When a driving under the influence (DUI) charge puts your driver's license in jeopardy, it's easy to feel confused. The penalties for DUI are often imposed by the department of motor vehicles before you even have an opportunity to face the judge, and the various terms used deserve an explanation. Read on to learn more.

Suspended or Revoked?

Regardless of which of the above categories your situation fits – it's all bad news. It might be said that having a suspended license is very bad and having a revoked license is far worse than that. The main difference in the two is that a suspension may be only temporary but a revocation can be permanent. While your license is under either of two, however, driving is out of the question.

DUI License Suspensions

While this is the lesser of two evils, suspended licenses can cause those charged with DUI untold misery. Suspensions can be either definite or indefinite. In this case, definite is better. Usually, you can have your license reinstated if you abide by the other punishments and fulfill the waiting period. Often, high fees must be paid to have your license reinstated.

It may take some effort on your part to convince the courts to reinstate your license when an indefinite suspension occurs, even if you have completed all requirements. If you are caught driving with a suspended license, you may face stiff penalties, new charges, and a driver's license revocation.

DUI License Revocations

This more serious level of punishment is reserved for those who failed to take DUI laws and punishments into consideration. Here are some common issues that might cause a revocation:

• Repeatedly driving with a suspended license.
• Having an accident with a suspended license (which is a felony).
• Being arrested for DUI for a second or more times within a certain period of time.

This penalty for having a DUI conviction (and other crimes and citations) is said to be permanent, but only in a sense. While it is correct to say that you cannot get your license back after a revocation, you can be issued a new license. In other words, you must start all over again and apply for a new license. You must take the driving tests, vision tests, written tests, etc. Additionally, you must request permission to apply for a new license.

When it comes to your right to drive, license suspensions and revocations can be a sticky issue. Speak to your criminal defense attorney about what is needed to get yourself back on the road.