Many drivers in Fort Lauderdale don’t realize that something as simple as an expired vehicle tag or registration can lead to criminal charges, especially if it’s not your first offense. While this may seem like a minor oversight, Florida law allows for harsh penalties under the right conditions — including jail time.
Here’s what you need to know about driving with an expired tag in Fort Lauderdale, and how a criminal defense attorney can help protect your record.
🔍 What the Law Says About Expired Tags in Florida
Florida law requires that every vehicle operated on public roads be registered and display a current license plate. Under Fla. Stat. § 320.07, failure to renew your registration is generally a non-criminal violation — but it can escalate.
If the registration has been expired for more than six months, and it’s your second or subsequent offense, it becomes a second-degree misdemeanor.
⚖️ Penalties for Driving With an Expired Tag in Fort Lauderdale
If you’re charged criminally under Florida law, you could face:
Up to 60 days in jail
Up to 6 months of probation
A $500 fine
A permanent criminal record
In Broward County, prosecutors often charge this offense alongside other violations like:
Driving with a suspended license (DWLS)
No valid driver’s license (NVDL)
No insurance
Attaching an unassigned tag
🔗 More about DWLS and NVDL
🔗 Learn about Attaching an Unassigned TagAttaching Unassigned Plate or Tag
These combinations can increase your risk of Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO) status.
🚦 When a Ticket Becomes a Criminal Case
You might think it’s “just a traffic ticket,” but in Fort Lauderdale, expired tag cases can turn criminal quickly:
You previously paid a fine for this and now have a second violation
Your registration has been expired over 6 months
The officer believes you intentionally avoided registration
You were also cited for switched plates or improper insurance
That’s why it’s important to respond quickly and seek legal advice.
🛡️ Defenses to an Expired Tag Charge in Broward County
A Fort Lauderdale traffic defense attorney may be able to help you:
Reduce the charge to a civil infraction
Negotiate for a withhold of adjudication
Present proof of valid registration or renewal
Get the case dismissed through diversion
The earlier you act, the more options you have.
📍 Why Hire a Fort Lauderdale Criminal Traffic Lawyer?
Even a minor-seeming traffic case can cause lasting damage if it leads to a conviction. A clean driving record matters — especially when applying for jobs, housing, or professional licenses.
At Michael White, P.A., we help drivers resolve expired tag and registration charges in Fort Lauderdale and across South Florida. We’ll review your citation, DMV history, and negotiate to keep your record clean.
📞 Call (954) 270-0769 today for a free consultation.
🙋♂️ FAQs: Expired Tags and Criminal Charges in Fort Lauderdale
1. Can I be charged criminally for an expired tag in Florida?
Yes — if the tag has been expired more than six months and it’s your second offense.
2. What are the penalties for driving with an expired tag?
Up to 60 days in jail, 6 months of probation, and a $500 fine.
3. Will this go on my criminal record?
If convicted, yes. That’s why it’s critical to fight the charge or secure a withhold of adjudication.
4. Can I get this charge dropped?
Possibly. A lawyer can often get the charge reduced to a non-criminal ticket or dismissed.
5. Do I need a lawyer for this?
Yes. What seems like a simple ticket can become a criminal charge with lasting consequences.