Virginia Driving on a Suspended License

If you have had your Virginia driver's license suspended due to failure to pay a traffic fine, too many points assessed on your driving record, or more serious offenses such as Virginia DUI, reckless driving, or possession of marijuana, it is important that you comply with the suspension. Driving while suspended in Virginia is a serious offense that can lead to prolonged license suspension, significant fines, and even jail time. If you are subject to a traffic stop and are found to be driving with a suspended or revoked license, contact an experienced Virginia traffic lawyer at once. A skilled Virginia traffic attorney will evaluate your case to outline your best options for defense against the criminal charge of driving on a suspended license (DOS).

Penalties for Driving on Suspended License in Virginia

The legal consequences for driving while suspended in Virginia vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the initial reason for the suspension. For those suspended due to failure to pay a traffic fine, additional fines can be assessed, the suspension of your license can be extended, or you can receive jail time. However, you may be able to get a restricted license if the court allows it.

The maximum penalties for a first offense of driving on a suspended license in Virginia include:

• Additional license suspension equal to the period of the initial suspension OR for up to 90 days
• $2,500 fine
• 12 months in jail

Consequences for Virginia driving on a suspended license charges can be much greater for subsequent offenses. A third or subsequent offense of driving while suspended carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 days in jail. Even if a Judge wanted to suspend the jail time, the statute does not allow him to. If you have been charged with Virginia driving while suspended, a lawyer can tell you the sentence you face based upon the details of your suspension.

If you get a driving on suspended charge for driving outside the restrictions on your license or while your license is suspended for a DUI conviction, then you face a mandatory 1 year loss of your license as well as jail time and fines noted above.

Anyone who is caught driving on a revoked license for DUI faces a felony offense. This means you are facing one to five years in prison or an alternative sentence of up to 12 months jail and a fine up to $2500. You also will face an additional 3 year loss of your license or privilege to drive.