Caught Driving Without License or With Suspended License
To keep up with the fast-paced world, many of us want to join the trend and drive fast cars or vehicles. Merely possessing a vehicle or finding pleasure in driving does not suffice. If you want to drive, you must have a valid driving license because driving comes with important responsibilities.
A driver’s license ensures that drivers have the necessary qualifications for safe driving and also allows the government to prevent dangerous drivers from using the roads.
In Texas state Law, there are different offenses related to driving without a license or with a suspended driver’s license including:
- This may involve a young individual engaging in joyriding or an individual who never obtained a driver’s license.
- Driving with a suspended license due to financial issues like unpaid tickets or taxes.
- Not having a driver’s license in their possession, possibly because it was lost or left at home.
- Driving with a revoked license due to multiple traffic violations or driving under the influence.
- Operating a vehicle with an expired license is against Texas law which requires keeping the license up to date.
The punishment depends on whether you have a current license. Let’s look at the offenses under the Texas Penal Code, which include driving without a license or with a suspended license.
Consequences of Driving Without License in Texas
For individuals found guilty as First-time offenders, they will be subject to a fine of $200.
Second-time offenders: Class C misdemeanor, with a punishment ranging from $25 to $200.
Third-time offenders: Class B misdemeanor, with a fine of up to $200 and an imprisonment of 3 days to 6 months jail time.
Driving without a valid license can result in your vehicle being impounded, and you may face incarceration until bail is posted by someone else, which is typically around $1,000.
Moreover, if an accident happens, and the person responsible for it causes bodily harm, and they don’t have the required car insurance, it becomes a Class A misdemeanor. The punishment for this offense can include up to one year of imprisonment and a fine of up to $4,000.
It is crucial to emphasize that if you lack a valid driver’s license, the police will not permit you to simply drive away and return home. Your car will likely be towed, and you’ll need to cover the towing and storage costs at the tow yard.
Consequences of Driving With Suspended License in Texas
First-time offenders: Class C misdemeanor, with a fine up to $500 and may have to pay an extra $250 per year for 3 years. As a result, the license will face an extended suspension period.
Second-time offenders: Class B misdemeanor, with a fine up to $2,000 and 180 days in jail.
In some situations, driving with a suspended or revoked license can be considered a Class A misdemeanor. This happens when you drive without insurance and cause a severe injury or death in a crash. Class A misdemeanors can lead to a one-year jail term and a maximum fine of $4,000.
Does Getting Caught Driving Without License or With Suspended License Have an Impact on Car Insurance?
Having a suspended license makes you a high-risk driver, which can result in higher auto insurance rates or difficulties in finding insurance. Violate the law and get caught, and it becomes a traffic offense on your record, visible to your car insurer.
Conviction for a traffic offense related to your suspended license can lead to further escalation of your car insurance rates. Also, when your insurance is up for renewal during the suspension period, the insurer might choose not to renew it. Note that most insurance companies don’t cover drivers with suspended licenses, especially those convicted of suspension-related law violations. Coverage might become available only upon suspension removal or with a special hardship or restricted license.
Arrested? Don’t Plea, Call Me!
We can help with charges for driving without a license or with a suspended one. In cases where the suspension is automatic, it is assumed that you knew about it. However, drawing from the Texas Transportation Code, we can contend that in certain instances, you were unaware of the law you were violating.
Don’t underestimate the seriousness of driving with a suspended or no license in Texas. If you find yourself facing such a charge, rest assured that you do not have to navigate this situation alone. At Texas Criminal Defense Group, we are here to assist you and represent your case in court. Striving for optimal results, we negotiate reduced charges and pursue complete case dismissal
By seeking our assistance, you can gain peace of mind knowing that experienced professionals are on your side. We’ll lead you through legal processes, clarify your rights and choices, and offer steadfast support at every juncture. Our ultimate aim is to achieve the best possible outcome for you and help you move forward with your life.