Like in other states, it's unlawful to drive without a valid license in Florida. This article explains what constitutes driving without a license and the penalties for a violation.
Generally, every person who operates a motor vehicle on Florida highways must possess and be able to display a valid driver's license. (Fla. Stat. Ann. § 322.03.)
The failure to display a valid license upon the request of an officer normally results in a driving-without-a-license citation. However, if the driver can produce a driver's license that was valid at the time of the citation, the court clerk can dismiss the ticket and collect a dismissal fee of up to $10 from the driver. If the ticket isn't dismissed, the fine is $30.
Driving without a valid license is a misdemeanor in Florida. A conviction carries a fine of up to $500 and a maximum of 60 days in jail. However, eligible motorists can resolve the citation by obtaining a license and paying a $25 court assessment fee. But this option is only available if the driver has not resolved another citation this way in the past 12 months.
Certain persons, such as non-residents and military personnel, may be exempt from driver's license requirements.
A person who operates a vehicle while on a suspended, restricted, or revoked license may face jail time, fines, and vehicle impoundment. (Fla. Stat. Ann. § 322.34.)
A first driving-while-suspended offense will result in up to 60 days in jail and a maximum $500 fine.
A second conviction will result in up to one year in jail, a maximum $1,000 fine, and vehicle impoundment.
Any third or subsequent offense is considered a felony, subject to a maximum five-year prison sentence and up to $5,000 in fines. If the three offenses occurred within a five-year period, the driver can be deemed a habitual violator, resulting in a five-year license revocation as well as increased prison time and fines.
Florida actually has a separate offense for driving while suspended if the driver did not know his or her license was suspended. The offense is a moving violation, which carries a $60 penalty.
Unlicensed driving carries serious penalties, especially if the offense involves driving on a suspended or revoked license. Anytime you're facing a criminal charge, you should have good legal representation. An experienced defense attorney can explain the law and help you decide on the best course of action.