime. If you are charged, your sentence will depend, in part, on the kind of license that you had and whether you have previous convictions for driving on a suspended or revoked license.

In addition to the penalties explained below, for any conviction of driving on a suspended or revoked license, your period of suspension or revocation will be extended for a period of one year.

Driving on a Suspended or Revoked Class D or E License

If you have a class D or E driver's license, the sentence typically involves a fine of up to $500, a maximum of six months in jail, and civil penalties of up to $1,250.

Driving on a Suspended or Revoked Class A, B, or C License

If you have a class A, B, or C driver's license, you'll normally face a fine of up to $5,000, a maximum of six months in jail, and a civil penalty of up to $2,500.

Driving on License That was Suspended for a Second or Subsequent OWI/DUI

If you are caught driving while suspended for a second or subsequent OWI/DUI offense, you're required to serve at least seven days in jail and the minimum fine is $300.

Reinstating Your License

You should not drive while your license is suspended or revoked. In some cases, you might be able to receive an early reinstatement or a restricted license if you can show that you need to drive to earn a living. Interlock ignition devices might be required if you receive a restricted license for some alcohol-related suspensions.

Generally, to reinstate your license, you'll have to pay a fee. In many cases, the reinstatement fee will be $50 or $60. However, if your license was suspended or revoked for an alcohol-related offense such as DUI, the fee will be $100, $200, or $300, depending on how many prior convictions you have.

Legal Help for Charges of Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License in Louisiana

If you are charged with driving on a suspended or revoked license, consider discussing your case with an attorney. A conviction brings the possibility of serious consequences. An experienced lawyer in your area can help you decide on the best course of action given the facts of your case.

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