Did you know that with 15.7 million licensed drivers, Florida is third in the US, behind California and Texas in the number of licensed drivers?
However, driving with an expired license in Florida, including Tampa, is a severe offense that can result in many consequences.
Every driver needs to know what happens if they let their license expire and the legal consequences if they drive with an expired license in Florida. Below, we’ll discuss the various penalties for license problems, mainly when your license expires, while shedding light on the laws in Florida that govern this matter.
Expired License in Florida: Why Does It Happen?
Before we carry on with the penalties, it’s crucial to understand why some people might find themselves driving with an expired license.
Life gets busy, and sometimes, we overlook the renewal of our Tampa driver’s license. Common reasons include the following:
- Simple forgetfulness
- Financial constraints
- Simply lack of awareness about the expiration date
Regardless of the reason, driving with an expired license can have significant repercussions.
The Different Penalties for an Expired License
So, what happens if you’re caught driving in Florida with an expired license? Let’s break down the potential penalties and consequences that you may face:
Traffic Citations and Fines
If you get pulled over in Tampa, and the police officer finds out your driver’s license has expired, you might get a traffic ticket. The amount of money you’ll have to pay in fines can change based on a few things.
- How long has your license been expired: The longer the expiration, the bigger the fine
- Your driving record
- The reason you got pulled over
All of the above can affect the amount you have to pay in fines.
Financial Problems
Driving when you have an expired license can cost you a lot of money. On top of the fine, there are usually other fees you have to pay, like the following:
- Court fees
- Administrative costs
This can make the total bill even more significant.
Points on Your Driving Record
In addition to the immediate fines, driving when you have an expired license can add points to your driving record. Recording too many points on your record can lead to your insurance company issuing higher premiums and potential license suspension in the future.
License Suspension
If your license problems persist and you continue driving in Florida with an expired license, your driving privileges can be suspended. The duration of the suspension can vary. You must stick to the specific requirements to reinstate your request once it’s suspended.
Criminal Charges
In some cases, particularly if you have a history of driving with an expired license or other license-related offenses, you could face criminal charges. This can lead to more severe penalties, including the following:
- More fines
- A probation
- Even jail time
This is a serious matter, and the consequences must be understood.
Increased Insurance Rates
Even if you manage to avoid criminal charges, your insurance rates will likely increase if you’re caught driving with an expired license. Insurance companies view this as risky behavior and may consider you a higher-risk driver, leading to higher premiums.
Getting Legal Help
Talking to a lawyer is a good idea if you’re in this situation. They can help in the following ways:
- Understand your rights,
- Deal with the legal stuff
- Figure out if there’s a way to lower the fines
- Fix the issues that led to the expired license
In a nutshell, if you get a ticket for having an expired license in Tampa, it’s a situation that can cost you a lot of money. Knowing and understanding the following:
- What affects the fine amount
- Understanding the financial impact
Legal help can help you make better decisions to deal with the problem and protect your rights as a driver. So, if this happens to you, don’t wait too long to take care of it.
Laws in Florida Regarding Expired Licenses
Understanding the laws in Florida regarding expired licenses is crucial to avoid legal trouble. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Expiration Date
In Florida, driver’s licenses typically expire every eight years. There are some exceptions. For example, certain individuals, such as those aged 80 years and older, must renew their licenses every six years.
It’s important to check the expiration date on your license and renew it in a timely manner.
Grace Period
Florida offers a grace period of up to 18 months for renewing an expired driver’s license. If you renew it within this period, you will not have to retake the driving test. However, renewing your license as soon as possible is best to avoid any potential legal issues.
Renewal Options
You can renew your Florida driver’s license in various ways. For example, the following ways:
- Online Renewal
- Renew by mail
- Renew in person at a local Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office
When renewing, ensure you have the necessary documentation, such as proof of identity and residency.
Settling in Florida With a Valid Out-of-State License
When you relocate to Florida, holding a valid out-of-state driver’s license, it’s crucial to note that you need to acquire a Florida driver’s license within a 30-day window of officially establishing residency.
This legal obligation ensures that you are in compliance with the state’s regulations and enables you to fully embrace your new life in the Sunshine State, enjoying all the privileges and benefits that come with being a Florida resident.
Don’t Risk Driving With an Expired License!
As discussed above, you can see that driving with an expired license in Florida, particularly in Tampa, can lead to various penalties and complications. The consequences are significant. It’s crucial to know the laws in Florida and make it a priority to renew your license on time.
If you find yourself facing traffic tickets or any legal issues related to traffic violations in Tampa, don’t hesitate to take action. Don’t let fines and legal troubles overwhelm you; contact us today to protect your rights and find a way to navigate the complexities of traffic law.
CONTACT TAMPA TRAFFIC TICKET ATTORNEY
RHINO Lawyers can help and guide you through a system molded by law enforcement, judges, and lawyers for decades. Having won cases for our clients in similar circumstances, our criminal defense team knows what it takes to fight on your behalf.
Let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at (844) RHINO-77.
