Revoking or suspending a motorist's operator's license is a common penalty for many traffic infractions, especially those related to impaired driving. Unfortunately, many offenders continue to drive. It is not unusual for drivers with a suspended license to receive additional traffic citations or be involved in crashes during periods of license suspension. As a way of reducing this problem, many states have passed laws that directly affect the offender's vehicle or license plates as a sanction for the impaired driving offense or for driving with a suspended license. In addition, some states now permit the vehicles of drivers convicted of certain impaired driving offenses to be impounded, immobilized (with a club or boot), or forfeited and sold. Other states allow the license plates to be removed and impounded. Still others allow for the use of specially marked license plates, or allow for the installment of alcohol ignition interlock devices. This Fact Sheet presents additional information about this topic under the following headings: Key Facts; Legislative Status; Recommendations for Strengthening and Increasing the Use of Vehicle and Vehicle Plate Sanctions; Research and Evaluation Regarding the Effects of Vehicle and Plate Sanctions; Transfer and Grant Programs; and Information Sources. (Author/publisher)
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