A law enforcement officer might issue a citation for driving without a license in Marietta, Georgia if a driver’s license is not valid. There are several reasons a license may not be valid, including:
- Cancellation – Occurs when the DDS does not have the required or correct information.
- Revocation – DDS terminated or withdrew driving privileges for a prescribed length of time. At the expiration of the revocation period, you may apply for a new license once you satisfy the requirements. You will be required to re-take the driving tests.
- Suspension – DDS temporarily withdraws your driving privilege for a specific period. At the expiration of the suspension period, you may apply for reinstatement once all requirements are satisfied.
- CDL Disqualifications & Serious Disqualifications – When the driver is convicted of two or more serious traffic violations while operating a vehicle other than a CMV. The driver becomes disqualified if there is a revocation or suspension of driving privileges.
It’s a good idea to be aware of your license status before getting behind the wheel. Because if a prosecutor proves any of these situations in court, then you could end up with a misdemeanor penalty on your record. You may also be required to pay a minimum fine of $500, spend up to two days in jail, and incur a six-month driving license suspension.
However, these are just the basic penalties. You may incur additional, harsher consequences if you opt to handle the violation without an experienced Marietta Traffic Lawyer to guide you. Other possible penalties include longer suspension time, paying more fees, and attending mandatory defensive driving classes.
What Are My Options for Handling a No License Citation?
You may be able to resolve your citation for driving with no license in Georgia by paying your ticket online on the Marietta Municipal Court website.
However, if you decide to fight the charges against you and plead not guilty, you will have to show up to court as directed on your citation. You will likely be on the calendar at Marietta Municipal Court if an officer wrote you a citation within city limits.
But, if you fail to pay your ticket and miss your court date, the State Court places you in a Failure to Appear (FTA) status. The state then issues a bench warrant for your arrest and contacts Georgia Driver Services to suspend your license. And, to resolve your FTA, you are looking at more fines, court dates, and possible jail time – in addition to your original citation.
Hiring an Experienced Marietta Traffic Lawyer
Your best option for fighting a no license charge in Georgia is to speak with an experienced Marietta traffic lawyer. Not only can they help you avoid unnecessary penalties, but they may be able to reduce the charges against you or even get them dismissed.
Schedule a free consult to find out how attorney Erin Gerstenzang can help you fight a no license charge at Marietta Municipal Court.