It’s common knowledge that you need a valid driver’s license to drive a car in the United States and everywhere else in the world. But some people drive without a driver’s license for several reasons. We look into the number of such people in this article.
It’s hard to keep track of the number of unlicensed drivers in the US as they are not identified. Also, such statistics are not tracked by the Government and other bodies.
The best anyone can do to guess the number of people driving without a license in the US. And even such numbers will be nothing more than a guess since there are no statistics to back it up.
How Many Unlicensed Drivers Are In The US?
Many unlicensed drivers are not identified, and this makes it difficult to estimate their numbers. In 2003, the L.A times estimated that there are 2 million unlicensed drivers in California. Fast forward to 2022, and one can expect that number to have gone up.
Statista also estimated that about 89% of US adults are licensed drivers, so one can estimate the number of unlicensed drivers to be somewhere within 21% of adults without a license. Note that some people don’t have a driver’s license because they don’t own a car or intend to drive one.
In a nutshell, it’s difficult to keep track of unlicensed drivers. Estimating their numbers is even more difficult because they aren’t identified. However, many States have harsh laws to punish people driving without licenses to discourage the act.
Can You Drive Without A License In The United States?
It’s a privilege to drive in the United States, and that privilege is only conferred on those that have taken the time to get their driver’s license. So without a valid driver’s license, you can’t legally drive in the US.
If you are caught driving without a license, you are bound to face severe consequences. According to the NHTSA, about 19% of car accidents involve drivers without valid licenses. When you think about this, you’ll realize the Government has a good reason to go hard on people driving illegally in the country.
What Happens If You Drive Without A License?
While the penalty for driving without a license can be severe, the same penalties depend on a number of factors such as:
- Whether it was the first time you were caught driving without a license
- The State you live in.
- Whether your license was suspended or revoked.
In most cases, drivers receive fines that exceed $1000, revocation or suspension of their license, and possible jail time.
Licensed drivers must have their licenses on them whenever they are behind the wheel. Failure to do so is an offense, and they may be fined or have their license suspended if they are caught. However, the license suspension is temporary as the suspension will be lifted once they are able to prove they have a license in court.
Reasons To Not Drive Without A License
If you don’t have a valid driver’s license, you have no business driving a motor vehicle on public roads. Below are reasons why you should never drive without a license:
Safety
An unlicensed driver is a danger to himself and other road users. Driving licenses aren’t just fancy documents that give people the privilege to drive. Instead, it’s part of a carefully crafted system that teaches people how to drive and educates them on driving regulations and responsible driving practices.
So, a licensed driver is a capable and knowledgeable driver. People without a valid driver’s license haven’t received the necessary training and are a danger to everyone on the road.
Penalties
If the safety of yourself and other road users isn’t enough to convince you not to drive without a license, perhaps the penalties with. First-time offenders usually face ‘milder’ penalties. They will be charged with a misdemeanor and fined.
Repeat offenders receive harsher penalties that may involve jail time. People that have lost their driving privileges in the past will also receive heavy punishments for driving without a license if they are caught.
How Can I Receive a Driver’s License In The US?
Many US states have their own processes for issuing a driver’s license. Usually, these processes are rigorous in order to ensure only competent people are behind the wheel.
The process for getting a driver’s license in the US is as follows:
Apply for a learner’s permit: The first step to getting a driver’s license is to apply for a learner’s permit. To obtain a learner’s permit, you’ll need to pass a written exam and an eye exam. The written exam is based on your understanding of the regulations and information in your State’s driver’s handbook. So, be sure to pick up a copy at your local DMV or download an electronic copy online and read it before the exam.
You must be at least 14 – 16 years old to get a learner’s permit. The exact age depends on each State. You’ll also need to provide proof of your identity and residency. If you pass the written and eye test, you’ll be issued a learner’s permit. Note when the permit expires.
Complete driving time: After receiving your learner’s permit, the next step is learning how to drive. And this usually involves enrolling in a driving school. You can also practice driving outside the driving school if you have someone above 21 who has had their license for several years with you. The practice will be good for you.
You are also required to drive supervised for at least 50 hours after getting a learner’s permit. Of the 50 hours of supervised driving time, at least 15 hours must be done at night. You’ll also need to take a 5-hour course.
Pass a road test: The final stage of getting your driver’s license involves a road test with a professional from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV employee will evaluate your driving skills, and their assessment will determine whether you’ll receive a license or not.
