When your driver’s license is suspended, it means the state has temporarily stripped you of your right to operate a motor vehicle. If you get behind the wheel while your license is suspended, it can lead to harsh penalties, including hefty fines and possible jail time. Please continue reading to learn the potential consequences of driving during the suspension in Texas and how our experienced Houston Criminal Defense Attorneys can help protect your rights.
Is Driving With a Suspended License a Crime in Texas?
Yes, operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license is a serious criminal offense in Texas. This crime is usually charged as Driving While License Invalid (DWLI). It’s important to understand that this offense applies even when the motorist was unaware of the suspension or revocation. A DWLI is classified as a Class B misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to 180 days behind bars and $500-$2,000 in fines. However, it can be charged as a Class C or enhanced to a Class A charge depending on an offender’s criminal history.
If you have prior convictions for DWLI, the charge will likely be raised to a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to one year behind bars and a $4,000 fine. It should be noted that insurance companies often classify motorists as high-risk, leading to higher rates.
What Are Common Reasons for License Suspension?
Many motorists in Texas are often surprised to learn their driving privileges have been suspended. A suspension can occur for a variety of reasons, including:
- Unpaid traffic tickets
- Failure to appear for a court date for a traffic violation
- Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) offenses
- Accumulating too many traffic violations
- Failing to maintain the state’s minimum car insurance
How Do I Reinstate a Suspended License?
To reinstate a suspended driver’s license in Texas, you must satisfy certain legal requirements. First and foremost, you must visit the Texas DPS Driver License Eligibility website to determine the reason behind the suspension, outstanding fees that must be paid, and specific compliance items necessary.
Reinstatement requires paying all outstanding fines and court fees. You’ll also need to address insurance requirements like obtaining an SR-22 certificate of high-risk insurance. It’s important to provide proof of completed court requirements. Before you get behind the wheel, you must verify that the status on the DPS website has changed to “eligible.”
As you can see, driving with a suspended license in Texas can result in serious criminal penalties. At The Gonzalez Law Group, we are prepared to help safeguard your rights and restore your driving privileges. Connect with our firm today to schedule a consultation.