Going to work, picking up your kids, grabbing takeout, or heading to the grocery store — in Pittsburgh, getting behind the wheel is a necessity. If you don’t have a driver’s license and lose your mobility, daily life becomes much more difficult.
Relying on friends or family for rides or having to take buses can create numerous problems. Pennsylvania drivers are required to be licensed, and if you don’t have a valid license but continue to drive anyway, your troubles can escalate dramatically. That’s why having a Pittsburgh criminal traffic violations attorney in your corner is essential.
Accidentally Driving Without Your License in Pennsylvania
Driving without carrying your license is different from driving when you don’t have a valid license. If the police ask to see your driver’s license, and you discover you left it at home by mistake, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania does provide you with a chance to avoid criminal charges. Take your valid driver’s license to an office with issuing authority within 15 days of the police stop.
If your license was valid on the last day of the preceding driver’s license period, and not more than a year has elapsed from the last date for renewal, you will not be criminally charged. You will, however, be fined $25. You also will not be criminally charged if you can prove that at the time of the alleged violation you did have a valid license, but it was lost, stolen or destroyed.
What Pennsylvania Law Says About Criminal Traffic Violations
Every person convicted of a second or subsequent violation of section 1501(a) (relating to drivers required to be licensed) within seven years of the date of commission of the offense preceding the offense for which sentence is to be imposed shall be sentenced to pay a fine of not less than $200 nor more than $1,000 or to imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.
Penalties for Driving Without A License
In Pennsylvania driving without a license is a summary offense, handled in a Magisterial District Court. Penalties include:
- $25 to $200 fine
- You will have a criminal record
Steps To Take If You Are Charged with Driving Without a License
Driving without a valid license in Pennsylvania is a criminal traffic violation and can result in a permanent criminal record. If you’re facing this charge, it’s important to act quickly and strategically. Here are the steps you should take:
1. Do Not Ignore the Charge
Failing to address the citation or arrest can lead to additional penalties, including a warrant for your arrest and possibly being charged with failing to appear in court.
2. Contact a Pittsburgh Criminal Traffic Attorney Immediately
Your first and most important step is hiring an experienced traffic defense lawyer. Prosecutors are unlikely to negotiate with you directly, and attempting to handle your case alone can result in more severe penalties.
3. Gather All Relevant Documentation
Bring any documents related to your license status, including past suspensions, renewals, or attempts to reinstate your license. Your attorney will use this information to build your defense, especially if your situation involves driving with a suspended license.
4. Let Your Attorney Handle Communication with Prosecutors
An experienced attorney will have established relationships with local prosecutors and understand how the courts operate. They can work to negotiate reduced or dismissed charges based on the circumstances of your case.
5. Prepare for Possible Outcomes
If a conviction is unavoidable, your attorney can advocate for reduced penalties or alternative sentencing options. Depending on the charge, your lawyer may explore options such as ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition) or other diversion programs, when available.
Questions? Contact Our Pittsburgh Driving Without a License Attorneys
Your rights are at stake and you need the best defense to keep them. Our team at Worgul, Sarna & Ness will fight using the strongest defense available to get your Driving Without a License charge reduced or dismissed so you can move on with your life.
To schedule a consultation with us, call us at (412) 281-2146 or send us an email at advice@pittsburghcriminalattorney.com.