Being stopped and ticketed for driving without a valid license in Bakersfield can lead to serious legal consequences.
If you're behind the wheel without proper authorization, law enforcement won’t take it lightly. This can be charged as a misdemeanor crime, although it is often charged as infraction.
A wobbler has the characteristics of a misdemeanor but might not raise to the level of severity to warrant a criminal record if convicted.
Therefore, the prosecutor, or in rare occasions, the judge, might choose to lower it to an infraction with the defendant’s approval.
Always consult a traffic attorney with trial experience before accepting a deal.
Why You Need a California License
Once you establish residency in California, you're legally required to obtain a state-issued driver’s license.
Whether you're moving here from another country or U.S. state, the law applies the same way. Many drivers are unaware of this rule and often find out the hard way—usually during a traffic stop.
You are considered a California resident if you accept in-state tuition or have paid property tax in California.
You must change your driver’s license to California within ten days of meeting either of these requirements.
What Does the CA Vehicle Code Say?
Under CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 12500, Persons Required to Be Licensed, Exemptions, and Age Limits, operating a motor vehicle without a valid license is a criminal offense.
“A person may not drive a motor vehicle upon a highway, unless the person then holds a valid driver’s license issued under this code, except those persons who are expressly exempted under this code.”
It may be charged as either:
An infraction, with a fine up to $250, or
A misdemeanor, with penalties including up to six months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
Because it’s a “wobbler” charge, the outcome depends on the specific facts of your case. If the prosecutor or officer decides it’s more than a simple oversight, you could face criminal charges.
What Must the State Prove?
To convict someone of driving without a valid license, the State must establish all three elements:
The person was operating a vehicle on a public road or highway.
They did not possess a valid California driver’s license at the time.
They had no legal exception or authorization to drive without one.
Even if you simply forgot your license at home, the court must still weigh all facts.
Risks of Driving Without a Valid License in Kern County
Law enforcement in Kern County take driving without a valid license seriously.
Repeat offenders or those caught driving with suspended or revoked licenses face tougher consequences.
Charges can escalate quickly, especially if there are other offenses involved—like driving without insurance or reckless behavior.
Don’t Assume It’s Just a Fine
Many drivers think, “It’s just a ticket with a small fine,” but driving without a valid license can be prosecuted as a misdemeanor, could leave you with a criminal record, and could negatively affect your future.
A conviction might raise your insurance rates, impact employment, and create a permanent criminal record. Even first-time offenders shouldn’t take this lightly.
Driving Without a Valid License: What Can Happen in Bakersfield?
Sometimes, the judge may reduce the charges if you obtain a valid California driver’s license before the court date. But don’t count on that outcome.
Consult an experienced traffic attorney immediately and follow their guidance.
Consult Bigger & Harman About Driving Without a Valid License
When you're facing driving without a valid license charges in Kern County, experienced and knowledgeable representation matters.
A traffic ticket attorney with trial experience can challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, or push for a dismissal or infraction instead of a misdemeanor.
Our Bakersfield-based team understands how the local court system works. We've helped many Central Valley drivers with reduced charges, lower fines, and in many cases, a full dismissal.
At our law firm, we fight to keep your record clean and your driving privileges intact.
To potentially avoid a criminal record when charged with driving without a valid license at the Bakersfield Courthouse in Kern County, call Bigger & Harman at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español at 349-9755.
Alternatively, you could use our handy online contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section
Q: What if I just forgot my license at home?
A: You may still be cited, but if you can show you had a valid license at the time, the ticketing officer might sign off on your ticket. You can then pay the court clerk an admin fee to correct the situation.
Q: Can I go to jail for driving without a valid license in California?
A: Yes. If it’s charged as a misdemeanor, you could face up to six months in jail, probation, and/or a $1,000 fine. With legal help, first-time offenders may receive reduced penalties.
Q: Is driving with a suspended license the same as driving without one?
A: No. Driving with a suspended or revoked license often carries harsher penalties when it is proven the driver knew their license was suspended due to a prior offense.
References:
CA VC Section 12500, Persons Required to Be Licensed, Exemptions, and Age Limits.
The CA Driver Handbook English y Español.
Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2025—Bankrate.com.