Every state has penalties for driving with an expired license – tickets, fines, vehicle impoundment, and possible arrest are just the start. Illinois is not an exception.
If you happen to live in the beautiful state of Illinois, you shouldn’t take driving with an expired license lightly. Just because every state is different and has leniency in its regulations with expired driver’s licenses does not mean Illinois is an exception to this rule.
Illinois state law says, “No person shall drive a motor vehicle unless he holds a valid license or permit, or a restricted driving permit issued.” (625 ILCS 5 / 6 - 101). Essentially, it is illegal for any driver to operate a vehicle with an expired license.
What happens if you drive in Illinois with an expired driver’s license? Well, the consequences are not significant, and depending on how long your driver’s license has expired, the severity of your consequences can be determined. Here are some things that can happen if caught driving with an expired driver’s license in Illinois.
Driving Without a Driver’s License is Illegal, But Driving With an Expired Driver’s License is Worse
So, we all know what can happen if we drive in Illinois without a driver’s license. However, many people frequently drive with an expired driver’s license more often than without a license.
The consequences aren’t severe to the point where you will get pulled over by four cop cars, but you might find yourself getting arrested or even given a ticket. Here is what else can happen if caught driving with an expired license in Illinois.
- If caught driving with an expired license, you will receive a citation and court summons for a hearing. You could even face the same penalties as driving without a license, such as facing a Class B Misdemeanor, up to 6 months in jail, up to 24 months of probation, and even up to $1,500 in fines.
- You will be arrested if you are found driving under the influence, commit a hit and run, or have a prior defense on your record. You will even have to stay in prison until your bond is paid, and you don’t want that. So, renew your license in Illinois before driving again.
- If your license is expired, the Secretary of State can even suspend your license altogether.
- If you fail to attend court, matters will only worsen. Your suspension or revocation will be extended, and additional fines will pile up.
What Will Also Happen if You Don’t Renew Your Expired Illinois Drivers License
There might be a general overview of what happens when you don’t renew your expired license. However, plenty of information will help you go more in-depth about what will happen to you if you are caught driving with an expired driver’s license in Illinois.
Police Can Impound Your Car
Before you argue with police about your expired license, we encourage you to look at Illinois state law, which legally gives police officers the right to impound your car if you are driving with an expired license and without proof of car insurance.
Also, suppose you are convicted of driving with an expired license. In that case, the Illinois Secretary of State will revoke your driving privileges by suspending your license. And you will be able to apply for a new license once the suspension period ends.
Trust us, as your auto insurance company, we aren’t thrilled to see your mugshot appear on the news with a headline saying you were caught with an expired license. If you want the best insurance possible, don’t violate any laws, especially if your driver’s license expires soon.
When to Renew your Drivers License
- Three months after your 21st birthday
- Every four years, if you are between 21-80 years old
- Every two years, if you are between 81-86 years old
- Every year, if they are 87 and older
It would help never to renew your license until the last minute. Renew your license before its expiration date. Believe it or not, licenses may be renewed up to one year before a four-year or two-year license expires or six months before a one-year license expires.
It is straightforward, and we all forget sometimes, especially when remembering to renew our license. However, keep checking it or even write down the date when it does expire. You will save yourself the embarrassment of explaining to a cop why you’re driving with an expired license. Not to mention having to explain to your insurance company what happened and the charges you were given.
Regardless of your driving record, Insurance Navy can help you snag the right and affordable coverage you need. The best way to get Cheap car insurance in Chicago that fit your driving needs is to get a free online quote from Insurance Navy.
Insurance Navy helps drivers of all risk levels. Contact us today at 888-949-6289 or online to request your auto insurance quote. It only takes a few minutes. Feel free to stop in at one of our many convenient locations if you need assistance.
