Many people use “suspension” and “revocation” interchangeably when discussing the loss of driving privileges and driver’s license reinstatement. However, these terms refer to two distinct situations with different approaches to restoring driving rights.
Driver’s License Suspension
What is a Suspension?
A driver’s license suspension temporarily withdraws driving privileges for a set period. After this period, you can typically reinstate your license. Common reasons for suspension include:
- Accumulating too many points on your driving record
- Failing to pay fines or appear in court
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
Reinstating a Suspended License
After your suspension period ends, you need to meet specific requirements to reinstate your license. This process includes paying any outstanding fines and possibly attending a hearing.
Driver’s License Revocation
What is a Revocation?
Driver’s license revocation is a more severe action that terminates driving privileges indefinitely. In Illinois, revocation can result from:
- A single DUI conviction
- Multiple DUI arrests
- An out-of-state DUI arrest
- Reckless driving causing injury or death
- Leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death
- Certain criminal offenses related to driving
The Revocation Process
Once your license is revoked, you must attend a hearing with the Secretary of State.
Informal Hearings
- Overview: Conducted on a walk-in basis without an appointment. A single hearing officer reviews the case, and other officers later review the gathered information.
- Locations: Informal hearings are available at many locations across Illinois.
- Find a Location: Visit the Illinois SOS website to locate a nearby facility offering informal hearings.
Formal Hearings
- Overview: Require an appointment. You must submit a formal hearing request with a $50 filing fee. It usually takes up to 90 days to receive a hearing date. Multiple hearing officers conduct formal hearings.
- Locations: Held in Springfield, Chicago, Joliet, and Mt. Vernon.
- Legal Representation: Permitted in both formal and informal hearings.
For more details on the Illinois SOS hearing process, visit Illinois SOS Hearing Information.
Importance of Treatment Paperwork
What is Required?
Many believe that only a completed Uniform Report (DUI evaluation) is necessary for the hearing. However, a comprehensive hearing packet is needed to be eligible for driver’s license reinstatement. A licensed substance abuse counselor should prepare this packet.
Choosing a Counselor
Selecting a competent, qualified counselor is essential. A complete hearing packet, prepared by a licensed substance abuse counselor, will speak to the quality of treatment and the changes that have happened in a person’s life as a result. Several documents go into telling this story, and it is very important to find a competent, qualified counselor to complete this for you.
At Hopewell Clinical, our counselors have extensive experience navigating the Secretary of State hearing process. Contact us today (217-223-0170) to discuss your case and begin the path to regaining your driving privileges.