Driving without a Valid License
What counts as a violation of Vehicle Code § 12500?
Vehicle Code § 12500(a) makes it a crime to drive a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license on a highway or in a public parking lot.
Vehicle Code § 12500(b) also makes it a crime for a person to drive a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle without a valid driver’s license or endorsement issued under this code for that class.
Additionally, under Vehicle Code § 12500(e), a motorized scooter operated on public streets must be equipped with an engine that complies with the applicable State Air Resources Board emission requirements.
What is the punishment for a violation of Vehicle Code § 12500?
A violation of Vehicle Code § 12500 could be charged as a misdemeanor, depending on the defendant’s driving record, punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, or can be sentenced to county jail for a maximum of six months. As an infraction, this offense could result in a fine of up to $250.
What defenses are available for a violation of Vehicle Code § 12500?
- Defendant was not the driver
- Defendant had a valid out-of-state driver’s license
