Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License in Louisiana

In Louisiana, various circumstances can lead to license suspension or revocation. You can lose your driving privileges for certain criminal convictions, getting too many tickets, and several 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" 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 the same in many respects. Each type of revocation or suspension has reinstatement requirements. However, a person whose license is revoked must apply for a new license. But the labels "suspension" and "revocation" don't make much of a difference when it comes to the punishments for driving while a license is suspended or revoked. (La. Rev. Stat. § 32:401 (2026).)

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.

(La. Rev. Stat. § 32:414 (2026).)

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

• driving under the influence
• manslaughter or vehicular homicide
• negligently causing an injury with a vehicle
• using a vehicle to commit a felony
• failure to stop at the scene of an accident if you caused injury or death to someone, or
• three charges of reckless driving within a year.

(La. Rev. Stat. § 32:414 (2026).)

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're 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. (La. Rev. Stat. § 32:415 (2026).)

Driving on a Suspended or Revoked Class D or E License

If you have a class D or E driver's license, the sentence might involve a fine of up to $500, a maximum of six months in jail, and civil penalties of up to $1,250. (La. Rev. Stat. § 32:415 (2026).)

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. (La. Rev. Stat. § 32:415 (2026).)

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

If you're caught driving while suspended for a second or subsequent DUI (also called "OWI") offense, you'll face a fine of $300 to $500, imprisonment for not less than seven days nor more than six months, and a civil penalty of up to $1,250. (La. Rev. Stat. § 32:415 (2026).)

Reinstating Your License

You shouldn't 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. (La. Rev. Stat. §§ 32:378.2, 32:423 (2026).)

Generally, to reinstate your license, you'll have to pay a fee. In many cases, the reinstatement fee will be $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. (La. Rev. Stat. § 32:414 (2026).)

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

If you're 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.