In Maryland, your driver's license can be suspended or revoked for alcohol-related offenses, certain criminal convictions, and even issues unrelated to driving, such as failing to pay child support. Like most states, Maryland considers driving while your license is suspended or revoked to be a serious offense. A conviction can result in fines, jail time, and additional time without driving privileges.
Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most common reasons drivers face suspension or revocation. A DUI-related suspension can result from a conviction or a DUI arrest (even without a conviction) if the driver fails an alcohol test with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or more or refuses to take a test in violation of the state's implied consent laws.
Maryland uses a traffic violation point system. Under this system, moving violations are assigned a certain number of points, and drivers who accumulate too many points within a two-year period face license suspension.
License suspension can also result from conduct unrelated to driving such as:
However, this is just a partial list—your license may be suspended or revoked for many other reasons.
After your suspension or revocation period expires, you may need to reinstate your license or meet other conditions before you may legally drive again. In some circumstances, you may need to pay an application fee or additional fees.
Driving a vehicle when your license is suspended or revoked is a crime in Maryland. Generally, a conviction carries fines and possible jail time.
The maximum jail sentence for a conviction depends on the reason for the crime and whether you have prior convictions for driving on a suspended license. In most cases, a first offense carries a fine of up to $1,000 and a maximum one year in jail. Most second or subsequent offenses carry a fine of up to $1,000 and a maximum two years in jail.
In addition, a conviction will generally result in your license being revoked. Maryland places 12 points on your license for a driving-on-a-suspended-or-revoked conviction (with a few exceptions). Drivers who have 12 points face revocation for at least six months.
The consequences can be serious if you are convicted of driving on a suspended or revoked license. A conviction can bring fines and jail time. An attorney who is familiar with how these charges are handled in your city or area will be best able to provide you with advice about your case.
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