Driving without a license in Florida
Many believe that being charged with driving without a license, license suspended, or expired in Florida is not serious. However, you may be punished with fines, probation, and even jail time. Those who are not United States citizens may face immigration consequences. It is illegal to drive in Florida without a valid driver’s license (Fla, Stat. 322).
Driving without a license and driving with an expired license have different elements. Driving without a license is for those who never held a valid driver’s license while those driving on an expired license is for those who had a valid Florida driver’s license, but it expired. Driving on a suspended license entails driving while your Florida driving privileges have been suspended for any number of reasons.
Those who hold driver licenses from other countries are allowed to drive in Florida for a limited amount of time. According to Florida laws, once a person becomes a resident of the state (regardless of their immigration status), he/she must obtain a valid Florida driver’s license. It is important to highlight that it is possible to be considered a resident of the state of Florida even if one is in the U.S. on a valid tourist status.
When someone is charged driving without a license or with an expired driver’s license their case will go before a criminal county judge, and they will have to appear in court. An attorney can help guide you through the case and use their legal knowledge to secure a better outcome. Not understanding the criminal proceedings and legal jargon can lead to one not understanding the results, which can cause serious consequences. Also, an attorney can appear on your behalf for most criminal hearings. It is important to hire an experienced attorney so that you can be confident you can get the best resolution possible and understand the disposition of your case.
Please contact us at (407) 490-0696 or using the form on the right for a consultation to discuss misdemeanors charges.