Expired License & Expired Vehicle Registration

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Driving with an expired driver’s license or with an expired vehicle registration may seem like a small infraction, but the penalties can be quite serious. Driving without a valid license or without a current registration is illegal in the State of Florida, yet many people are not aware of how important it is to get each one renewed in a timely manner. The renewal process for each one is quite simple, and putting it off could end up costing you a lot more problems. If you are stopped while driving your motorcycle with an expired license or registration, at 911 Biker Law we can provide you with a reliable Orlando motorcycle defense attorney.

Driving with an Expired License in Orlando, FL

Driving your motorcycle with an expired driver’s license is considered a criminal offense, and if caught, it will be marked as such on both your criminal record and driving record. Driving without a license is a gamble, and it is always better to abide by the law than risk penalties.

Penalties for Driving with an Expired License

When it comes to being caught with an expired license, the penalty will depend on the officer who stopped you. If the officer is feeling lenient, he/she may let you off with only a warning and urge you to get it renewed. If the officer decides to charge you with a violation, then the penalties could include:

  • Up to a $250 fine
  • Two points on your license
  • Suspended license
  • Increased insurance rates
  • Car impoundment
  • Probation
  • Jail time

If your license has been expired for over a year, you will be required to retake the necessary driving tests to be issued a driver’s license.

Reinstating Your License

In Florida, the DMV will notify you 45 days before the expiration of your license by sending you a renewal application in the mail. It is your responsibility to return the filled out application before the date of expiration. The cost to renew a driver’s license is $48. If you fail to pay the renewal fee and fill out the application within the 45 days, you will be charged late fees upon renewal.

What to Do if Caught with an Expired License?

If you are caught driving your motorcycle with an expired license, it is imperative that you contact an attorney right away. A motorcycle lawyer can help reduce or dismiss your charges, protecting your driving record, criminal record, and insurance rates.

Driving with an Expired Florida Vehicle Registration

Every year on your birthday you need to newnew you vehicle registration. If the renewal fee and application is not received by midnight on your birthday, then the registration will become expired and late fees apply. If you are pulled over with an expired registration you may face fines and penalties.

Penalties for Driving with an Expired Registration

If your driver’s registration is expired for less than six months when stopped, you will receive a noncriminal traffic infraction and a fine that typically does not exceed $100. On a second offense, if your registration has been expired for more than six months you will be charged with a criminal traffic violation that will be in your driving record as well as your criminal record. The penalties include a fine of up to $500 and even possible jail time or probation, a suspended license, and most likely increased insurance rates. Forging or faking a registration tag for your vehicle is a second-degree misdemeanor with penalties of up to 60 days in jail, 6 months probation and a $500 fine.

Renewing Your Vehicle Registration

To renew your vehicle registration in Florida, you have the option of going online to the Florida HSMV website and entering your vehicle info and paying the renewal fee or mailing your vehicle registration renewal application and fees. You can also choose to visit your local HSMV office with your renewal notice and registration certificate.

What to Do if Caught with an Expired Registration?

If you have received a traffic violation for riding your motorcycle without a current vehicle registration it is important that you seek the help of a traffic ticket attorney. An attorney will know how to fight for your case to reduce or dismiss your charges so that it doesn’t affect your future.

Traffic Defense Attorney in Orlando, FL

Charges for riding your motorcycle while having an expired license or an expired vehicle registration can jeopardize your job, financial stability, insurance rates, and overall future. At 911 Biker Law, we understand that people sometimes make mistakes and may fail to renew their license or registration in time. Contact us today for a motorcycle accident attorney Orlando residents can trust to fight to protect them.