Driving With a Revoked License in North Carolina: What Happens Next?
- kingrowelaw
- Apr 1
- 2 min read
If you’ve been caught driving with a revoked license in North Carolina, you’re likely feeling anxious—and with good reason. This charge is more serious than many realize. Fortunately, with help from local attorneys who understand the ins and outs of NC traffic law, you may have options to reduce the impact or even fight the charge.
At King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law, we’ve helped drivers throughout Catawba County and surrounding areas face these charges head-on. Here’s what you need to know—and how attorneys near you can help.
What Is Driving While License Revoked (DWLR)?
In North Carolina, DWLR means operating a motor vehicle while your driver's license has been suspended or revoked. There are actually two types of DWLR charges:
DWLR – Not Impaired Revocation (N.C.G.S. § 20-28(a))This typically applies when a license is revoked for non-DWI reasons—like unpaid tickets, DMV points, or missing a court date. Still a misdemeanor, but usually seen as less severe.
DWLR – Impaired Revocation (N.C.G.S. § 20-28(a1))This is much more serious. If your license was revoked because of a DWI and you’re caught driving anyway, this charge carries harsher penalties—including possible jail time.
Potential Penalties for DWLR in NC
Depending on your specific situation, penalties can include:
Up to 120 days in jail for certain DWLR convictions
Fines and court costs
Extended license suspension or permanent revocation
Vehicle forfeiture (in some impaired revocation cases)
Probation or community service
The penalties are even harsher if this isn’t your first offense or if there are other charges involved (like speeding, no insurance, or reckless driving).
Why You Shouldn’t Face This Alone
Some drivers assume there’s no point in fighting a DWLR charge—but that’s not true. In many cases, a local attorneycan challenge the reason for the stop, negotiate a reduced charge, or help you restore your driving privileges to lessen the impact.
At King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law, we dig deep into every case:
Was the stop lawful?
Was the license actually revoked at the time of the stop?
Can we help you get your license reinstated before court?
Is a plea deal available that avoids jail time?
We’ve helped clients keep their records clean, stay out of jail, and regain their driving rights faster.
The Advantage of Hiring Local Attorneys
When you’re facing a DWLR charge, working with attorneys near you who know the local court system makes a real difference. At King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law, we appear regularly in courts across Catawba County and surrounding areas. We understand how prosecutors and judges approach these charges—and we use that insight to your advantage.
Don’t Let One Mistake Derail Your Life
Getting charged with driving on a revoked license is serious, but it doesn’t have to define your future. The earlier you involve an experienced attorney, the better your chances for a positive outcome.
Contact King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law today to schedule a consultation. We’re proud to be your trusted local attorneys, and we’ll fight to protect your rights, your license, and your future.
828-466-3858
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