What Happens if I am Caught Driving Without a License in NYS?

Driving without a license is illegal, whether you simply forgot your wallet at home, or you were knowingly driving with a suspended or revoked license. No matter your situation, if you are facing charges for driving without a license in NYS, you must read on and reach out to our experienced New York traffic violations attorney today. Here are some of the questions you may have:

What is the difference between driving without a license and aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle?

If you knew or should have known that your license was suspended or revoked and you drove anyway, you will probably face an aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle charge. If you did now know about an issue with your license, however, you may face a simple traffic violation. For an aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle charge, you will most likely either receive a misdemeanor or a felony, which is why you need an experienced attorney on your side.

What happens if I am caught driving without a license?

There are various penalties you may face, depending on the circumstances of your situation. Those penalties are as follows:

• For a simple infraction: A fine between $75-$300 and imprisonment of up to 15 days (though imprisonment is highly unlikely). A simple infraction is when you, for example, can prove that you simply left your license at home by accident.
• Aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree: This is a misdemeanor that comes with a potential $500 fine and imprisonment of up to 30 days.
• Aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the second degree: This means that you were already caught driving without your license after receiving a suspension in the last 18 months, having 3 or more unanswered suspensions for failing to appear or pay a fine, your previous suspension was due to a DUI, or refusing to take a chemical test. This is a misdemeanor that comes with high fines and incarceration.
• Aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the first degree: This is a Class E felony that comes with a potential $5,000 fine and incarceration or probation of up to 4 years.

Regardless of your circumstances, if you are facing an AUO in NYS, you must retain the services of a knowledgeable Rockland County traffic violations attorney today. Our firm is here to help.

CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED ROCKLAND COUNTY FIRM

Kevin T. Conway has over 30 years of experience as a Spring Valley criminal attorney handling DUI, DWI, traffic violations, violent crimes, sex crimes, illegal gun possession, shoplifting, and juvenile crimes. Attorney Conway is also experienced in commercial law matters, zoning law, and estate planning. If you need a Rockland County criminal lawyer, contact our Spring Valley office for a free consultation.