Among the most common consequences of a driver’s license revocation is the loss of freedom that comes with driving privileges. Although losing a license may seem like a minor inconvenience, being unable to drive can seriously affect a person’s life. A revoked license may prevent them from working, going to school, or participating in social activities. Losing driving privileges can lead to financial instability and a lower quality of life.
If you are facing a driver’s license suspension or revocation in Nevada, the trusted lawyers with Adras & Altig, Attorneys at Law are prepared to work tirelessly to have your charges dismissed or reduced. Our trial-tested criminal defense attorneys care about our clients and aggressively advocate for their rights, no matter the complexity of their cases. We take a team approach, leveraging our combined legal experience to get our clients the best possible outcomes. We believe every individual deserves competent, personalized legal representation, regardless of their charges or financial means.
If your driver’s license has been suspended or revoked in Nevada, contact our office to speak to our criminal defense attorneys during a free consultation.
What Is the Difference Between a Revoked and Suspended License?
The terms revocation and suspension are often used interchangeably. However, there are differences between the two. A suspended license temporarily halts an individual’s driving privileges. On the other hand, a revoked license is a more significant penalty. It typically means an individual has lost their right to operate a vehicle indefinitely.
Someone with a suspended license usually has the opportunity to resume their driving privileges after paying fines. However, reinstating a revoked license is much more challenging and may require applying for a new one.
What Can Cause a License to Be Revoked?
There are several reasons an individual’s driver’s license may be revoked. The most common causes of license revocation include the following:
- Accumulating too many points on a driver’s license
- Driving with a suspended license
- Being convicted of driving under the influence (DUI)
- Causing an accident that results in a fatality
- Leaving the scene of an accident involving an injury
- Drag racing
- Using altered or fictitious license plates
Consequences of Driving with a Revoked or Suspended License
A person caught driving with a suspended or revoked license may face significant penalties. Driving on a revoked or suspended license is a misdemeanor offense in Nevada. A conviction can result in penalties including:
- Fines up to $1,000
- Up to six months in jail
- An extension of the license suspension or revocation
In cases where a license is revoked because of a DUI conviction, the penalties for driving without a valid license can include the following:
- Fines between $500 and $1,000
- At least 30 days to six months in jail or 60 days’ home confinement
- A one-year extension of the license revocation
Keep in mind that a judge may not grant probation in cases of driving on a revoked or suspended license due to a DUI conviction.
How Long Does a License Revocation Last?
Depending on the circumstances, an individual’s driver’s license can remain revoked until they meet all the requirements for reinstatement. The length of a license revocation may also depend on how many DUI convictions a person has on their record. The standard license revocation guidelines in Nevada are:
- First DUI offense — Revocation period of at least 185 days
- Second DUI offense — Revocation period of one year
- Third DUI offense — Revocation period of three years
Can a Revoked License Be Reinstated?
It may be possible to reinstate a revoked driver’s license. Keep in mind that your driving privileges will remain revoked until you comply with all Nevada reinstatement requirements. You may also have to apply for a new license. Applying for a new driver’s license might require passing vision, written, and driving skills tests, as required by the Nevada DMV. There is no time limit for reinstating your license after revocation or suspension.
In the case of a DUI conviction, it may also be possible to reinstate your driving privileges if you agree to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle. After installing an ignition interlock device, you must present a certificate of compliance to your nearest DMV office. You may also be required to pass a written test, pay all reinstatement fees, and provide valid SR-22 insurance.
An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility, not a specific insurance policy. It is a form that proves your auto insurance policy meets the minimum liability coverage requirements set by Nevada law. Generally, you can contact your insurance provider and request an SR-22. Most companies will add the form endorsement to your policy and file it with the state.
Do I Need a Lawyer to Defend Myself After Driving with a Revoked or Suspended License?
It is in your best interest to hire a lawyer to defend you. Because driving privileges are often crucial to having a job, going to school, and participating in other daily activities, it’s essential to do everything you can to get the best outcome in your case.
An experienced DUI defense attorney can fight for your rights and work tirelessly to have your charges dropped or reduced. At Adras & Altig, Attorneys at Law, we deeply understand Nevada law and have decades of experience handling cases involving suspended or revoked licenses. We provide personalized, attentive representation to clients to help them obtain the best results. Our lawyers understand that your freedom is at stake and will handle your case with the utmost care and consideration.
Contact Adras & Altig, Attorneys at Law to Help You with Your Suspended or Revoked License Case
If you are concerned about the consequences of a suspended or revoked license, contact Adras & Altig, Attorneys at Law for help. Our lawyers have the experience and resources to advocate aggressively for your rights and fight for the best outcome in your case. Call us now for a free, confidential case review.
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At Adras & Altig, we believe that every client we work with deserves a fresh start. Our dedicated Las Vegas criminal defense attorneys take the time to get to know you so we can understand the circumstances surrounding your arrest.