Driving Without a Driver’s License Defense Lawyer

You are not required by law to obtain legal representation for unlicensed driving; however, hiring an experienced attorney can help you avoid severe penalties, months in jail, and other legal consequences. 

When you hire a criminal defense lawyer at the Hines Law Firm, they can guide you through the legal process and handle every aspect of your case, focusing on creating a strong defense that can result in the dismissal of the charges or reduced charges.

What Are Common Reasons for License Suspension?

A driver’s license can be suspended for a variety of reasons, ranging from traffic violations to non-driving-related issues.

The reasons for license suspension vary by state, but here are some of the most common causes:

1. Accumulation of Traffic Violations (Points-Based Suspension)

• Many states have a points system where each traffic violation adds points to your driving record. Accumulating too many points within a certain period can result in a suspended license. Common violations include speeding, running red lights, and reckless driving.

2. Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

• DUI or DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) is one of the most common reasons for license suspension. Even a first offense often results in an automatic suspension, and subsequent offenses lead to longer suspension periods and possible revocation.

3. Refusal to Take a Breathalyzer Test

• Most states have "implied consent" laws, which means that by driving, you consent to submit to a breathalyzer or chemical test if an officer suspects you’re under the influence. Refusing this test can result in an immediate suspension.

4. Driving Without Insurance

• Many states require drivers to carry auto insurance. If you’re caught driving without insurance, your license can be suspended. Some states require proof of insurance even after you regain your license.

5. Failure to Appear in Court

• If you receive a ticket and fail to appear in court or don’t pay the associated fines, the court can issue a suspension until you comply with the court’s requirements.

6. Unpaid Traffic Tickets or Fines

• Unpaid traffic tickets, fines, or court fees can lead to a license suspension. Many states suspend driving privileges as a way to encourage payment of outstanding penalties.

7. Unpaid Child Support

• Non-payment of court-ordered child support is another common reason for license suspension. Many states enforce this as a measure to encourage payment compliance.

8. Reckless or Dangerous Driving

• Reckless driving, which includes excessive speeding, street racing, or aggressive driving, can lead to an immediate suspension, even for a first offense.

9. Serious At-Fault Accident

• Causing a serious accident, especially if it results in injury or death, can result in a suspension. If the driver is found to be at fault or was driving recklessly, the state may impose a suspension as a penalty.

10. Medical Conditions

• Certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy, vision impairments, or other health issues that could impair safe driving, can result in license suspension. These suspensions often remain until the driver provides medical proof that they are fit to drive.

11. Underage Drinking and Driving

• Many states have a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. Minors caught driving with any detectable alcohol in their system often face immediate license suspension.

12. Failure to Pay Vehicle-Related Fees

• Failing to pay vehicle registration fees or other required vehicle-related payments may lead to a license suspension until the fees are paid and records are updated.

13. School Attendance Violations (for Minors)

• In some states, minors can lose their driving privileges for failing to attend school regularly. This suspension remains until the individual reaches a certain age or returns to school.

14. Engaging in Criminal Activity

• Involvement in certain criminal activities, such as fleeing law enforcement or other serious offenses, can lead to license suspension.

15. Failure to Pay Court Judgments

• If you lose a civil case involving a car accident and don’t pay the required judgment, your license can be suspended until the debt is resolved.

What Are the Penalties for Driving Without a License in Georgia?

The penalties for driving without a license in Georgia can depend on the circumstances.

In some cases, the driver may face jail time, fines, and additional license suspension.

Whether it’s the driver’s 1st, 2nd, or 3rd offense can also have an impact on the potential penalties they will face.

1st Offense

If a motorist is convicted of driving without a valid license, they may be faced with:

• Multiple reinstatement fees
• Six-month license suspension
• Minimum fines of $500
• Minimum of two days in jail
• Two defensive driving classes

2nd Offense

If a motorist was convicted of driving without a license two times within five years, they may be faced with:

• Reinstatement fees
• A one-year license suspension
• A minimum fine of $1,000
• A minimum of ten days in jail
• Defensive driving classes

Driving with a Suspended License

Driving without a valid license or without having your license on your person can cause problems. However, there are much stiffer penalties for motorists operating a vehicle on a suspended license.

The Department of Driver Services sends out notifications when a license is canceled or suspended.

However, some motorists fail to file a change of address through DDS, or they miss the notification in the mail.