Every day, people across Los Angeles face an impossible choice: do I drive even though my license was suspended, or do I risk losing my job? Most people in this situation don’t want to break the law, but they may feel forced to. If pulled over for driving on a suspended or revoked license, you will face criminal charges and potential jail time. You need to speak to a lawyer.
At the Simmrin Law Group we have seen firsthand what it’s like to go through this kind of situation. We believe that California’s driving laws are neither fair nor just. That’s why we’ve dedicated ourselves to defending anyone who has been pulled over and arrested. Don’t risk jail time, fines, and an even longer license suspension period. Let us give you a free consultation. Fill out the form to the right or call us at 310-997-4688 and get your free consultation today.
When is it illegal to drive on a suspended or revoked license in Los Angeles?
It’s almost always illegal, but there are exceptions.
California has a single state law that criminalizes driving with either a suspended or revoked license. Under Vehicle Code Section 14601, you are considered guilty if:
You drove any motor vehicle while your California drivers license was suspended or revoked, and
You knew your driving privileges were suspended or revoked.
Many people never realize that their license had been suspended. This happens when the DMV sends out a notice to the address they have on record for you, but that address is not current or they have it incorrect—or if the notice was not received for any reason. If you didn’t know your license was valid, there is a strong chance you can get the charges against you dismissed.
Another exception involves emergency situations. Depending on what happened, if you needed to use a car because of a true emergency and there was no one else to drive you, you may be able to get your case dismissed.
What is the difference between a license being “suspended” or “revoked”?
It’s often said that “a suspended license is bad and a revoked license is worse.” This is because a suspended license usually comes with a simple way of getting your license back after a period of time, while a revoked license is completely canceled by the DMV. In practice, that means it will take longer to get your license back if it was revoked, and there are a lot more conditions you have to meet.
Here’s a closer look at the differences:
A suspended license is usually only suspended for a set period of time, such as 6 months or 1 year. Once the suspension period is over, you can apply to get it reinstated. There may be other conditions you have to meet as well—such as enrolling in traffic school—but, in general, you should be able to get the license back once the time is up. Getting it back is also easier, because you simply have to present documentation at the DMV and pay a reinstatement fee.
A revoked license does not come with a firm end date. License revocation is often described as “permanent,” but in reality there is usually a way to get driving privileges again—it’s just harder. You’ll need to complete your entire sentence and probation period, or other complex requirements set by the court. This usually takes years. Even then, you have to start all over as if you are applying for a first-time drivers license. That means taking a written test and a road test, and paying the testing fees. Only then can you potentially get your license back.
Although revocation is much more severe, the penalties for driving without a valid license are similar regardless of whether it was suspended or revoked.
What are the penalties for driving on a suspended or revoked license in Los Angeles?
Driving with either a suspended or revoked license is a misdemeanor. The penalties depend on why the license was revoked or suspended in the first place. These penalties include:
License was revoked/suspended for DUI
10 days to 6 months in jail
Fine of $300 to $1,000
License was revoked/suspended for refusing a DUI chemical test (such as a breath test)
Up to 6 months in jail
Fine of $300 to $1,000
License was revoked/suspended for reckless driving or other specific criminal offenses
5 days to 6 months in jail
Fine of $300 to $1,000
License was revoked/suspended because of addiction, mental or physical condition, or being a negligent operator
5 days to 6 months in jail
Fine of $300 to $1,000
License was revoked/suspended due to status as a “habitual traffic offender”
30 days in jail
$1,000 fine
License was revoked/suspended for any other reason
Up to 6 months in jail
Fine of $300 to $1,000
What defenses can I use for driving on a suspended/revoked license?
Depending on the circumstances, the strongest defense may be that you legitimately didn’t know your license was not valid. We can help you determine whether you have the legal ground to use this defense.
Other defenses may include:
You were in the car but you weren’t driving
The suspension or revocation itself was not valid
You had the right to drive under a restricted license, and police were mistaken
Someone else stole your license and they were the one caught driving
In many cases, these defenses can make the charges disappear or they can win your case before a judge. However, they only work if they are presented skilfully and with evidence to back them up. Do not face the courtroom alone. You need to talk to a lawyer.
Talk to a Los Angeles Suspended License Lawyer for Free
When a suspended license is involved, one traffic stop can chase you for years. You deserve professional legal help. Let the Simmrin Law Group give you a FREE consultation and start fighting your case. Fill out the form to the right or call us at 310-997-4688 and get your free consultation today.