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The Consequences of Driving Without a License in Virginia

Posted on December 31, 2024 in Criminal Defense

Loudoun County, VA lawyer for driving without a license In 2021, the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) determined that unlicensed drivers accounted for nearly 11,000 fatal crashes. About 31.8 percent of drivers involved in fatal accidents have a previous license suspension or revocation, 17.2 percent have prior traffic offenses on their record, and 16.9 percent have at least one prior speeding conviction.

The laws in the state of Virginia – and every other state – prohibit any person from driving without a license. In some cases, driving without a license can even result in jail time and significant fines. If you have been charged with driving without a license, a Loudon County, VA traffic defense attorney can help.

What Are Some Reasons a Person Could Be Driving with a Suspended or Revoked License?

The most common reason a person might be driving with a suspended license involves a DUI conviction. A first-time DUI conviction could result in a suspended license for 12 months. A second DUI conviction could result in a suspended license for three years, and a third DUI conviction could result in a permanent license suspension with the ability to petition for a driver’s license reinstatement after five years.

Other offenses that can result in a driver’s license suspension include speeding and reckless driving. In some cases, a driver may have simply forgotten to renew his or her driver’s license. Most driver’s licenses in Virginia are valid for eight years. While the state does offer online renewal, the license must be renewed in person every other cycle.

What Are the Potential Penalties Associated with Driving Without a License?

Under Virginia Code 46.2-303-308, everyone who operates a motor vehicle on any highway in the state must have a valid driver’s license unless he or she is exempt. Generally speaking, driving without a valid driver’s license (first time) is a Class 2 misdemeanor that can result in a jail sentence of up to six months and a $1,000 fine.

A second or subsequent offense of driving without a valid driver’s license could result in up to a year in jail and a maximum fine of $2,500. Depending on the situation, the driver who is driving without a license could also have his or her car impounded, which triggers storage and impounding fees.

What Impact Could Driving Without a License Have on Your Insurance Rates?

Those convicted of driving without a valid driver’s license will almost certainly see a significant increase in auto insurance rates – in some cases, to the point where insurance is unaffordable. An accident while driving without a valid license will increase insurance rates even more. Those who were not insured at the time of the charges for driving without a license may find it even more difficult to obtain auto insurance.

The Pathway to License Reinstatement

Having a knowledgeable Virginia traffic offense attorney involved can make a substantial difference in the outcome of charges for driving without a valid driver’s license and can assist in getting a driver’s suspended license reinstated. A driver who has met all legal requirements of his or her penalty for driving without a license must do the following for license reinstatement:

Participate in a driver improvement course
Participate in the Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program and complete an intervention interview (for a DUI suspension)
Purchase and submit proof of comprehensive car insurance coverage
Pay a reinstatement fee
In some cases, re-take a road knowledge and skills exam

Contact a Loudoun County, VA Traffic Offense Lawyer

If you are facing charges of driving without a valid license, these charges must be taken very seriously, as they can have an adverse effect on your future. When you have a Loudoun County, VA traffic offense attorney from Whitlock Law, LLC, you will likely have a much better outcome. We provide a small firm client experience with large firm knowledge and results as we tenaciously advocate for our clients. Call 301-565-1655 to schedule your free consultation.

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The Consequences of Driving Without a License in Virginia

What Are Some Reasons a Person Could Be Driving with a Suspended or Revoked License?

What Are the Potential Penalties Associated with Driving Without a License?

What Impact Could Driving Without a License Have on Your Insurance Rates?

The Pathway to License Reinstatement

Contact a Loudoun County, VA Traffic Offense Lawyer

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