Driving on a suspended or revoked license in Michigan can lead to steep penalties that affect your ability to work, care for your family, and move forward. Whether your suspension came from unpaid tickets or your revocation stems from DUI convictions, both DWLS and DWLR charges carry the same potential punishment. You may face jail time, longer suspensions, higher fines, and long-term consequences on your driving record. Below, we explain what these charges mean, what penalties you may face, and how we help you protect your future.
What Is the Difference Between DWLS and DWLR in Michigan?
Michigan law treats Driving While License Suspended (DWLS) and Driving While License Revoked (DWLR) under the same statute, but the reasons behind each charge differ.
DWLS usually happens when:
- You have unpaid traffic tickets
- You missed a court date
- Your license was suspended as the result of a single DUI conviction
- Your license was suspended for a non-DUI reason
DWLR usually happens when:
- You have multiple drunk or drugged driving convictions
- The Secretary of State revoked your license
- You continued driving after a mandatory revocation period began
Even though the underlying causes differ, both offenses carry identical potential penalties.
What Penalties Can You Face for DWLS or DWLR?
Many people are surprised at how serious these cases can be. A judge can impose:
- Jail time
- Large fines
- Vehicle immobilization
- Probation
Upon conviction, the Michigan Secretary of State must impose:
- A mandatory additional period of suspension or revocation
- Points on your driving record
If you have any prior DWLS or DWLR convictions, penalties usually get tougher. Repeat offenses make jail a more realistic possibility, and the court will take your driving history seriously.
Does a Conviction Automatically Extend Your Suspension or Revocation?
Michigan law requires the Secretary of State to add more sanctions when you are convicted of DWLS or DWLR, or ANY moving violation during a period of suspension or revocation. That means:
- A new suspension for DWLS
- A longer revocation period for DWLR
- Delays in restoring or reinstating your driving privileges
This is why avoiding a conviction is so important. Once the state adds a new suspension or revocation, there is no workaround to shorten it.
How Does Your Court Location Affect Your Case?
Where your case is filed can impact what happens next.
- Oakland County courts tend to be the strictest, so a good defense plan is essential
- Macomb County and Wayne County courts can be a bit more “flexible,” depending on the judge and circumstances
Judges have wide discretion in suspended and revoked license cases, and different courts handle these charges differently.
Can You Avoid Jail for DWLS or DWLR?
In most cases, yes, especially with the right defense strategy and preparation. Jail becomes more likely when:
- You have multiple DWLS or DWLR convictions
- You continue driving after a revocation
- Your case involves additional charges
We work to keep you out of jail, reduce the impact on your record, and prevent added sanctions from the Secretary of State.
How Do We Reduce or Avoid the Consequences of a Conviction?
Most success in these cases happens during plea negotiations, not at trial. A strong defense aims for:
- A reduced charge
- A non-moving violation
- A plea agreement that avoids new suspensions or revocations
We focus on giving the judge reasons to show leniency and preparing the case so that the outcome protects your record, your job, and your ability to move forward.
Protect Yourself When Facing DWLS or DWLR Charges
Driving on a suspended or revoked license can create long-term problems, but you do not have to manage this alone. At Jeffrey Randa and Associates, we step in early, address the issues behind your suspension or revocation, and work to reduce the penalties that could affect your employment, your driving record, and your ability to drive again legally. If you are facing DWLS or DWLR charges and want a strategy that puts you in the strongest position possible, contact us today to get started.
All of our consultations are free, confidential, and done over the phone, right when you call. We are very friendly people who will be glad to answer your questions and help you understand your situation, and what we can do about it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my license be suspended after a DWLS conviction?
Suspension length varies, but you will receive an additional suspension on top of any current one.
Will a DWLS or DWLR conviction affect my insurance rates?
Yes, insurance companies treat suspended and revoked license convictions as high-risk indicators. Your premiums may increase, and some insurers may decline to renew your policy. Reducing the charge or avoiding a conviction can help limit these consequences.
Can I get a hardship license after DWLS or DWLR?
Michigan does not offer hardship licenses for suspended or revoked drivers, but you may qualify for reinstatement or restoration later.
