Criminal charges for operating a vehicle during a license suspension or revocation period.
Updated November 15, 2022
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 When your license is suspended your driving privilege is temporarily withdrawn for a specific period of time. When your driver's license is revoked, your driving privileges are terminated and withdrawn until the end of the revocation period.
However, in practice, there isn't much difference between a revocation and suspension other than the label.
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 include in Utah include:
- racking up too many demerit points from traffic tickets
- being convicted of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- refusing to take an alcohol test in violation of the state's implied consent laws
- vehicular manslaughter convictions
- being convicted of reckless driving twice in 12 months
- using a vehicle to commit a felony offense
- being convicted of street racing, and
- failing to stop if you are involved in an accident that kills or injures someone.
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.
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.
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. The reinstatement fee is usually $40.
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.
