If you’ve been stopped and charged with No Valid Driver’s License (NVDL) in Fort Lauderdale, you might be surprised to learn it’s a criminal offense — not a simple ticket. Even first-time violations can result in a misdemeanor, a permanent record, and unexpected consequences for immigration, employment, or future driving privileges.
Here’s what you need to know, and how a Fort Lauderdale criminal traffic lawyer can help you fight the charge and protect your record.
⚖️ What Is “No Valid Driver’s License” Under Florida Law?
Under Fla. Stat. § 322.03(1) , it is a crime to drive a motor vehicle in Florida without a valid license issued by the state or a recognized foreign jurisdiction.
You can be charged with NVDL if:
You never had a license
You’re a new Florida resident who hasn’t transferred your license
You’re using an expired foreign license
You’re ineligible to receive a license due to age, immigration status, or revocation
This is not the same as driving with a suspended license — that charge assumes you once had a valid license.
⚖️ What Is “No Valid Driver’s License” Under Florida Law?
Under Fla. Stat. § 322.03(1) , it is a crime to drive a motor vehicle in Florida without a valid license issued by the state or a recognized foreign jurisdiction.
You can be charged with NVDL if:
You never had a license
You’re a new Florida resident who hasn’t transferred your license
You’re using an expired foreign license
You’re ineligible to receive a license due to age, immigration status, or revocation
This is not the same as driving with a suspended license — that charge assumes you once had a valid license.
🚨 Criminal Penalties in Fort Lauderdale
In Broward County, No Valid Driver’s License is typically charged as a second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by:
Up to 60 days in jail
Up to 6 months of probation
A $500 fine
A criminal record that may not be sealable or expungable
Even though jail is uncommon for a first offense, the long-term damage to your record and reputation can be significant.
🌍 Immigration Consequences for NVDL
Many NVDL charges in South Florida involve undocumented immigrants or visa holders who cannot legally obtain a license.
While NVDL alone isn’t a deportable offense, it can trigger immigration enforcement — especially when paired with other charges like:
No insurance
Unassigned tag
Fleeing the scene of an accident
If you’re a non-citizen, it’s critical to work with an attorney who understands both criminal and immigration exposure.
🔗 Is your loved one facing an ICE Detainer? We may be able to help.
🛡️ Defenses to No Valid License Charges
A Fort Lauderdale traffic attorney can fight NVDL charges by showing:
You had a valid out-of-state or international license
The stop was unlawful
You weren’t in actual physical control of the vehicle
You have since obtained a valid Florida license
There were errors in the DMV system
You may also qualify for pretrial diversion, which can result in dismissal of the charge.
👨⚖️ Why Hire a Fort Lauderdale NVDL Lawyer?
Pleading guilty to this charge may seem easy — but it can permanently impact your:
Immigration status
Ability to get a license later
Job opportunities
Insurance rates
At Michael White, P.A., we represent clients throughout Fort Lauderdale and Broward County who’ve been charged with NVDL and other criminal traffic violations. We fight to protect your record and get you back on the road legally.
📞 Call (954) 270-0769 now for a free consultation.
🙋♂️ FAQs: No Valid Driver’s License in Fort Lauderdale
1. Is driving without a license a crime in Florida?
Yes — NVDL is a criminal offense under Fla. Stat. § 322.03.
2. What if I had a license from another country?
You may have a defense. Florida recognizes some foreign licenses, depending on status and duration of stay.
3. What are the penalties for NVDL?
It’s a second-degree misdemeanor, with up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.
4. Will this go on my record permanently?
If adjudicated guilty, yes. However, diversion or a withhold of adjudication may help avoid that outcome.
5. Do I need a lawyer for this charge?
Absolutely. A lawyer may be able to avoid a conviction, keep your record clean, and even get the charge dropped.