Driving While Your License is Invalid in Texas

In all states, people are not supposed to drive while they are unlicensed, or while their driver’s license is suspended or revoked for any reason, such as too many traffic violations, a DWI conviction, or past-due child support.

If your license is revoked, suspended, denied, or canceled for any reason and you go ahead and drive anyway, you commit the offense of driving while your license is invalid, otherwise known as “DWLI.” If you drive without a valid license and you’re stopped by law enforcement and caught, or if you’re cited for a traffic violation, or for the offense of DWLI, your Texas driver’s license suspension will be extended.

Reinstating an Invalid License

Before you can renew or have your driver’s license reissued, you will have to complete the following conditions:

  1. You must serve the required license suspension period.
  2. You will have to pay the $100 required reinstatement fee before your license can be renewed or issued.
  3. If you owe any other required fees, you will have to pay those in full.
  4. You will have to get a financial responsibility insurance certificate (SR-22) from an authorized automobile insurance provider. The SR-22 will have to be maintained for a full two years from the date of the conviction.

Not sure about the status of your Texas driver’s license? You can go to the Texas Department of Public Safety’s website and visit their License Eligibility page. On this page, you’ll have to enter the information on your Texas driver’s license, such as the driver’s license number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

Need an Attorney’s Help?

A suspended or revoked license can be stressful and confusing. If your license is invalid and you need professional legal assistance resolving the issue, we invite you to reach out to The Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC for help. We understand how these matters can be overwhelming, and we’re more than happy to help you gain control over the situation. Call today to see how we can help you.

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