In our modern world, many people are in a rush to get from one place to another. However, rushing things can lead us to all sorts of scenarios we might not have been in before, such as forgetting our driver’s license at home.
In this situation, it’s essential for individuals to know what to do and how to proceed to avoid getting fined or suffering other penalties. In Florida, it is illegal to drive without a driver’s license on you, but some exceptions allow you to carry it digitally. Here is everything you need to know about Florida driver’s license requirements, what happens if you don’t have it on your person, how to proceed, renewing or replacing your driver’s license, and some critical factors to consider about digital driver’s licenses:
Florida Driver’s License Requirements
To obtain a valid driver’s license in Florida, individuals can apply for it as soon as they are 16 years old, complete a drug and alcohol course, pass a vision and hearing test, and pass a Class E knowledge and driving skills test.
Individuals must provide clear and relevant identification documents and hold a learner’s permit for at least 12 months or until they turn 18. Generally, when you drive with a learner’s permit, you cannot be convicted of any traffic violations as long as you haven’t passed 12 months since receiving the temporary permit.
Under Florida Statutes Section 322.15, vehicle drivers must have a valid driver’s license in their possession while driving and present it to law enforcement officers when requested.
What Happens If You Drive Without Your License?
Suppose you are driving without a license on your person in Florida. In that case, you may face consequences, such as a fine or citation, as driving without a driver’s license on your person in this state is considered a correctable offense as long as you possess a valid driver’s license.
However, you must later prove that you have a valid driver’s license and pay some processing fees. If you drive a vehicle without being licensed, you can be arrested and charged with a second-degree misdemeanor criminal offense, which might mean penalties such as a $500 fine and 60 days in jail. Driving without a license in Florida can result in other consequences, especially if it leads to car accidents.
Digital Driver’s Licenses
Florida has seen an increase in the number of issued digital driver’s licenses (mDL). The mDL can be stored in your mobile device to prove that you have a valid driver’s license. You can use the FL mDL app issued by the DHSMV to store your digital information and present it to law enforcement officers or businesses as a form of identification. However, it’s important to consider that not all entities or businesses accept mDL identification, which is why you should always carry a physical license as a backup.
What To Do If You Forget Your License
When you are caught driving without your driver’s license on you, it is imperative to prove that you had a valid driver’s license when the incident occurred to have your charges dismissed or reduced. The consequences of not having your license on your person can be escalated depending on how you act. Explain your situation to the officer in a calm and respectful manner.
Provide any other acceptable forms of identification such as military ID, passport, or state-issued identification card. If you are near your home, retrieve the license to present it to the officer.
If you are far from home and can’t do this, you may receive a traffic ticket. Go to the Clerk of Court in your county to showcase your license and pay the processing fees to avoid further fines or charges.
Renewing and Replacing Driver’s Licenses
According to Florida Statutes§322.03, driving without a valid driver’s license, as in driving with an expired license for over 30 days or less, can be convicted with a non-moving violation, resulting in fines and penalties depending on various factors.
This is why it is crucial always to ensure that you have a valid driver’s license at all times. To renew or replace your driver’s license in Florida, regardless if it was stolen, lost, or expired, you can do the following:
- Visit Florida’s DHSMV website.
- Gather required documents or contact the DHSMV directly to determine what documents are required to renew or replace a driver’s license. Usually, you will need proof of identity and residency and to provide your social security number.
- Schedule an appointment with the DHSMV office.
- Visit the DHSMV office with the required documents, complete the forms, pay the applicable fees, and pass a vision test if required or provide a new photograph for your new driver’s license.
Driving without a valid driver’s license in Florida or without having it on your person can result in various penalties, fines, and other consequences. It is essential to ensure the validity of your driver’s license at all times and carry on your person.
If you have been injured in a car accident by a driver with a suspended or revoked license, you may have strong legal grounds to file a personal injury claim. Seek justice with experienced injury lawyers in Florida.
An attorney with Tucker Law can help you understand the legal complexities surrounding car accident claims and personal injury. Contact Tucker Law for a free consultation on your case and pursue justice.
