What is the Law In Virginia on Driving Without a License?
“It is against the law for any person in Virginia to drive any motor vehicle on any highway in the Commonwealth until such person has applied for a driver’s license, passed the examination, and obtained a driver’s license, nor unless the license is valid.”
Va. Code § 46.2-300
Should I just Plead Guilty or Pay the Ticket?
Driving without a license in Virginia is a Class 2 misdemeanor. A class 2 misdemeanor holds a punishment of up to six months in jail, up to 90 days of license suspension, and up to a fine of $1,000. A second or subsequent violation of this section is a Class 1 misdemeanor which could mean up to 12 months in jail, up to 12 months license suspension, and a fine up to $2,500 in fines.
Further, this is a criminal conviction, which under current Virginia law, cannot be expunged or sealed.
In other words, you should not just plead guilty or pay the ticket that you received. You should fight this charge as it carries long-lasting consequences.
Should I get an attorney?
Yes. A criminal record cannot be expunged in the state of Virginia so if you are convicted of this charge, it can have an impact on several different parts of your life from security clearances, immigration issues, to job applications. Contact us today for a consultation.
