Author: Lucrezia Miano
A driving licence is a legal document, issued by a State, that allows a person to drive vehicles. The legal consequences of driving without a valid licence should not be underestimated. First of all, it must be considered that violating the legal regulations concerning driving licences does not only mean driving without possessing the legal document that allows you to drive. In fact, it is also illegal to drive with an expired or suspended driving licence. Of course, driving with a permanently revoked licence is also not permitted. Finally, even if you do not show your licence to a public official while driving, you may face legal consequences.
This article will help you understand what you risk if you drive without permission. However, bear in mind that the legal consequences vary according to the different jurisdictions of the States.
The US legal framework
First of all, a distinction must be made between correctable infringements and intentional violations. In the first case, these are mistakes that only happen once, so the penalty is light. For example, you may receive a warning for forgetting your licence at home while driving. In this case you can also receive a fine and you have to prove that you have a valid driving licence. If you do not prove in court that you have a driving licence, the judge will not dismiss the citation and there may be other penalties.
On the contrary, intentional violations are more serious, because they are done on purpose. After these types of violations you can be considered dangerous and, in the United States, your licence can be taken away and you cannot drive again. So you cannot drive until the state allows you to do so again. In addition, you can be arrested for these violations and face criminal prosecution.
However, the specific penalties are different in the States of the US and vary according to individual state legislation.
And what about Europe?
Of course, the legal consequences vary for each European state.
In Spain offences committed while driving are considered administrative offences when they are not serious, while more dangerous behaviour falls under criminal law. The Spanish Penal Code considers it an offence to drive without a licence, whether you have never obtained a licence or your licence is no longer valid.
In Germany, driving without a licence can result in fines, penalty points and even imprisonment. However, if the offence is not intentional, the penalty may not exceed six months in prison.
In Italy if the police stop you while you are driving without a licence you have to pay a fine. In fact, this offence is considered an administrative offence. However, if it is not the first time you drive without a licence, your behaviour is a criminal offence.
In the UK if you drive a vehicle without having the proper licence you can get penalty points and a fine. Whereas if you drive without ever having obtained a licence you can be punished with a driving ban.
How to avoid legal consequences while driving
To avoid legal consequences make sure you have your driving licence with you. In case you are stopped by traffic police, it is important to have the official document stating that you can drive your vehicle. Also, make sure that the driving licence you have is appropriate for the vehicle you are driving. In fact, you need specific licences to drive some vehicles. Also, make sure that the driving licence you have is not expired and that it is accepted in the country where you are driving.
Conclusion
It is important not to underestimate the legal risks that may arise from driving without a licence. Indeed, in addition to a fine, there may sometimes be criminal consequences. In conclusion, you should always inform yourself about the driving legislation of the country you are in and ensure that you comply with all requirements.
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