What Does it Mean to have a Driver’s License Revoked?

Did You Get Your Driver’s License Revoked?

Here is what it means.

A revocation is a withdrawal or complete termination of your driving privilege. The revocation is indefinite. There is no guarantee that you will get your license back.

If the DMV has suspended your driver’s license, it is typically a temporary action for a specific period. When your suspension is over, the DMV will reinstate your driving privilege as long as you meet the conditions for reinstatement.

A revocation is different.

How Can You Get a Revoked Driver’s License Back?

While a license suspension is temporary, a revoked license is a permanent termination. There is, however, usually a revocation period, similar to a suspension period. You may apply for a new driver’s license when this revocation period has passed.

Applying for a new driver’s license is more complicated than simply reinstating your old one.

You must visit your local DMV office, present all necessary documents, and pass all the tests again, including the written knowledge and road tests.

When is a Driver’s License Revoked and Not Suspended?

The rules differ between states. The general idea is that more severe offenses should call for a revocation, and less serious violations result in a suspension. Drag racing, speed contests, and several reckless driving convictions can result in a revocation. Habitual offenders are also likely to face a revocation. When the state has vehicular manslaughter as a felony, you will probably also have your driver’s license revoked after a conviction.

Sometimes, your driver’s manual lists the consequences of violations, including suspension and revocation periods.

As an example, Kansas may require a revocation for the following (2016):

• Vehicular homicide resulting from the operation of a motor vehicle.
• Failure to stop and render aid as required under the laws of this state in the event of a motor vehicle accident resulting in the death or personal injury of another.
• Reckless driving.
• Any felony in the commission of which a motor vehicle is used.
• Attempting to elude a police officer.
• Aggravated vehicular homicide.
• Vehicular battery.
• A fifth test result of .08 or greater or refusal to submit to chemical testing to determine the alcohol/drug content of blood will result in a permanent license revocation.

It gives you a good idea of how states use revocations. For another list of possible reasons for license revocations, read this: 5 Ways to Lose Your Driving Privilege.

What Should You Know for Your DMV Test?

You don’t need to memorize all the details for your permit or driver’s license exam. You will rarely see penalties or consequences for different violations on your written knowledge test. It is, however, useful to understand the difference between a revocation and a suspension.

It would help if you also understood the difference between a severe traffic violation and a minor offense. If your driver’s manual contains a list of demerit points added to your driving record when the court convicts you of an offense, this list usually gives you a good hint.

DMV Test Questions for Your State