If you are in a hurry, you might hop in the car without your license. However, have you ever wondered what would happen if you got pulled over without your license? You should always keep your driver’s license with you whenever you are operating a vehicle.
Keep reading below to learn more about what might happen if you are caught driving without your license in St. Louis, MO.
Reasons for Driving Without a License
The reason you’re without your license may significantly affect the outcome. Common reasons that drivers don’t have their license on them include:
Forgot Their License at Home
If you simply forgot your license at home, you are not likely to face any serious penalties. You may need to provide the police officer with your:
- Full legal name
- License number
- Social Security number
- Other identifying information
Once the officer verifies your identity and that you’re properly licensed, it’s up to their discretion—you may get a warning or a citation for failing to display your license, since Missouri law still requires you to carry and present it on demand.
Willful Driving Without a License
Some people choose to drive even though they know they don’t have a license. In such cases, a driver’s license may be suspended or revoked.
Driving without a license in Missouri is a serious offense. A first offense is a misdemeanor, but subsequent offenses can result in felony charges. Additionally, if you hurt someone in a car accident while driving without a license, you could face serious criminal charges as well as civil liability for the victim’s damages.
General Traffic Stop Process When You Don’t Have Your License
The police officer who pulls you over generally has broad discretion on how to handle a traffic stop when you don’t have your license on you. Being cooperative and polite can go a long way toward getting off with a warning in these cases. Generally, a traffic stop will follow these general steps when you don’t have your license on you.
Initial Traffic Stop
When you are first pulled over, the officer will approach your vehicle and ask for your information. This usually includes your:
- Driver’s license
- Proof of insurance
- Vehicle registration
If you do not have your physical license on you, the officer may request additional information. They may need your full name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number. They will use this information to confirm your identity and verify your driver’s license status.
Information / Database Check
The officer may return to their vehicle to check your information using their in-car computer system. They might also check with dispatch for additional identity checks. If they are able to confirm your identity, they will typically make the decision whether or not to issue you a citation for not having your license on you.
Additional Verification
If the officer is unable to verify your identity, you may be detained until the identity verification process is completed. This could require a visit to the police station or providing more details that can be used to verify your identity. In rare cases, you could be placed under arrest if you are unwilling to provide enough personal information for the police officer to identify you.
Contact Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation With a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer
If you were hit by an unlicensed or suspended driver, we’ll explain your options, deal with the insurance company, and help protect your right to compensation.
For more information, contact the best personal injury lawyer in St. Louis, MO at Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers. We proudly serve all throughout Missouri, including St. Louis County, and we have offices in St. Louis, Chesterfield, Clayton, and Creve Coeur.
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – St. Louis Office
1010 Market Street, Suite 1605
St. Louis, Missouri
(636) 519-0085
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Chesterfield Office
400 Chesterfield Center Suite 600
Chesterfield, MO 63017
(636) 999-9587
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Creve Coeur Office
11628 Old Ballas Rd, Suite 320
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
(314) 557-2869
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Clayton Office
7733 Forsyth Blvd, Suite 1100
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 804-4569
