Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License in Utah

As in all other states, Utah drivers can have their driving privileges suspended or revoked for a variety of criminal convictions, traffic violations, and other reasons. And motorists who are caught driving during a suspension or revocation are likely to face criminal charges.

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

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 and 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 Utah

Utah follows the general rules explained above. When your license is suspended, your driving privilege is temporarily withdrawn for a specific period. When your driver's license is revoked, your driving privileges are terminated until the end of the revocation period. (Utah Code § 53-3-102 (2026).)

In practice, there isn't much difference between a revocation and suspension, except for the process for getting your license back. Unlike the process for reinstating a suspended license, you must apply for a new license at the end of a revocation period, which includes testing and other requirements for getting a new license. (Utah Code §§ 53-3-205, 53-3-225 (2026).)

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

Some of the more common circumstances that can lead to license revocation or suspension in Utah include:

• vehicular manslaughter convictions
• being convicted of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• using a vehicle to commit a felony offense
• failing to stop if you’re involved in an accident that kills or injures someone
• being convicted of reckless driving twice in 12 months
• being convicted of street racing
• refusing to take an alcohol test in violation of the state's implied consent laws, and
• racking up too many demerit points from traffic tickets.

(Utah Code §§ 53-3-220, 53-3-221 (2026).)

These are some of the reasons that can result in the loss of driving privileges, but there are many more.

Criminal Charges for Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License

In Utah, driving on a suspended or revoked license is a misdemeanor criminal offense. However, the specific classification of misdemeanor and possible penalties depend on the circumstances.

Standard Driving-on-Suspended-or-Revoked Violation in Utah

In many instances, driving on a suspended or revoked license is a class C misdemeanor. A conviction carries up to 90 days in jail and a maximum fine of $750. (Utah Code §§ 53-3-227, 76-3-204, 76-3-301 (2026).)

Driving on a License That Was Suspended or Revoked for a DUI, Implied Consent Violation, or Vehicular Homicide in Utah

You can be charged with a class B misdemeanor and subject to more serious penalties if your license was suspended for certain offenses, including:

• an implied consent chemical test refusal violation
• driving under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances, or
• vehicular homicide.

As a class B misdemeanor, driving on a suspended or revoked license carries up to six months in jail and a $750 to $1,000 fine. (Utah Code §§ 41-6a-502, 53-3-227, 76-3-204, 76-3-301, 76-5-207 (2026).)

How Do You Reinstate a Revoked or Suspended License in Utah?

The period of time your license is suspended or revoked depends on the circumstances. But once the suspension or revocation period is over, you'll typically need to pay a reinstatement fee and might have to meet other conditions before you can legally drive again. (As noted above, you’ll need to apply for a new license if your license was revoked.) The reinstatement fee is usually $40, but the total fee is $340 for DUI-related offenses. (Utah Code § 53-3-105 (2026).)

Legal Help for Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License

Being convicted of driving on a suspended or revoked license can have serious consequences. So, if you've been arrested for one of these violations, it's a good idea to get in contact with an attorney who has experience dealing with this type of case. A qualified attorney can help you understand what you're up against and decide on the best course of action.