People drive without a license for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, it is simply an accident. Maybe you misplaced your license or forgot your wallet at home. Other times, one may be aware that he or she is driving with a suspended license. There are different types of unlicensed drivers in New Jersey and each violation carries different penalties. Read on to learn more about what happens if you are pulled over and found driving without a license.
Different Types of Unlicensed Drivers
- License not in possession: occurs when you have a valid license but it is not currently on your person
- Driving without a valid license: occurs when you have never been issued a valid license
- Driving with a suspended or revoked license: occurs when you have a license that has been suspended or revoked
Penalties of Each Violation
- License not in possession: If you are found driving without a license but can prove that you do have a valid driver’s license, you may have to pay a small fine. This violation carries a $150 penalty.
- Driving without a valid license: In this case, you may face fines of $200 to $500 and up to 60 days in jail. If convicted, you will also be prohibited from obtaining a driver’s license for at least 180 days.
- Driving with a suspended license: If this is your first violation, you will face a $500 charge. If you are caught for a second time, you will face a $750 fine and one to five days in jail. Anyone convicted of a third or subsequent offense may face a $1,000 fine and ten days in jail.
If you face any of the above violations, reach out to a skilled traffic violations attorney who will attempt to fight to lower your fines.
New Exception to the Rule
New Jersey has recently passed a new law allowing teens who have passed their road tests to use their permits as a temporary driver’s license. This means, after passing the road tests, teens will not have to crown the MVC to get their licenses. This has been done to prevent crowds and long lines in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Instead, teens will be able to use their validated permit as a temporary license.
If you have any questions about this new law and how it may affect you or your teen, reach out to our firm for more information.
Contact our Firm
The Law Offices of Richard E. Novak, LLC has over 25 years of experience helping clients through tough times when they need it most. If you need assistance with any intellectual property, traffic violations, or business law matters, our firm is here to help. It is critical that you pick the right attorney who can protect your rights. Contact The Law Offices of Richard E. Novak, LLC for a consultation.