What Are The Penalties For Driving Without A License in Ohio?
Reader’s Question:
I just received a ticket for driving without a license and I just want to know what the penalties will be. Im a minor and I live in Ohio. Thanks.
Albert
Thank you for asking Albert.
Chapter 4507 of the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) which includes the Driver’s License Law for OH, states that no individual shall allow the operation of a motor vehicle upon any public or private property used by the public for purposes of vehicular travel or parking knowing the operator does not have a valid driver’s license issued to the operator by the registrar of motor vehicles.
If you get caught driving without a license you are guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree. Driving without ever being licensed may result to being fined of up to $1000 and jail time of up to 180 days. Since you are a minor there will likely a delay in you being able to receive an OH learner’s permit or license.
To get more information about your conviction and the penalties you may receive, you may call the court listed on your ticket and also contact the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
Goodluck!
MariCAR
What is Non Owners Bond?
Reader’s Question:
I would like to know what a non owners bond is? Am I required to have an insurance even if I do not own a vehicle. Can I drive my someone else’s car? What coverage can I get from non owners bond?
Leslie
Good question Leslie.
It is illegal in Ohio if you drive any vehicle without any car insurance or other financial responsibility (FR) proof. It is also against the law if a vehicle owner permits anyone else to drive their own vehicle with Financial Responsibility certificate. If you apply for a driver’s license or wants renew of such license, applicants in Ohio signs a statement stating that they have sr22 and will maintain Financial Responsibility (sr22) or will not drive a car in Ohio. This is the reason why you still need an sr22 even if you dont own a vehicle.
Non-owners sr22 is a car insurance that you may purchase if they do not own a car but will be driving other motor vehicles and is required to have a liability insurance. Typically, the non owners sr22 does not provide collision or comprehensive coverage on the motor vehicle.
A bond insurance is also another term for a SR-22. If you fail to show proof of financial responsibility in Ohio, it will result in violation of the Financial Reasponsibility law. You will be required to file with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) in Ohio a SR22 or bond. So you will need to continue maintaining sr22 for three to five years.
If you are being required to get an SR-22 and you do not own a car you can get a non-owner SR-22. You can fulfill the required liability insurance coverage by the Ohio BMV while driving vehicles.
Not all insurance companies offer sr-22. You may shop around or get quotes from individual insurance company websites to check which can give you the cheapest coverage in Ohio.
Goodluck!
MariCAR
