What If You Do Not Have Your License When You Get a DUI?

If you do not have a driver’s license when you are arrested for DUI in Oklahoma, you could face serious penalties. Not only will you be fighting the driving under the influence charges, but also you will likely be charged with driving without a license.

Is Driving Without a License a Crime, and What Are the Penalties?

Yes, driving without a license in Oklahoma is a misdemeanor crime. You can be imprisoned for 30 days to one year, depending on your situation. The fines also vary from $50.00 to $5,000.00 depending on whether you do not have a license because:

• You never passed a driver’s test or paid fees;
• You have an expired license;
• Your driving privileges were cancelled or denied;
• Your license was suspended; or
• Your license was revoked.

47 O.S. §§ 6-303(A)-(C). If you do not have a license at all because you never applied at the DPS, passed a driver’s test, or paid fees, then the penalties are less severe. If your driving privileges were revoked or cancelled for some reason, then the penalties are more severe. The most severe penalties are imposed if your license was suspended because of a DUI charge but you decided to drive anyway.

Finally, if your license was suspended or revoked, the DPS will extend the period of suspension for several more months if you drive on the suspended license.

Getting a License or Getting Your License Reinstated

Before you decide to drive without a license, look into getting a license or having yours reinstated. If your license was revoked and the revocation period has passed, then you should be able to get the license back (after you meet a few DPS requirements).

The DPS also has helpful information on its website about applying for a driver’s license or transferring a license from another state. Look into the requirements and how to meet them. If you are unable to obtain a license due to medical conditions or other restrictions, think again about driving yourself – you could face strict penalties for driving without a license.

Have you been charged with a DUI while driving without a license in Oklahoma? Clint Patterson, Esq., of Patterson Law Firm, a former Tulsa prosecutor, uses his trial experience and expert-level knowledge of DUI science to defend drivers. He has the experience and the insight to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your case. To schedule a case evaluation, visit Patterson Law Firm online or call Clint’s office at (918) 550-9175.