What Happens if I’m Caught Driving Without a California Drivers License?

Reader’s Question:

What penalties for a minor driving without drivers license in California?

Jay

Good question Jay.

In California, the penalties for driving without drivers license are fines/court fees and towing and impoundments of the vehicle the unlicensed motorist is driving. The vehicle may also be taken away from you as a forfeiture if you have prior conviction for driving without insurance in California.

It is misdemeanor to drive without a valid drivers license in California. All motorist are required for the driver to carry his license while driving at all times. If you drive without car insurance or revoked license, you may be fined with $1000 for the first conviction.

If a minor drives without a valid license, the minor will be delayed for receiving his driver’s license. Before they can receive or obtain a valid license or permit, the California Department of Motor Vehicle should be able to give the minor the information of what licensing penalties would be.

Normally the county court where you were cited for the conviction will be the one who will assign the fine. You may call the court or other entity listed on the ticket to find out more information on the penalties for driving without valid license in the state of of California.

Goodluck!

MariCAR

Can I Use an International Drivers License in California

I have an international license. Do I need to have a driver license in the US to be able to drive in Los Angeles, CA and if yes, how do I do that?

Cecille

Thank you for asking Cecille.

The California Department of Motor Vehicle states that if you are a visitor in California over 18 years of age and has a valid driver’s license from your country, you may be able to drive in the state of California as long as you maintain your drivers license valid.

But on the other hand, if you get a job or become a resident in the state of California, you will be required to get a California driver license within 10 days. Residency is established by:

1. voting in the California election
2. paying resident tuition
3. filing for the homeowners property tax exemption
4. getting other privileges not extended to nonresidents

If you also have a license from another country, you may be required to take a driving test.

The state of California recognizes a valid driver license that is issued by a foreign jurisdiction of which the license holder is a resident. The International Driving Permit (IDP) is not recognized in California. It is only a transaction of the driver’s information contained in your foreign driver license. Therefore, this cannot be used to drive in the state of California.

If you get caught driving without the California drivers license and only using the IDP, citation may be issued and will be place in the database of Department of Motor Vehicles.

You may check with the DMV to make sure if the license that you have is permitted to drive around the state of California legally. If they tell you that you will need to get a California license, you can also get an information with them on how to obtain it.

Goodluck!

MariCAR