Many people might think that driving without a valid or current licence is a minor issue. However, driving unlicensed, or with a suspended or disqualified licence comes serious risks and heavy penalties under the Road Safety Act in Victoria. Knowing what can happen if you find yourself in this position is essential if you want to be back behind the wheel. Rebecca Burdon Legal & Consulting, experts in Melbourne traffic law, can help you if you find yourself in this position or have been charged by Police.
Understanding Driving in Victoria
To refer to a driver as being unlicensed, can have multiple meanings. That is why a traffic lawyer in Melbourne can help you understand the status of your licence and what to do if you are before the court for acting contrary to the road rules.
Whether a driver is operating a vehicle without a driver's licence for reasons including:
having never held a valid licence
previously held a licence that was cancelled for a traffic violation
failing to renew their licence on time
holding a valid interstate licence but have lived in Victoria for more than a three month or
have had their licence suspended or cancelled by a court, there are significant consequences if you are found driving without a valid driver's licence.
Each of these situations presents unique risks—not just to the driver but to all road users. By driving unlicensed, you ignore the safety measures that the licensing system is there to enforce.
Unlicensed Driving in Victoria
The Road Safety Act 1986 enforces strict penalties for an s18 unlicensed driving charge in Victoria. If caught driving without a valid licence, offenders face hefty fines. For a first-time offence, the fine can reach up to $1,000. If you repeat the offence, fines may increase to $2,000 or more, and you can be sentenced to a term of imprisonment.
In addition to financial penalties, unlicensed driving can add demerit points, complicating the situation if you already have accrued points against your driver licence already accrued. Our team of experienced traffic lawyers in Melbourne are here to help you with your legal questions if you are charged with an offence.
Driving While Suspended or Disqualified
Driving with a suspended or disqualified licence carries even harsher consequences. The penalties here can be up to three times more severe than those for standard unlicensed driving including terms of imprisonment.
For instance, a disqualified driver caught operating a vehicle could receive a fine of up to $3,000, coupled with an extended suspension period (on top of the initial suspension time). This creates a cycle where drivers struggle to regain their legal driving privileges, affecting employment and personal circumstances.
If your licence is suspended or disqualified by a Court, then you can expect to receive a significantly increased penalty and more time off the road due to the lack of regard the Court deems you would have in these circumstances. Engaging our traffic lawyers at Burdon Legal we can work with you to minimise any further licence suspension.
The Importance of Compliance
Recognising the serious consequences of driving without a valid licence highlights the importance of following road safety regulations. It is essential to keep your driver licence up to date, current and comply with any legal requirements related to your ability to drive.
If you've had your licence suspended or disqualified, take direct steps to resolve the situation legally. Completing required driving courses, passing assessments, or consulting legal experts can help you navigate this complex process, some of which we explain on our support page.
Seeking Legal Advice from Traffic Lawyers in Melbourne
If you find yourself charged with one of these driving offences, seeking prompt professional legal advice is vital. Contact Burdon Legal, specialist traffic lawyers in Melbourne, for personalised legal advice and guidance throughout your case.
Understanding your rights and responsibilities under the Road Safety Act can assist you in the early stages of your matter, identifying a defence to the charge, and limiting the impact on further time off the road and help you regain your driving privileges.
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