Having a suspended vehicle registration can cause some issues for drivers, especially in Illinois and Indiana. If you find yourself in this situation, understanding the rules and consequences is essential. Additionally, it’s important to address the reasons behind your suspension to avoid further penalties. This article covers key topics related to driving with suspended registrations and why Insured ASAP can help if your suspension is due to a lack of liability insurance.
Can You Register a Car with a Suspended License?
In Illinois and Indiana, having a suspended driver’s license doesn’t automatically prevent you from registering your car. Vehicle registration and driver’s licensing are separate processes. However, you may face difficulties if your registration suspension is tied to unresolved violations, fines, or lack of required insurance.
If your license is suspended due to an insurance-related violation, you must provide proof of liability insurance before reinstating your vehicle registration. Contact Insured ASAP for affordable liability insurance to resolve this issue quickly.
Can Someone Else Register My Car if My Registration Is Suspended?
Registration suspensions are tied to the vehicle license plate, not the vehicle identification number (VIN) or the registered owner. Having another individual, whether friend or family, register your your car if your registration is suspended is essentially selling your vehicle. Many states, including Illinois and Indiana, have a Private Party Vehicle Use Tax. This is defined as:
The tax is imposed on motor vehicles purchased (or acquired by gift or transfer) from another individual or private party. (Sales of motor vehicles from registered Illinois dealers are taxed under the Retailers’ Occupation Tax Act.)
In short, if someone else registers your car due to your suspended registration, the transaction will be subject to local state sales taxes and fees. Besides possible vehicle title fraud, there may be certain other risks involved when registering a car under another individuals name. You may want to speak with your local DMV for more information.
Can You Renew Your Tags with a Suspended License?
You cannot renew your vehicle tags if the registration is suspended. In Illinois and Indiana, renewing tags requires resolving any suspension-related issues, which often include:
- Paying outstanding fines or fees.
- Submitting proof of liability insurance.
- Meeting any additional state-specific requirements.
If you’re unable to renew due to an insurance lapse, Insured ASAP can provide a quote for liability insurance, helping you get back on the road legally.
Driving with Expired Registration
Driving with an expired registration is illegal in Illinois and Indiana. Law enforcement can issue fines, and repeated offenses may result in more severe penalties. If your registration is suspended or expired due to an insurance lapse, obtaining the proper coverage is your first step toward reinstating your registration.
Reasons Your License Plate May Be Suspended
License plate suspension occurs when a vehicle’s registration is invalidated due to non-compliance with state regulations. This can create significant challenges for vehicle owners, as driving with suspended plates is illegal and carries heavy penalties. Below are some of the most common reasons for license plate suspension:
- Failure to Maintain Liability Insurance: Required by law in Illinois and Indiana, a lapse or cancellation of insurance results in suspension.
- Unpaid Traffic Tickets or Toll Violations: Accumulating unpaid fines can lead to suspended plates.
- Delinquent Registration Renewal: Failing to renew your registration on time can result in suspension.
- Emissions Test Non-Compliance (Illinois Only): Missing required emissions testing in certain regions can cause suspension.
Addressing these issues promptly is critical to avoiding further penalties or complications.
Driver’s License Suspension: Common Causes
Driver’s license suspensions can arise from both driving-related and non-driving-related offenses. Losing your license affects your ability to legally operate a vehicle and can lead to further complications. Common causes of driver’s license suspension include:
- Excessive Traffic Violations: Accumulating too many points from infractions may result in suspension.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI): DUI offenses typically lead to automatic license suspension.
- Failure to Pay Fines or Child Support: Unresolved financial obligations, such as unpaid court fines or child support, can trigger suspension.
- Insurance-Related Offenses: Driving without insurance or failing to provide proof of insurance after an accident can lead to suspension.
- Non-Compliance with Legal Requirements: Missing court appearances or failing to complete mandatory programs like traffic school can result in suspension. Non compliance with court required SR-22 filing also results in a drivers license suspension.
Resolving these issues is essential for reinstating your driving privileges and avoiding additional consequences.
How Much Is the Penalty for Driving with Suspended Registration?
Penalties for driving with a suspended registration vary by state and situation but may include:
- Illinois: Fines range from $500 to $1,000. Additional penalties, such as license suspension or impounding your vehicle, may apply.
- Indiana: Fines typically start at $250 but can increase with repeat offenses or aggravating factors.
To avoid these costly penalties, ensure your vehicle is properly insured and registered. Insured ASAP can assist you in obtaining affordable liability insurance to get your registration reinstated.
Take Action Today
If your registration is suspended due to a lack of liability insurance, don’t wait to resolve the issue. Driving with a suspended registration can lead to severe consequences, including hefty fines, vehicle impoundment, and further complications. Visit Insured ASAP to get a free quote today.
Our affordable insurance options can help you reinstate your registration and get back on the road legally and quickly. Don’t risk the penalties—contact us now for the coverage you need.
References:
Illinois: https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/vehicles
Indiana: https://www.in.gov/bmv/licenses-permits-ids/suspension-and-reinstatement/
