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What happens if police catch you driving without a license?

I don’t have a license, and my sister usually takes me to work. Yesterday she was sick, and she told me to take her keys and take the car. I was too nervous to do that, so I just called out, but I’m worried I’ll get in trouble at work if that happens again. What would happen if the police pulled me over and found out I was driving without a license?

avatar
Macy Fouse · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Oh no!
Driving without a license
is illegal in all US states, but the penalties differ drastically from place to place. While it can be helpful to know the specific laws in your state, it’s always safest to stay off the road until you have your license in hand.
If police catch you driving without a license, the consequences can include hefty fines, criminal charges, time in jail, or a revoked license. For example, getting caught without a license for the first time will only cost you a $50 fine in Wisconsin—but in Alabama, you could face imprisonment for 180 days, an impounded vehicle, and
license suspension
.
These types of charges and infractions can also cause your insurance rates to skyrocket. No matter what your record looks like, though,
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

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