Driving Without a Valid License (or Expired Illinois Driver's License)
Illinois Driver Licensing Law:
The law says that it is illegal to drive without a valid Illinois driver's license. See 625 ILCS 5/6-101.
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You are in violation whether your license is expired or you never had a driver's license.
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If you fail to keep your drivers' license in your vehicle, you may be guilty of this offense.
- The law provides that you must present a valid Illinois driver's license card to an officer who requests it.
Penalties for driving without a license:
- If you are convicted of driving on an expired license, the Illinois Secretary of State will suspend your driver's license. See 625 ILCS 5/6-206
- On the other hand, if you never had a license, a conviction for driving without a license will cause your driving privileges to be suspended (i.e., you will have to wait to apply for a license).
- Driving without a valid Illinois driver's license is a Class B misdemeanor for which you could be sentenced to 6 months in jail and a fine of $1,500.
- Driving without a license and without proof of insurance can cause your car to be seized by the police and impounded.
Driving without a valid driver's license tickets are very common in Lake County traffic courts, including Park City, Mundelein & Round Lake Branch Court. You should consult with an attorney about your ticket.
