Each state has its own license designations. Therefore, the state motor vehicle department or laws would determine each designation for their state.

An invalid license is one that is not legally in force. Examples would include a suspended license, an expired license, a revoked license, or a cancelled license. Another way that a license may be considered invalid could be if the license is not used for the proper purpose. For instance, a motor vehicle being driven with a motorcycle license, a restricted license or permit being used outside of the state mandated limitations or a commercial vehicle being driven without a commercial drivers license.

A reinstated license is a one that was previously, not legally in force, and the driving privileges have been restored. A reinstated driver’s license is a valid drivers license, however, depending on the reason(s) for the suspension or revocation, there may be additional requirements to maintain the validity of the license. Certain violations and or circumstances may require the driver to carry specific coverage for a state amount of time as with an SR22 or FR44. Providing the terms of the reinstatement are maintain the license will remain valid.

Each state has guidelines for maintaining a legal driver’s license. They also, each, have consequences for not following these guidelines and penalties if a driver caught misusing their driving privileges. To find information for your state please check with the state motor vehicle department.