Data shows that only 9% of American adults don’t have a valid license. The highest percentage of those without a license are ages 19 and under (60.5%), 85 and older (30.9%), and 20-24 (19%)
Driving without a license is a traffic violation that the state takes seriously. It also carries multiple penalties, some of which may not be immediately obvious. In such a situation, a minimum fine of $100 and 3 demerit points added to your driving record may be the least of your worries. But can you get arrested for driving without a license?
Aside from suspension of your driving privileges or points on your driving record, it is also possible to get arrested. Not only that, the reinstatement procedure itself can be difficult because of its strict requirements and paperwork to follow.
So before driving without a license, think about the whole range of consequences and the effect they could have on you.
Fines For Driving Without A License
You’ll typically face fines if caught driving without a license in North Carolina. The exact amount can vary depending on the circumstances, but you can expect to pay around $100 for a first offense. If this isn’t your first time being caught driving without a license, the fines can increase significantly. Repeat offenses may result in penalties of up to $500 or more. Remember that driving without a license is considered a Class 3 misdemeanor in North Carolina, which can also lead to additional penalties beyond just fines.
Driving without a license can also result in your vehicle being towed and impounded, leading to additional costs and inconvenience. There are also long-term consequences of having a conviction for driving without a license, which can affect your ability to obtain a valid driver’s license.
The Law Office of Donald P. Day, a home for attorneys for juveniles, says that minors who face charges against driving without a license or even other potential offenses, even though they are underage, still have to sit in jail or a detention center.
Potential Jail Time
Driving without a valid license in North Carolina is a Class 3 misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum of up to 20 days in jail. Although first-time offenders are unlikely to receive jail time, repeat offenders or those with aggravating circumstances may face harsher consequences.
If caught driving without a valid license for the second or subsequent time, you will likely be sentenced to jail. But if your offense involved other serious violations, such as reckless driving or causing an accident, the court may impose a jail sentence as part of your penalty.
Suspension Of Driving Privileges
The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) can suspend your driving privileges if you are caught driving without a valid driver’s license. The duration of the suspension can vary depending on the severity of the offense, but it usually lasts from 30 days to an extended period. During this time, you are not allowed to operate any motor vehicle on public roads in the state.
Having your driving privileges suspended can seriously affect your daily life. You may face difficulties commuting to work, running errands, or fulfilling other obligations requiring a vehicle. Driving with a suspended license can also result in additional penalties and legal consequences that could worsen the initial issue. So, settle the suspension quickly and follow the necessary steps to reinstate your driving privileges once the suspension period ends.
Additional Consequences
Aside from facing fines and the potential for criminal charges, driving without a permit can increase insurance premiums due to the associated risk. A suspended license can also make obtaining auto insurance or securing employment that requires driving tricky.
If you continue to drive with a suspended license, you may face harsher penalties such as vehicle impoundment, more extended periods of license suspension, or even jail time. Your driving record will also be negatively impacted, potentially affecting your ability to obtain a license. If you were to be involved in an accident while driving without a license, you may be held personally liable for damages and face civil lawsuits.
Reinstatement Process
To reinstate your driver’s license in North Carolina after it has been suspended for driving without a license, you must follow a specific process outlined by the Department of Motor Vehicles:
- You must pay any outstanding fines for driving without a license.
- Once the fines are settled, you must provide proof of financial responsibility, such as an SR-22 insurance certificate, to demonstrate that you meet the state’s insurance requirements.
- You must complete any required driver improvement clinics or substance abuse treatment programs if ordered to do so by the court or DMV.
- After fulfilling all these obligations, you can apply for license reinstatement through the DMV. This process typically involves submitting the necessary forms, paying a reinstatement fee, and potentially passing a written and road test again.
Failure to follow the requirements could result in delays or complications in regaining your driving privileges.
Conclusion
If you’re caught driving without a license in North Carolina, you could face hefty fines, possible jail time, and a suspension of your driving privileges.
It’s not worth the risk; always have a valid license before getting behind the wheel. If you find yourself in a situation where your license has been suspended or revoked, know the possible consequences and follow the necessary steps to reinstate your license so you can drive again legally. Stay safe and drive responsibly!
