What Is the Penalty for Teens Driving Without a License in AZ?

A teen driving in Arizona without his license will incur severe penalties. The consequences may also be harmful to those in the vehicle if the passenger does not provide information on who the teen is. Those who loan the teen the vehicle may additionally receive charges or fines for allowing him to borrow the car.

Misdemeanor

The teen will be guilty of a class 2 misdemeanor if she refuses to show or does not have a driver’s license if pulled over. If the officer asks for identification, she will need to provide a valid document that contains his or her basic information, name, address, and signature. Class 2 misdemeanors carry up to a $750 fine and 48 hours in jail as of 2010. Additionally, the officer will impound the vehicle for up to 30 days.

Passengers

Regardless of whether or not those in the vehicle are friends and family of the teens, he must give the officer any information about the teen when asked. If the person in the vehicle fails to give the officer information on the driver, he will also be guilty of a class 2 misdemeanor. This will result in the same punishment as the teen that drove the vehicle without a license.

Vehicle Owners

The person who allowed the unlicensed minor to drive their vehicle will face charges for any damages due to negligence and misconduct of the driver. If the person allows the minor to drive on a state highway, this is also a class 2 misdemeanor. She will also be responsible for paying the impound fees and picking up the vehicle.

Revoked or Suspended Licenses

If the teen’s license has been suspended, canceled, or revoked, then he will face a class 1 misdemeanor. He may serve 48 hours in jail without probation or suspension of the sentence. He may also get a $300 fine (as of laws in effect in 2010).

Repeat Offenses

Repeat offenders within the same year will incur additional fines up to $500 per instance. The suspension period of the license could also extend an additional year. If the offender reinstates his license and the conviction during suspension shows up, the teen will have his license automatically revoked for three months, and six months for every offense thereafter.

References

• Arizona State Legislator: Failure to Stop or Provide Driver License or Evidence of Identity; Violation; Classification
• The University of Arizona: Surviving a Misdemeanor Charge
• Arizona State Legislator: Driving Violations; Classification
• Arizona State Legislator: 28-3163. Unlicensed Minor; Liability
• Arizona State Legislator: 28-3474. Permitting Unauthorized Minor to Drive; Classification