For many people, securing a driver’s license is a rite of passage. Teenagers take one step closer to adulthood when they gain driving privileges. Immigrants and those who recently moved to the state may seek a Colorado driver’s license as a way of celebrating their new residence.
Drivers have to complete mandatory education and pass a state test to secure a driver’s license. They have to comply with regulations and renew their licenses by paying a fee to retain their driving privileges.
If police officers pull someone over and discover that they do not have a license, they may accuse the motorist of operating a vehicle without a license. Such allegations can lead to significant consequences for the driver accused.
Different scenarios lead to different penalties
There are two distinct scenarios that may result in people facing accusations of driving without a license. The penalties that the state can impose depend on the circumstances of the violation.
If a driver simply didn’t have their license with them in the vehicle, they face a traffic infraction or citation. So long as the driver can show that they had a valid license at the time of the traffic stop, they may need to pay a fine of up to $100, as well as a surcharge.
The state can also add up to six points to the driver’s record if they have a prior infraction for the same offense. A citation is also possible in cases involving a license that expired less than a year ago.
If a driver never secured a license, lost their license due to other traffic violations or has a long-expired license, then the state could pursue misdemeanor charges against them. The penalties possible include up to $300 in fines and between 10 and 90 days in jail.
The driver accused may become ineligible for a commercial driver’s license (CDL). They also have to consider the criminal record of the offense that could turn up during background checks.
Those accused of traffic infractions that can add points to their license and affect their professional opportunities may need help responding to their circumstances. And that’s okay. Fighting allegations of driving without a license can help people to potentially retain their driving privileges and avoid the other potential penalties associated with the unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle.