How DUI Convictions Affect Your Driver’s License and Insurance

 Posted on December 30, 2025 in DUI

A DUI conviction in Illinois can affect much more than a court case. It can limit your ability to drive. It can also raise your insurance costs for years. These consequences often begin quickly and continue long after fines are paid or probation ends.

People are often surprised to learn that license penalties can begin before a DUI case is even finished in court. If you are facing DUI charges, contact our Joliet, IL DUI defense lawyers as quickly as possible.

How Does a DUI Conviction Affect Your Driver’s License in Illinois?

A DUI arrest can trigger two separate legal processes. One happens in criminal court. The other is handled by the Illinois Secretary of State and focuses only on your driving privileges.

Illinois uses a system called statutory summary suspension. This is an automatic suspension of your driver’s license. It can apply even if you have not been convicted of DUI.

Under 625 ILCS 5/11-501.1, a statutory summary suspension may occur if you refuse chemical testing or if testing shows a blood alcohol concentration at or above the legal limit. The suspension usually begins 46 days after the arrest. This means you can lose your license while your DUI case is still pending. They can even keep it if you win your DUI case.

How Long Can You Lose Your Licence for a DUI Case in Illinois?

The length of time you may lose your driver’s license depends on your DUI history and what happened during the traffic stop. Refusing chemical testing often leads to longer suspension periods than failing a test. First-time offenders usually face shorter suspensions, but even a temporary loss of driving privileges can create serious challenges.

There is also a strict deadline to challenge a DUI-related suspension. If that deadline is missed, you may lose the opportunity to request a hearing and contest the loss of your license.

What Is the Difference Between a License Suspension and a Revocation?

A license suspension is temporary. Your driving privileges are removed for a set period. After that period ends, you may be eligible to get your license back. A license revocation is more severe. Revocation means your license is taken away completely. To drive again, you must wait a required period and then apply for a new license, or talk to your attorney about possible reinstatement.

Under 625 ILCS 5/6-205, a DUI conviction can lead to license revocation, especially in repeat DUI cases or when aggravating factors are present. Revocation periods increase with each conviction.

Can You Still Drive After a DUI Arrest in Illinois?

In some cases, limited driving may be allowed. Illinois provides certain permits that allow driving under strict conditions. One option is a Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP). Not everyone qualifies for an MDDP. Eligibility depends on your DUI history and whether your license was suspended or revoked.

This permit allows limited driving if your vehicle is equipped with a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID). A BAIID requires you to provide a breath sample before the car will start. Random breath tests may also occur while driving.

How Does a DUI Conviction Affect Auto Insurance in Illinois?

Insurance consequences often last longer than license penalties. After a DUI conviction, most insurance companies label drivers as high risk. This classification usually leads to higher premiums. Some drivers also face policy cancellation or limited coverage options.

Illinois law may require proof of financial responsibility. Under 625 ILCS 5/7-601, some drivers must file an SR-22 certificate with the state. An SR-22 is not insurance. It is a form that your insurance company files to confirm you carry the required coverage. SR-22 requirements often last several years and usually increase insurance costs.

How Long Do DUI Insurance Consequences Last?

Insurance effects usually last longer than people expect. Even after your license is restored, insurance companies may consider a DUI for many years. Some insurers look back five years. Others consider DUI history for longer periods. The exact impact depends on the company, your driving record, and prior offenses. Remember, insurance companies generally act to protect their bottom line. A DUI conviction is an excuse charge you more.

What Happens if You Drive While Your License Is Suspended or Revoked?

Driving without valid driving privileges is a separate offense in Illinois. It can lead to new criminal charges and longer license penalties. It may result in fines, jail time, or extended loss of driving privileges. It can also affect your ability to qualify for a driving permit in the future.

What Charges Can Result From DUI-Related License Violations?

Several additional charges can follow a DUI-related license violation. These charges often increase penalties and extend license consequences.

Common situations that may lead to additional charges include:

• Driving during a statutory summary suspension
• Driving after license revocation
• Violating BAIID or driving permit rules
• Failing to maintain required insurance or SR-22 coverage

These violations can make it much harder to regain full driving privileges.

How Can a DUI Conviction Affect Your Job and Daily Life?

License and insurance consequences often reach far beyond the ability to drive. Many people depend on a valid driver’s license for work, school, medical appointments, and family obligations. Some employers require a clean driving record or proof of insurance, which can limit job options after a DUI. Higher insurance costs can also place long-term strain on household budgets. These ripple effects are often felt long after the court case itself is resolved.

Why Is It Important to Address DUI License Issues Early?

DUI cases move quickly, especially when it comes to driver’s license penalties. Missing required deadlines can limit the ability to challenge a suspension or seek driving relief.

Addressing license issues early may help preserve options, such as hearings or limited driving permits. Coordinating the criminal case and the license process at the same time often puts drivers in a stronger position from the start.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Will County, IL DUI Defense Attorneys

At McNamara Phelan McSteen, LLC, we focus on helping people understand the full impact of DUI charges, not just what happens in court. Our firm brings a combined 150 years of legal experience to DUI defense cases. That experience allows us to address driver’s license consequences, insurance issues, and defense strategy together.

If you are facing a DUI and have questions about your license or insurance, call 815-727-0100 to schedule your free consultation with our Joliet, IL DUI defense lawyers today.