Like other states, Michigan takes it seriously when an individual is impaired behind the wheel. In fact, a DUI conviction in this state comes with particularly severe penalties, including the suspension or revocation of the driver’s license. This article touches on the primary differences between those two options.
A suspension of a driver’s license is temporary. It may have a definite end date or an indefinite one. If the suspension has a definite end date, the driver will need to pay the relevant termination fees in order to get officially end the suspension, at which point the individual may legally drive again. An indefinite suspension requires the driver to take some action before the state will consider ending it. However, it will not be necessary to reapply for a license or take any other steps in order to regain the ability to drive.
A revocation is much more severe and complex. This option means the full cancellation of the driver’s license. Ordinarily, there is no reinstatement. The driver may be able to get a new license after the end of the revocation period, but will need to go through numerous steps, including applying as if he or she never had a driver’s license at all. More than likely, there will be some civil penalties associated with this process as well.
Obviously, if faced with only these two choices, a Michigan resident would probably rather face a suspension rather than a revocation. The better option would be to avoid either eventuality, which may be possible depending on the circumstances. One way to know for sure is to work with a criminal defense attorney to achieve the best outcome possible to the DUI charge, which will have an effect on whether the driver faces revocation or suspension.