Driving with a Suspended License

Charged with Driving on a Suspended License? We Can Help.

In Pennsylvania, driving with a suspended license is a serious offense under 75 Pa.C.S. §1543(a). Unlike a routine traffic ticket, this charge can carry heavy fines, extended suspension time, and even possible jail time for repeat offenders.

At Sheridan Lawyers, we know how damaging these charges can be—affecting your ability to work, care for your family, and move forward. Our defense team aggressively fights these cases to protect your license, your record, and your future.

What Is 75 Pa.C.S. §1543(a)?

Section 1543(a) of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code makes it illegal to drive when your operating privilege is suspended, revoked, canceled, or recalled for reasons other than DUI.

Suspensions can come from many causes, including:

• Failure to pay traffic tickets or court costs

• Accumulation of too many points on your license

• Insurance violations (such as driving without proper coverage)

• Failure to respond to PennDOT notices

• Certain criminal convictions unrelated to DUI

Even if you were unaware of the suspension, driving under §1543(a) can lead to criminal charges.

Penalties for Driving with a Suspended License

Penalties vary depending on your history and whether it’s a first or repeat offense:

• First Offense:

  • $200 fine

  • Additional one-year suspension of your license

• Second or Subsequent Offense:

  • Higher fines

  • Possible jail time in some circumstances

  • Additional license suspension

Although penalties under §1543(a) are less severe than DUI-related suspensions under §1543(b), they can still add years to your suspension and create major obstacles for your future.

Defense Strategies for Suspended License Charges

Sheridan Lawyers explores every avenue to challenge your charge, including:

• Notice issues: Did PennDOT properly notify you of your suspension?

• Improper stop: Did police have legal grounds to pull you over?

• Administrative mistakes: Was your license actually suspended at the time of the stop?

• Hardship considerations: Negotiating for reduced penalties when driving was necessary for work, school, or family obligations.

Our goal is to help you avoid jail time, reduce fines, and get you back on the road legally as soon as possible.

Why Choose Sheridan Lawyers?

• Extensive experience handling license suspension and traffic-related offenses in Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties

• Aggressive advocacy against PennDOT and prosecutors

• Compassionate representation—we know people often drive because they must, not because they want to break the law

• Proven results helping clients avoid extended suspensions and harsh penalties