WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU DRIVE WITHOUT A LICENSE IN TX?

Like all states, Texas requires drivers to have a valid driver’s license when operating a motor vehicle. Drivers who are pulled over and cannot produce a license can face tough penalties, such as fines, license suspension, and in some cases even jail time.

Since the consequence of driving without a license is so harsh, it’s simply not worth the risk. However, if you are caught operating a vehicle without a license or with a suspended or revoked license, it’s recommended you contact an experienced criminal defense attorney in your area for representation.

PUNISHMENTS FOR DRIVING WITHOUT A LICENSE

It’s important to understand that if you don’t have a license, it makes no difference how well you drive. Even if you are driving safely and obeying the speed limit, if an officer catches you without a valid driver’s license in Texas you will be punished.

Listed below are the penalties for driving without a license in Texas:

• First offense. You will be charged with a misdemeanor and issued a fine up to $200.
• Second offense. If you are caught a second time within a year of your first offense, you will be charged with a misdemeanor and receive a fine ranging from $25 -$200.
• Third offense. If it is your third offense within a year of the first offense, you can receive up to 6 months in jail and a fine up to $500.
• Accidents. If you’re driving without a license and get into an accident, you’ll face a Class A misdemeanor charge, punishable by up to a year in jail and a $4,000 fine. You may also be responsible for paying the medical expenses of any injured persons and the cost of damaged vehicles.

Driving with a suspended or revoked license is also illegal, and if you’re pulled over you can be punished with fines, a further suspension of your license, and in some instances, jail time. First-time offenses are considered class C misdemeanors and punishable by up to $500 in fines and license suspension, while second-time offenses are Class B misdemeanors, which can carry up to $2,000 in fines and up to six months in jail.

Not only can you face heavy fines for driving without a license or a suspended or revoked license, if you are pulled over and nobody in the car has a valid driver’s license, your car will be impounded and you will be taken to jail.

KNOWLEDGEABLE TEXAS CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYS

If you or a loved one are facing charges for driving without a license or with a suspended or revoked license, the Law Office of Andrew Williams can help you navigate the legal system and avoid a conviction. We have over 20 years of experience working exclusively in criminal law, and we are proud of the work we’ve done for our clients in Texas. For a free consultation, give us a ring at 281-358-9111 or contact us online.

Author: Andrew Williams

I am a criminal defense lawyer with over 30 years experience defending people accused of wrongdoing. I am board certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Only ten percent of attorneys in Texas are board certified in their respective field. I practice criminal law exclusively in both state and federal court including appeals of criminal cases.