What Happens if I’m Caught Driving With a Suspended License in New Jersey?

Regardless of the reason it was taken away, if your license is suspended in New Jersey it means you cannot operate a motor vehicle on public roads. Doing so during the period of your suspension is a serious risk and a violation of the law. If you get caught driving with a suspended license in NJ you will face a slew of legal consequences varying from simple fines to jail time. Contact a Bergen County traffic ticket attorney to discuss your situation and obtain skilled representation today.

Under What Circumstances Would a Driver’s License Be Suspended?

There are various reasons that an individual might have their driver’s license suspended. The following are some common causes.

• 12 or more points on your license within 2 years
• Failure to appear in court
• Unpaid parking tickets
• Failure to pay court-ordered fines
• Failure to pay child support
• Failure to pay insurance surcharges to the MVC
• Driving without insurance
• Conviction of certain criminal offenses
• Conviction of driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Conviction of refusal to take a breathalyzer

If any of the above apply to you, your license will likely be suspended. You can receive notice of a suspension in the mail or have it announced in court depending on the details of your situation.

The amount of time your license will be suspended varies depending on the wrongdoing you have committed. For example, getting 12 points on your license within 2 years can result in a suspension of 30 days while being convicted of a DWI can be accompanied by a suspension period of 3 months or up to 10 years if you are a repeat offender.

What Are the Consequences for Getting Caught Driving With a Suspended License in NJ?

When you are caught driving with a suspended license you can find yourself facing serious legal trouble. NJ law does not take lightly to individuals operating a motor vehicle while unlicensed. Below is the general sentencing guideline for each offense of driving with a suspended license.

First offense:

• A fine of $500
• Additional license suspension of up to 6 months
• Revocation of registration (if the license was suspended related to DWI charges)

Second offense:

• A fine of $750
• Additional license suspension of up to 6 months
• Mandatory 1 to 5 days in jail
• Revocation of registration (if the license was suspended related to DWI charges or if the second offense was within 5 years of the first offense)

Third or subsequent offense:

• A fine of $1,000
• Additional license suspension of up to 6 months
• Mandatory 10 days in jail
• Revocation of registration (if the license was suspended related to DWI charges or if the third offense was within 5 years of the second offense)

The penalties for driving with a suspended license can be severe so it is recommended that you abide by the terms of your suspension and stay off the roads. Speak with an experienced defense attorney for legal advice and representation.