Driving without a license in Smyrna is not just another traffic violation. In Georgia, this offense could result in criminal misdemeanor penalties, including jail and probation, if you’re convicted.
The law requires every driver to have a driver’s license in their immediate possession when driving a vehicle. So, even if you have a valid license, you could still face penalties for driving with no license in Georgia if you do not have your license on you during a traffic stop.
An officer will also cite or arrest you if you refuse to comply. Refusing to hand over your driver’s license can make a bad situation worse. However, if you can prove that you had a valid license at the time of the traffic stop, you may be able to resolve your citation with a minimal fine.
Another common scenario for this offense is driving with a suspended license. This violation is more serious than misplacing the card, or forgetting a valid license at home. Even though some drivers may be unaware that that their license is suspended, they still face significant penalties. For this reason, it’s a good idea to check your current license status if you think there might be any issues.
Finally, you may also receive a citation for this offense if your license has been canceled, revoked, or disqualified by the DDS.
What Are the Consequences of Driving Without a License?
Penalties for this traffic violation may vary based on the jurisdiction, driver’s age, and prior driving history.
Typical consequences include a fine, two days in the county jail, and license suspension. But, the outcome can be more concerning for those who decide to fight the charges without an experienced Smyrna Traffic Lawyer by their side. The court often dishes out the maximum penalties in these cases.
However, a skilled traffic violation lawyer can help improve your odds. They may be able to:
- Identify areas in your case that would be a viable defense
- Get charges reduced
- Help you avoid an automatic suspension
If you’re serious about fighting a no license charge in Georgia, schedule a free consult with a traffic attorney before going to court.
Resolving a No License Charge at Smyrna Municipal Court
If an officer issued your citation within the city limits of Smyrna, Georgia, the government will likely schedule a court date at Smyrna Municipal Court. This court is responsible for processing all traffic citations and misdemeanor state law violations issued by the local police department.
If you plan to fight the no license citation, you can show up to your court date and plead not guilty. And, if you want to have your case heard before a jury, you can request a transfer to a higher court – Cobb County State Court – during your arraignment.
But, if you don’t plan to fight the charges, drivers can sometimes resolve traffic violations online by paying the ticket. The automated system will notify you when you attempt to pay if a court appearance is required.
If you have questions about your citation or court date, you can contact Smyrna Municipal Court at 770-431-2804.