Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or exploring all the Metroplex has to offer, you must have a driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle on Texas roads. Making sure that drivers meet certain minimum requirements by passing a driver’s license test is one of the ways that Texas keeps its roads and highways safe.
If someone drives without a license in Texas, they could face fines of up to $200 for a first offense. Penalties increase with repeat offenses. Violators could have their car impounded or even face jail time.
Our personal injury team focuses on personal injury law, and many car accidents involve motorists driving without a license. We want community members to understand their legal rights if an unlicensed driver hurts them in a car accident.
Who Needs a Driver License in Texas?
Dallas residents need a Texas license to operate a motor vehicle on public roads. If someone moves to Texas from out of state, they have 90 days to exchange their old license for a Texas one. Workers who drive non-commercial farm or military vehicles can use public roads without a license, but only for short distances and in the course of their duties.
Getting a Texas Driver’s License
The specific process of getting a driver’s license depends on your age. You must always verify your legal identity, residency, and lawful presence in the U.S., get thumbprinted, and pass a vision test. You must also present proof of insurance for your vehicle or sign an affidavit stating you don’t own one.
If you’re under 25 and have never been licensed, you must complete an age-appropriate driver education course before applying. You’ll also need to pass a written knowledge exam and road test.
If you’re under 18, you’ll receive a provisional license extending your limited driving privileges. Until your 18th birthday, you are not permitted to drive between 12:00 AM and 5:00 AM, use wireless communication devices behind the wheel, or transport more than one non-family passenger under 18.
Driver licenses expire every eight years after you turn 18. You can renew your license over the phone, online, or by mail in some cases. But you must visit a DMV office in person every 16 years for a new photo and vision test.
Driver License Suspension and Revocation in Texas
Texas can suspend or revoke a driver’s license using any of the following legal or administrative processes:
- Mandatory suspension – The Texas driver handbook lists 20 offenses that carry an automatic license suspension. They include DWI, drug offenses, street racing, failing to stop for school buses, and driving with a fake license.
- Administrative suspension – The Texas Department of Public Safety can suspend or revoke a driver’s license if someone causes a serious accident or habitually violates traffic laws. However, the driver must have the opportunity to attend a hearing first.
- Suspension under 21 – If someone under 21 is convicted of an alcohol or drug offense, their driving privileges will automatically be suspended.
- Suspension under 18 – If a minor driver is convicted of two traffic offenses in 12 months, the Department of Public Safety can call an administrative suspension hearing.
- Administrative License Revocation (ALR) – A driver’s license can be revoked if someone fails or declines a blood alcohol or breathalyzer test.
- Court-ordered suspension, revocation, and cancellation – If a court finds a driver is mentally incapacitated, chemically dependent, or delinquent on child support payments, it can order a license suspension.
Who Can Be Denied a Driver License in Texas?
The Department of Public Safety can refuse to issue a license to someone if:
- They can’t operate a vehicle safely due to a physical or mental disability
- They drove off without paying at a gas station
- They bought alcohol for a minor
- They committed a drug offense
- They aren’t paying child support
- They failed to appear in court or pay a fine under certain circumstances
The Strict Laws in Texas for Driving Without a License
Texas defines two specific offenses related to unlicensed driving:
- Driving without a license – A driver uses a vehicle on public roads without ever obtaining a license or after their license has expired.
- Driving while license invalid (DWLI) – A driver uses a vehicle on public roads after their license was suspended or revoked.
Consequences You’ll Face for Driving Without a License
Simple unlicensed driving can be an administrative offense to a Class A misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances and number of violations over 12 months. The first offense carries a $200 maximum fine. If the unlicensed driver caused an injurious or fatal accident, they could face a $4,000 maximum fine and up to one year in jail.
DWLI offenses are always misdemeanors, though the specific class and penalties will depend on the circumstances:
- Class C misdemeanor DWLI – If it’s the driver’s first conviction of driving without a license, and there are no aggravating factors, they’ll face a $500 maximum fine on conviction.
- Class B misdemeanor DWLI – If the driver is uninsured, had a prior DWLI conviction, or had their license suspended due to an alcohol-related offense, they could face a $2,000 maximum fine and up to 180 days in jail.
- Class A misdemeanor DWLI – If the driver was uninsured and caused an accident resulting in injury or death, they could face a $4,000 maximum fine, up to one year in jail, and an extended license suspension.
Get Legal Advice from Kraft & Associates’ Skilled Car Accident Attorneys
If an unlicensed driver injured you or someone you love, trust the Dallas, TX car accident attorneys of Kraft & Associates, Attorneys at Law, P.C., to guide you through your legal options. We’ve served the Metroplex since 1971 and will evaluate all angles of your case and help you understand your legal options.
Our commitment to what we do is what sets us apart. Some of our staff have worked with us for over 25 years, and we’re always searching for ways to give back to local communities. Our consultations are free. You won’t owe us a cent unless we secure the compensation you need. Call (214) 999-9999 today to speak with one of our attorneys.
