Driving on a Suspended License in California: Vehicle Code 14601

Which section applies

The Vehicle Code has several related offenses. Section 14601 covers driving when the license is suspended or revoked for certain reasons, such as reckless driving or being a negligent operator. Section 14601.1 covers suspensions and revocations for other reasons. Section 14601.2 applies when the suspension or revocation is related to DUI, and section 14601.5 applies to suspensions after a chemical test refusal or an administrative per se action.

Each section is generally a misdemeanor, and a conviction can carry consequences that grow with prior convictions. In many cases the prosecution must show that you knew about the suspension. A DMV notice mailed to your address, or being told by a court, can be used as evidence of that knowledge. Driving without ever having had a valid license is a different offense.

What can happen at the stop

An officer who finds that your license is suspended can cite you and, in many cases, have the vehicle impounded, even if it belongs to someone else. Getting the car back can take time and money, and the owner may need to go to the police agency that ordered the impound.

The citation itself is a promise to appear in court on the date shown. Because this is a misdemeanor, the case is handled on the criminal side of the court, not through the ordinary traffic payment process.

• Keep the citation and any impound paperwork.
• Request your driver record to see the reason and dates of the suspension.
• Do not drive again until the license is reinstated.

Fixing the license and the case

Often the most useful step is finding out why the license was suspended. It may be an unresolved ticket or failure to appear, an insurance requirement, a DUI-related action or a medical review. Some causes can be fixed quickly, for example by resolving an old case or filing proof of insurance. You can request your driver record online from the DMV.

Showing the court that the license has been reinstated can matter for the outcome of the case. A criminal defense attorney can review the record, check whether you received proper notice and explain options for the court date.