Driving Without a License in California: 12500 (VC)
Facing Charges for Driving Without a Valid License? Schedule a Free Consultation Now
You must have a valid license to drive in California. Driving without a license in San Diego is a crime under California Vehicle Code Section 12500 (VC), but Vista defense attorney Peter M. Liss can help you fight your charges.1
Fight for your freedom without draining your wallet! If you need a skilled, experienced attorney with over 40 years of experience fighting motor vehicle-related charges, including offenses filed under 12500 (VC), please call (760) 643-4050 to schedule a free consultation.
Caught Driving Without a License in San Diego County? Here’s What to Know
If a police officer pulls you over, they will ask you to present your driver’s license, insurance information, and vehicle registration information. If you do not have a license, you can be charged under 12500 (VC).
What 12500 (VC) Doesn’t Cover
This law does not apply if your license was suspended or revoked —that is a separate crime under Vehicle Code 14601 (VC).2 It also doesn’t apply if you have a valid license but cannot or will not show it during a traffic stop; that’s another crime under 12951 (VC).3
Who Can be Charged for Driving Without a License?
Many think this law only affects teens or those who never got a license, but it can apply to anyone who should have a license in California. For example:
- Visitors from other countries who are staying in the state for more than 30 days
- Drivers who continue to drive after their license has expired
- New California residents who fail to obtain a license within 20 days
- A juvenile visitor from another state who stays for more than 10 days
Is Driving Without a License a Misdemeanor or Infraction in California?
12500 (VC) is what’s known as a wobblette, meaning it can be charged as a misdemeanor or infraction. Usually, if you just forgot to renew or get a new license, it’s an infraction —especially if you fix it within 20 days after being pulled over.
If you drive without ever getting a license, Peter Liss says you’re more likely to face a misdemeanor charge.
What is the Penalty for 12500 (VC)?
As an infraction, the penalty is up to $250. For a misdemeanor, you could face up to $1,000 in fines and six months in jail.
Will Mr. Liss Help Me Fight My Ticket?
Peter Liss does not represent clients accused of traffic infractions, as he focuses on misdemeanor and felony cases. If the prosecutors file this charge as an infraction, he cannot help you. However, if the charges are filed as a misdemeanor, he can represent you, advocate for your case, and may be able to plead the charge to an infraction.
Charged With Driving Without a License?
If you are facing this charge, promptly obtaining a valid California driver’s license is one of the most effective steps you can take. Acquiring a current license often results in the charges being reduced to an infraction.
If getting a valid license is not possible, you should retain a qualified defense attorney such as Peter M. Liss. As your representative, he can defend you against driving without a license charges and any related allegations, such as joyriding.
Common Defenses
Each case is unique. Do not attempt to represent yourself, and never speak to the police without an attorney. However, common defenses to this charge may include:
- You were not actually driving
- You were driving on private property (not a parking lot open to the public)
- You did have a valid license at the time
- Police lacked reasonable suspicion to stop your vehicle
- You were responding to an emergency and no alternative was available
Negotiating a Plea Bargain
In many cases, the best defense is for your attorney to negotiate a favorable plea bargain. Depending on your circumstances, Peter M. Liss can work to have the charges reduced to an infraction or seek to have some charges dropped if you face multiple allegations.
No-License Driving
Defense Attorney in Vista
If you face misdemeanor driving charges, contact a lawyer immediately. Peter M. Liss is dedicated to helping his clients fight their charges.
As your attorney, he will:
- Make court motions on your behalf
- Advise you on actions you can take to minimize sentencing
- Seek to reduce the charges against you
- Fight the charges in court, if necessary
- Working to secure the lowest possible sentence
Call Peter Liss Today
No matter when you call, a live person will answer 24/7. Mr. Liss responds promptly and courteously to all inquiries.
Easy to Find Locations
With locations in the heart of Vista (just across the street from the North San Diego Courthouse) and Carmel Valley, you don’t have to drive far to get great legal representation in North County. Both locations offer free parking and accept all major credit cards.
Dedication and Experience
When you work with Peter M. Liss, he is the only attorney who will handle your case. His proven record of success and client testimonials demonstrate his support and tenacity.
A Background to Rely On
Peter Liss holds a law degree from the top-ranked University of California, Berkeley School of Law. With over 40 years of experience, where he represented clients in more than 100 trials, he brings extensive knowledge to help secure the best possible results for clients.
I’m available, let’s talkStart Your Defense Today
If you or a loved one has been accused of driving without a license, call attorney Peter Liss today to schedule a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Driving Without a Valid License in Vista, CA
Can You go to Jail for Driving Without a License in California?
It is possible to be jailed for driving without a license; however, most people caught driving without a license are fined, not jailed.
How Many Points Does Driving Without a License Add to Your Driving Record?
A conviction for this offense does not add any points to your record.
What is the Penalty for Refusing to Show Your License to an Officer in CA?
Refusing to show your license during a traffic stop can be an infraction or misdemeanor under Vehicle Code 12951 (VC). The penalty is the same as driving without a license—up to $1,000 in fines and six months in jail. If you were not legally detained or driving, refusing to show ID is not a crime.
Legal References
- Vehicle Code 12500 (VC) (California Legislative Information) ↩︎
- Vehicle Code 14601 (VC) (California Legislative Information) ↩︎
- Vehicle Code 12951 (VC) (California Legislative Information) ↩︎
