Driving while your license is suspended, revoked, or denied is a Michigan misdemeanor that can bring up to 93 days in jail and a fine of up to $500 for a first offense. A violation after a prior conviction carries up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. The charge is in MCL 257.904, with penalties in subsection (3).
Reviewed by Attorney Kevin Bessant, Law Office of Kevin Bessant & Associates. Last reviewed October 2026.
Driving while license suspended at a glance
| Charge | Driving while license suspended, revoked, or denied, MCL 257.904 |
|---|---|
| First violation | Up to 93 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, or both (subsection (3)(a)) |
| After a prior conviction | Up to 1 year in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both (subsection (3)(b)) |
| Vehicle plates | The Secretary of State must cancel the plates on notice from a peace officer, unless the vehicle was stolen or used with the permission of a person who did not knowingly permit an unlicensed driver to drive it |
| Additional suspension | A conviction or civil infraction while your license is suspended or revoked can add a like period of suspension or revocation (subsection (10)) |
When does it become a felony?
If the driver causes a death while driving on a suspended license, the offense is a felony with up to 15 years in prison and a fine of $2,500 to $10,000 (subsection (4)). If the driver causes a serious impairment of a body function, it is a felony with up to 5 years and a fine of $1,000 to $5,000 (subsection (5)). These two subsections do not apply to a person whose license was suspended for failing to answer a citation or comply with an order or judgment under section 321a.
Common defenses
- The suspension. The prosecutor must prove your license was actually suspended, revoked, or denied on the date you drove. Records and notices can be checked for errors.
- The prior convictions. The enhanced penalty requires proof of prior convictions that meet the statute’s rules.
- The stop. The officer needs a lawful reason to stop you.
- Clearing the suspension. Fixing the underlying problem can help in negotiations.
Related pages: traffic tickets.
Frequently asked questions
Is driving on a suspended license a crime in Michigan?
Yes. A first violation is a misdemeanor with up to 93 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.
What happens if I have a prior conviction?
The maximum rises to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000 under MCL 257.904(3)(b).
Talk to a Detroit traffic defense attorney
Call Attorney Kevin Bessant at 313-658-8159 for a free consultation.
Legal Authority
See MCL 257.904 in the Michigan Legislature’s text. This page is general information, not legal advice.