You must have a valid driver’s license to operate a vehicle in Texas. Each time you drive, you should carry your physical driver’s license with you. If you get pulled over without your license, you could face some consequences. Dive into all the details below to learn more about what happens if you get pulled over and don’t have your license with you.
Getting Pulled Over Without Having Your Driver’s License
Almost all drivers know that sinking feeling of seeing flashing blue lights in their rearview mirror. Your heart speeds up, and you likely dread the thought of getting a ticket. Things can get even more complex if you don’t have your driver’s license with you.
Typically, the process may look something like this:
Initial Stop and Information Request
When you are first pulled over, the police officer will likely approach your vehicle and ask for your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. If you don’t have your license on you, you will need to inform the officer that you do not have it. What happens from here depends on a few different factors.
Identify Verification
One of the main factors that will determine the next steps is the reason why you don’t have your license. If you simply forgot your license at home, you can give the officer your name, address, date of birth, and even your driver’s license number if you know it.
They can use this information to verify your identity. As long as the officer can verify your identity and license status through their computer system, you are not likely to get in any major trouble for not having your license on you.
If the officer is unable to verify your identity, you may be detained until the verification can be completed. Having other types of identification on you, such as a passport or state-issued ID, can help with this process. Most police departments allow officers some discretion in how to handle these situations in which the driver simply forgot their license at home.
Revoked or Suspended License
Some drivers may not have their license on them because it has been revoked or suspended. Similarly, a driver may not have a license at all. These situations are a lot more serious than simply leaving your license at home.
If you are driving on a suspended or revoked license, you are guilty of a Driving While License is Invalid (DWLI) offense. This means that your license will be suspended for an additional period of time. Also, you must pay a $100 reinstatement fee plus any additional outstanding fees and obtain a Financial Responsibility Insurance Certificate (SR-22). This certificate must be maintained for two years following the date of your DWLI conviction.
Those caught driving who have never had a license could face a misdemeanor conviction. This may include fines of up to $200 and potential vehicle impoundment for a first offense. Subsequent offenses could result in higher fines and even jail time, and you will be forced to wait a longer period of time before you can obtain your license.
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Why Is a Driver’s License Required?
Drivers must have a license for several reasons. First, you must pass a knowledge and a road test to obtain your license. This helps prove that you can safely operate a vehicle on the roadway, keeping everyone safe by minimizing the number of car accidents that may occur.
Next, your license is a quick and easy way for a police officer to identify who you are. If you are stopped in Texas, you must identify yourself, and a license makes this a quick and easy process for both you and the officer.
What Happens if I Get Into an Accident With a Driver Who Doesn’t Have a License?
Most accidents in Texas need to be reported, so go ahead and call the police so that they can create an accident report. The responding officer will ask all drivers for their license and other information. If the other driver in the accident doesn’t have a license, they may be issued a citation or even arrested, depending on why they don’t have their license.
You should seek help from a personal injury lawyer who can help you explore all available insurance coverage, including your own uninsured motorist policy, to get the most compensation for your injuries.
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Contact the Texas Car Accident Lawyers at Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Texas, contact the Houston car accident law firm of Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers at (713) 500-5000.
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About the Author Brian White
Brian White earned his J.D. from South Texas College of Law in Houston and is licensed to practice in Texas. He is a Board-Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer.
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