Driving With No License
Florida may seem like a laidback state, but they take licensing seriously. Under Section 322.03 of the Florida Statutes, a person may not drive any motor vehicle on a roadway in the state unless they have a valid driver license.
It’s important that this law is followed. Unlicensed drivers are a huge problem in the Sunshine State. Those who are without a license may not know how to drive. They may have had a license at one time but got it revoked due to drunk driving, reckless driving, or some other issue.
These issues can cause problems for those who drive on the roadways and have valid licenses. People can get in serious accidents, Plus, those who drive without a valid license in Florida can lead to various consequences depending on the circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of what can happen.
No License at All (NO VALID DL)
If you’re caught driving without a license and you have never obtained one in the first place, it’s typically classified as a second-degree misdemeanor. The penalties for a first offense include:
- A fine of up to $500.
- Up to 60 days in jail.
- A potential court-ordered suspension of your ability to obtain a license for a specific period.
- A 2nd offense is a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail
- A 3rd or subsequent offense is a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and includes a minimum mandatory 10 days in jail
Driving with a Suspended or Revoked License (DWLSR)
If your license has been suspended or revoked, the penalties increase each time your convicted. For a first offense, it is typically a second-degree misdemeanor, which can result in a fine of up to $500 as well as up to 60 days in jail. A second offense is punishable by up to a year and jail. A third or subsequent offense carries a minimum of 10 days in jail.
Drivers that get three of these charges within a five-year period will be labeled a “habitual traffic offender” and get their license revoked for five years.
Your vehicle may also get impounded and you will have to pay hefty fees to get it back.
Contact Us Today
You need a valid license to drive. Without one, you could be ticketed or arrested. You could also face other penalties.
Need help? Contact a Fort Myers driving without a valid license attorney at Hollander & Hanuka. We can help you understand the charges you are facing, the potential consequences of a conviction, and how best to address your situation. Call 239-332-3300 to schedule a consultation.
Source:
aceable.com/blog/what-happens-if-you-drive-without-a-valid-license-in-florida/
