To promote road safety, state laws prohibit individuals from driving without a license. While failing to have your license with you is a minor offense, violators may face severe legal consequences if they have never gotten a license or theirs has been revoked. Consider the helpful guide below on ways you can lose your driving privileges, the penalties for operating vehicles without a permit, and instances when you might need to hire an experienced lawyer.

How Can You Lose Your License?

Grounds for suspending or revoking licenses in Missouri include: 

• Refusal to agree to a blood alcohol content (BAC) test 

• A DWI conviction 

• Failure to attend a court hearing 

• A conviction for stealing gasoline 

• Incompetency to drive 

• Unpaid court debts

• Failure to report an accident to the police 

• Failure to pay child support.

Your license will also be suspended when you accumulate at least eight points on your driving record within 18 months. These "points" are accumulated when you commit certain traffic offenses, such as speeding in a school or construction zone. Moreover, your license may be revoked when you reach 12 points within one year, 18 points within two years, or 24 points within three years. When you're facing these consequences, avoid committing more traffic offenses and contact your lawyer before paying a ticket.

What Happens When You Are Caught Driving Without a License?

Individuals caught driving without a valid license must pay fines, and repeat offenders may serve jail time. Points will also be added to their record each time you are pulled over without a valid license. 

Unfortunately, if you forget to bring your license and get pulled over, you will be treated as unlicensed and will likely receive a citation. To avoid criminal charges, you must bring your valid license to court with you.

Why Should You Never Drive With a Revoked or Suspended License?

Driving without a license due to a suspension or revocation is considered a misdemeanor on the first and second offenses and a felony for third and subsequent violations. Penalties range from fines of $500-$10,000 and 1-4 years of jail time. Offenders also immediately receive 12 points on their driving record. If you want to avoid serious charges, consider speaking with an experienced lawyer who will be able to help you fight these charges and consequences. 

The expert attorneys at Kirksey Law Firm LLC in Bolivar, MO, will go above and beyond to fight for your rights when it comes to traffic tickets. You can look forward to receiving first-rate legal representation, whether you need a family law attorney, divorce lawyer, or personal injury attorney. Schedule your consultation by calling their office today at (417) 326-4529 or sending a message through their website.