If you commit certain traffic crimes in Virginia and the court finds you guilty, you will often face driver’s license suspension or revocation. These are two different penalties that mean different things for you and your driving privileges. Which one applies in your case is usually dependent on the criminal charge. 

The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles explains revocation is a termination of your driving privileges whereas suspension is a temporary loss of privileges. Revocation is much more serious. You may face revocation for a DUI charge, driving under suspension, fraudulent activity involving the accusation of a license or manslaughter involving a vehicle. You may face suspension for reckless driving or excessive points on your driving record. Do note there are other situations that may lead to a suspension or revocation and these are just examples of criminal charges that could lead to these results. 

To get your driver’s license back, you may have to provide the DMV with a medical report and proof of special insurance coverage. You may have to complete an interview process or attend an educational program. The DMV may also require a court order or proof that you have met all the conditions of your sentence. You will also need to pay fines. You may have to show your personal identification documents again. 

For a revocation, you will have to go through the process to secure a driver’s license again just as you did when you first got them. This includes securing a permit and taking the driving test. This information is for education and is not legal advice.