With driving comes great responsibilities and legal requirements. Once you are behind the wheel, you need to stay focused all the time to avoid any mishaps on road. If you are driving, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the laws and rules that are critical to driving. Having a valid driver’s license is the basic requirement. Driving without a license but with a learner’s permit can have serious legal repercussions.
In this article we will be discussing in details about the consequences that u can face if you are caught driving without a license but a permit in California.
What is a learner’s permit?
In California, a provisional permit or a learner’s permit is issued to individuals who are between the ages of 15½ and 18 years of age. It is for them who are learning to drive and can practice driving under specific restrictions. A driver having a permit is not allowed to drive without a licensed driver in the car at any point of time.
Consequences of driving without a license
You must possess a valid driving license in order to legally operate a motor vehicle. Driving without a license is a serious legal offense and can lead to penalties, vehicle impoundment or suspension of driving privileges.
Penalties: Under CVC 12500, driving without a license is a ‘wobbler’ offense. If caught driving without a valid license, you could be fined as much as $250 or could be sent to jail for up to 6 months. If you have prior record for driving violations, punishments could be more severe and fines can go up to $1,000.
Vehicle impoundment: If you fail to present your driving license when asked to do so, law enforcement officers can impound your vehicle, particularly when you cannot secure a licensed driver to take over. The period of impoundment can last up to 30 days.
Suspension of Driving Privileges: A conviction for driving without license can result in suspension of driving privilege for a specific period of time. Operating a motor vehicle while suspended can revoke or even cancel your driving privilege.
Exceptions
A driver can drive without a license but a permit during his practice driving sessions, under the guidance and supervision of a licensed driver in the car.
Conclusion
Driving without a license is a punishable offence in California and can have significant legal consequences. A permit holder can practice driving a car but under specific restrictions and proper guidance of a licensed driver inside a car. Before driving, be aware of the legal regulations to ensure safety on road.