Driving Without a License

What happens if you get caught driving without a license or permit?

C.G.A § 40-5-20 prohibits driving without a license. Driving Without a License is generally a misdemeanor offense that carries up to 12 months in jail and a $1000 fine.

Can you go to jail for no license?

An officer who pulls you over for Driving Without a License is authorized by law to arrest you and take you to jail. Further, Georgia provides mandatory jail sentences depending on how many times you have been convicted of Driving Without a License in the last 5 years. A 1^st offense mandates 2 days in jail. A second and third offense mandates 10 days in jail but prosecutors are authorized to ask for additional time over the minimum. Finally, a 4^th and subsequent offense in 5 years is a felony offense that calls for at least 1 year to 5 years in prison.

What happens if you crash without a license?

Generally, the police are called by one or more parties when they are involved in a traffic accident. The police will arrive on the scene to conduct an investigation into what happened to cause the accident and write a report about their findings. If the police determine that any driver was driving without a license, then the officer is authorized by law to arrest that person with Driving Without a License. You should remain at the scene of an accident even if you do not have a license because leaving the scene of an accident can result in additional charges.

Can I lose my license after an accident?

Simply being involved in an accident will not cause you to lose your license. Sometimes a driver is charged with traffic offenses or crimes if the police determine that crime or traffic violation occurred during their investigation. Some traffic violations or crimes, such as Driving on a Suspended License, Driving Under the Influence, Driving Without Insurance, and Hit and Run will suspend your license after a conviction. So, if you are charged in connection with a traffic accident you should consult with an attorney to determine if you face a license suspension.

Can you buy insurance without a license?

Some car insurance companies may refuse to provide insurance coverage to individuals who do not have a current license or will deny claims by an unlicensed driver. You should consult with your insurance company to determine their policy in regard to unlicensed drivers.

Can you buy a car without a license?

Most car dealerships will not sell a vehicle unless the purchaser can provide proof that he/she possesses a valid license. O.C.G.A § 40-5-122 prohibits any person who owns or has physical control of a vehicle to allow an unlicensed person to drive that vehicle. It is therefore arguably against the law to sell a car to a person you know does not possess a valid driver’s license.

Can you drive a car off the lot without a license?

Most car dealerships will not allow an unlicensed driver to take possession of one of their cars unless they have a license as required by O.C.G.A. § 40-5-122. Further, Georgia law prohibits an unlicensed driver to drive even to drive a vehicle home after purchase.

What happens if you get pulled over and you don’t have your license?

An officer who pulls you over for Driving Without a License is authorized by law to arrest you and take you to jail. Further, Georgia provides mandatory jail sentences depending on how many times you have been convicted of Driving Without a License in the last 5 years. A 1^st offense mandates 2 days in jail. A second and third offense mandates 10 days in jail but prosecutors are authorized to ask for additional time over the minimum. Finally, a 4^th and subsequent offense in 5 years is a felony offense which calls for at least 1 year to 5 years in prison.

Frequently Asked Questions