Most people need to drive to work, school and other locations to support their life and their family. This can lead some people to drive without a license or to drive with a suspended license. What are the consequences of driving without a valid license in Kentucky?
Why might the state suspend a person’s driver’s license?
Most people think of driver’s license suspension after drunk driving charges, but there are many different reasons that the state may suspend a license. These include:
- Driving violations—Reckless driving, driving without insurance and many other driving-related charges could leave you without a license. Even less severe violations can add up over time if you accumulate enough points on your license.
- Drunk driving—Even on first-time charges of driving under the influence (DUI), the court will suspend a Kentucky driver’s license for six months. Depending on your criminal record, you may lose your license for up to five years.
- Driving without a valid license—Driving with a suspended license or without a license can lead to further time without the ability to drive legally.
- Other legal concerns—While they are not related to your driving, a variety of different legal issues can leave your license suspended. This includes failure to pay child support and failure to pay fees related to traffic tickets or other fines.
What can you do if your license is suspended?
After a license suspension, you might not be able to get to work, drive to school or pursue other necessary travel. Your need for transportation may tempt you to drive, but this can increase the length of your license suspension. Depending on the reason for your suspension, though, you may have options.
If your license suspension happened because you did not pay a fine, you may be able to reinstate your license after paying that fine.
During a suspension, you may also be able to get a hardship license if the loss of your license is a hardship on you or your family. This will allow you to travel to specific, necessary locations.
If you face a license suspension, you may want to speak to an attorney about your options.