What Happens if You Get Pulled Over Without Your License On You?

Bill Allen | October 1, 2025 | Florida Law

To legally operate a vehicle in Florida, you need a valid driver’s license. This requires passing a knowledge and skills test, and this license requirement helps minimize car accidents and keep everyone on the roads safe. After you obtain your license, you should always carry it with you when driving.

Nearly everyone has forgotten to grab their license on the way out the door at some point, but what happens if you get pulled over without it? The answer likely depends on the reason you don’t have it and whether or not the officer can verify your identity.

Keep reading below to learn what may happen if you get pulled over with your license on you.

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The Consequences of Getting Pulled Over Without Your License

If you merely forgot your license at home, you are not likely to suffer any serious consequences for not having your license on you. Police officers typically have considerable discretion in how to handle this situation. As long as the officer can verify your information and identify you, it is likely that you will be released with just a warning or a minor citation.

However, if you don’t have your license on you because your license is suspended or revoked, the consequences could be much more serious.

Basic Overview of a Traffic Stop Without Your License

Getting pulled over can cause some anxiety, especially if you do not have your license on you. Staying calm and knowing how to handle the situation can work in your favor. Most officers are going to follow similar steps in these situations, and those include:

Requesting Information

After the initial stop, the officer will approach your vehicle. They are likely to ask for your license, registration, and proof of insurance. If you don’t have your license on you, let the officer know.

More than likely, the officer will then ask you for additional information. This may include your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number. If you know your driver’s license number, this information can also be useful.

Identity Check

Once the officer has your information, they will check their database through their in-car computer system. This check allows them to determine whether you have a valid driver’s license. If all your information checks out, they typically have discretion on whether to issue you a warning or a citation.

Additional Verification or Questioning

If the officer is unsuccessful in verifying your identity, you may be asked to provide additional information. In some cases, you might even be detained until they can determine who you are and your license status. This could even require a trip to the police station.

Penalties for Driving Without a License in Florida

Florida law details the penalties you can face for driving without a valid license. They may include:

First offense: second-degree misdemeanor, up to 60 days in jail, fines of up to $500, and up to six months of probation
Second offense: first-degree misdemeanor, fines of up to $1,000, up to one year in jail, and probation of up to one year
Subsequent offenses: potential felony charges, higher fines, and a jail sentence

In addition to these criminal penalties, you might also face higher insurance rates and difficulties obtaining employment or housing due to your criminal record. Those who are caught operating a commercial vehicle without the proper license can face even more serious consequences and penalties.

This is because these large vehicles can cause serious damage in the event of a truck accident.

What to Do If You Are in an Accident With an Unlicensed Driver

If you are involved in an accident with an unlicensed driver, try to remain calm and follow the steps below. First, seek immediate medical attention for any injuries, and then notify the police. If possible, take pictures of all the vehicles involved in the crash.

Never admit fault after the accident, and talk to an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. Your lawyer can help you pursue both economic and non-economic damages from the at-fault party. Even though they may be driving without a license, the at-fault party could still owe you significant compensation for your injuries.

Contact Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation With a Gainesville Car Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in a car accident in Gainesville — whether the other driver had a valid license or not — you don’t have to handle the aftermath alone. Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers can explain your rights, investigate your case, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact our Gainesville car accident lawyers today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.

If you need legal assistance, contact the Gainesville car accident lawyers at Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers at your nearest location to schedule a free consultation today, we’re open 24 hours daily.

We have three convenient locations in Marion County and Alachua County, North Central Florida:

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Gainesville Office
2550 SW 76th St #150
Gainesville, FL 32608
(877) 255-3652

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Downtown Gainesville
621 W University Ave
Gainesville, FL 32601
(866) 928-6292

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Ocala Office
112 S Pine Ave
Ocala, FL 34471
(352) 351-3258