Is it an offense to drive without a license in Texas?
Yes, Chapter 521 of the Texas Transportation Code requires all persons who operate a motor vehicle on a highway to carry a valid driver’s license. Violation of this provision results in a misdemeanor charge. Multiple or repeated offenses will lead to progressively more severe consequences. The penalties for violations are:
- A fine of no greater than $200 for first time offenses
- For a second violation within one year of the first offense, a fine ranging from $25 to up to $200 is imposed
- A third conviction within one year of the second offense will result in a fine of up to $500, along with jail time of no less than 72 hours and no greater than 6 months
Are there any other consequences besides a fine?
Persons who are charged with driving without a license in Texas may have to pay other related fees and costs. For example, the state of Texas has instituted a Driver Responsibility Program which is mandatory for certain vehicle-related violations. This program entails a surcharge due yearly for up to three years. For the offense of driving without a license, the surcharge is $100 a year.
Restrictions may be placed on the driving privileges of the offender, such as having an existing license revoked. Driving without a license is a different offense from driving with a suspended or revoked license. They are both misdemeanors, although driving with a suspended license is generally a more serious offense with greater penalties.
Finally, some judiciary departments require that the defendant’s vehicle be towed and impounded, and the defendant would have to shoulder those costs as well.