DRIVING WITHOUT A LICENSE IN PA

If you plead guilty or are found guilty of Driving Without a License in Pennsylvania, it can negatively impact your driving record and ability to drive in the future. Even if you were Driving on a Suspended License, and feel like you “got a break” with this charge, pleading guilty may not be your best option.

Driving Without a License Defined

The traffic charge of driving without a license is found at Title 75 Section 1501(a) of the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code. This section prohibits individuals from driving a vehicle upon a highway or public property unless the person has a valid driver’s license. Public property includes government parking lots and driveways.

Defense for Driving Without a License

If you had a valid driver’s license at the time of the offense, you can avoid a conviction for this offense if you produce it at the Magistrate’s office within 15 days of the violation. If your license was lost or destroyed, but you had a valid license at the time, you can provide alternative proof that you were licensed at the time of the violation.

Penalties for Driving Without a License

If you plead guilty or are found guilty of Driving Without a License, you face the following penalties:

  • A fine of $200, or a fine of $25 if less than one year has elapsed between the last date for renewing your license. When adding court costs, your fine and costs could reach approximately $350.

  • No license suspension for a 1st conviction;

  • If this is your 2nd conviction within the last 5 years for Driving Without a License, your license will be suspended for 6 months.

  • The offense will be recorded on your driving record;

  • Those who live or are licensed out of state may face a license suspension in their home state.

What to do if cited for Driving Without a License

Unfortunately, our office receives many calls from individuals who plead guilty, not realizing that they would lose their license or hurt their job prospects. For a free consultation, please call 412-447-5580. We can assist you in determining what the potential penalties are for a conviction. If retained for representation, we will review your driving history and fight for a dismissal or amendment of the charge to limit the consequences.