Driving Without a License

News websites often trumpet headlines such as "Celebrity arrested for driving without a license." But what does driving without a license (DWL) mean? It can refer to a range of activities -- from forgetting to take your license in the car with you (typically a minor infraction) to driving while a license is suspended (which may incur jail time if the suspension was for something serious such as a DUI or reckless driving).   Below you will find state-by-state laws for the various DWL scenarios. We also discuss who is exempt from licensing requirements and whether undocumented immigrants can obtain a license in your state.