Driving with a suspended license in Florida is a criminal offense — not just a traffic ticket. Many people don’t realize that a simple mistake like missing a court date or failing to pay a fine can lead to a charge that puts your freedom, your license, and your future at risk.
If you’ve been arrested or cited, here’s what you need to know — and how an experienced Fort Lauderdale suspended license attorney can help you fight back.
⚖️ What Does Driving With a Suspended License in Florida Mean?
Under Florida Statute § 322.34, it’s illegal to drive a vehicle in the state if your license has been suspended, revoked, or canceled — and you knew about it.
There are two versions of this charge:
With knowledge – This is a criminal offense (misdemeanor or felony).
Without knowledge – This is a civil infraction, like a regular traffic ticket.
Whether you’re charged criminally depends on what the state believes you knew at the time you were stopped.
🚨 Penalties for Driving With a Suspended License in Florida
The penalties for driving with a suspended license in Florida increase with each offense:
First offense (with knowledge):
Up to 60 days in jail
$500 fine
Second offense:
First-degree misdemeanor
Up to 1 year in jail
$1,000 fine
Third offense:
Third-degree felony
Up to 5 years in prison
$5,000 fine
🤔 Why Was My License Suspended?
There are many reasons someone might be driving with a suspended license in Florida, often without even realizing it. Common causes include:
Unpaid traffic tickets or court fines
Failing to appear in court
DUI conviction or refusal to submit to a breath test
Failing to pay child support
Unfortunately, not knowing your license was suspended doesn’t always stop a criminal charge.
🛡️ Legal Defenses for Driving With a Suspended License in Florida
If you’re facing this charge, a skilled criminal defense attorney can help identify defenses like:
✅ You did not know your license was suspended
✅ You weren’t driving on a public roadway
✅ You were not the driver
✅ Your license was not actually suspended
✅ You’ve since reinstated your license
These defenses can be used to dismiss the case or reduce it to a non-criminal violation.
🔄 Can the Charge Be Dropped?
Yes. Driving with a suspended license in Florida can often be resolved without a conviction — especially for first-time offenders.
In Broward County, many eligible drivers qualify for the Misdemeanor Diversion Program (MDP), which avoids jail time and can result in charges being dismissed after successful completion.
👨⚖️ Why You Need a Suspended License Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale
Even if it’s your first time, driving with a suspended license in Florida can leave you with a criminal record that affects:
Employment
Immigration status
Future driving privileges
Future traffic or criminal charges
Our firm works to get charges dismissed, fight HTO designations, and protect your clean record.
🔗 Fort Lauderdale suspended license attorney
👨⚖️ Why You Need a Suspended License Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale
1. Is driving with a suspended license in Florida a crime?
Yes. If you knew about the suspension, it’s a criminal misdemeanor or felony.
2. Can I go to jail for this offense?
Yes. Jail is possible, especially for repeat offenses or felony-level charges.
3. What if I didn’t know my license was suspended?
You may be eligible for a civil citation instead of criminal charges.
4. Can the charge be dropped or reduced?
Yes. With a good attorney, it’s often possible to resolve it without a conviction.
5. What happens if I get convicted three times?
You may be labeled a Habitual Traffic Offender and lose your license for 5 years.