Life doesn’t stop because you lost your license. You still need to get to work, pick up the kids, or make it to an appointment. But before you get behind the wheel, there are consequences of driving without one.
So, what happens if you are caught with a suspended license? Many times, you could face fines, time in jail, and an even longer suspension.
And what happens next depends on why your license was suspended, whether you’ve been charged with the offense before, and the details of your situation.
Is Driving with a Suspended License a Crime?
Under South Carolina law, driving while your license is suspended, canceled, or revoked can result in criminal penalties.
- A first offense, the penalty is a $300 fine, up to 30 days in jail, or both.
- A second offense can bring a $600 fine, up to 60 consecutive days in jail, or both.
- A third or subsequent offense, the penalty can include a $1,000 fine and up to 90 days of imprisonment or home detention.
There are more serious penalties that can apply when a license is suspended or revoked for certain DUI-related offenses.
A suspended license charge isn’t something to brush off as another traffic ticket. Depending on your history and the reason for the suspension, the consequences can be substantial.
Why Was Your License Suspended?
The reason for your suspension is important. South Carolina drivers can lose their driving privileges for several reasons, including:
- Driving under the influence (DUI) or certain alcohol-related offenses
- Failing to maintain required auto insurance
- Accumulating driving violations
- Failing to comply with certain court or financial requirements
If you are not sure why your license was suspended, the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles can help you determine your license status and explain what requirements you need to meet.
Even if you believe the suspension period has ended, you may need to complete additional requirements before you can legally drive again.
Could Your License Be Suspended for Even Longer?
Unfortunately, yes. A conviction for driving with a suspended license can extend the time you’re unable to drive legally. Under South Carolina law, the DMV must extend a definite suspension by an additional period equal to the original suspension.
If the original suspension has already expired before the conviction, the law can still require an additional suspension. That can create a frustrating cycle: you drive because you need to get somewhere, receive another charge, and end up facing an even longer period without your license.
The best way to avoid making the situation worse is to find out exactly what you need to do to restore your driving privileges before getting back behind the wheel.
What Should You Do If You’re Charged?
If you’ve been charged with driving with a suspended license, you will want to collect any paperwork related to the traffic stop, your charge, and the original suspension.
You can also check your license status with the South Carolina DMV to understand why your driving privileges were suspended and whether there are any reinstatement requirements.
Most importantly, you should also consider speaking with a traffic ticket defense attorney. A lawyer can review the charge and help you understand your options. You might be able to challenge the suspension, the evidence, or whether the charge was properly brought.
Until you confirm that you’re legally allowed to drive, make sure to avoid getting behind the wheel. If you need transportation, look into alternatives while you work through the reinstatement process.
Get Professional Legal Help for Your Suspended License
What happens if you are caught while driving with a suspended license? You can face some serious consequences. That could mean fines, jail time, a longer suspension period, and worrying how you’ll get where you need to go.
At Truslow & Truslow PA, we can look at your suspension and discuss the options available to you.
If you’ve been charged with driving with a suspended license in South Carolina, schedule a consultation. We can help you take those next steps with your case.