Driving Without a License Happens More Often Than You Think — Especially in Anne Arundel County.
Many people charged with “Driving Without a License” in Anne Arundel County never planned to break the law. Some believed their license was still valid, others recently moved to Maryland and didn’t know about the 60-day conversion rule, and many were simply trying to get to work, care for their families, or handle an urgent situation. Unfortunately, Maryland treats this as a criminal offense — not just a simple ticket. In these cases, guidance from an experienced Anne Arundel County Traffic Lawyer can be critical.
The Law Offices of David R. Waranch has helped countless drivers throughout Anne Arundel County resolve these charges with minimal impact on their future. Whether your stop happened in Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Pasadena, Odenton, Crofton, Edgewater, or Arnold — we apply the same defense approach used by a seasoned Maryland Traffic Lawyer to get ahead of the case and protect you in court.
We also defend closely related charges such as Driving While Revoked, Driving While Suspended, and Driving Without Insurance.
What “Driving Without a License” Means in Maryland
Under Maryland Transportation §16-101, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle on any public road without a valid Maryland license. Police departments in Anne Arundel County — including Annapolis Police, Maryland State Police, and county officers — frequently issue this charge during traffic stops, accident responses, or vehicle checks.
You may face this charge if you:
- Never obtained a driver’s license in any state
- Allowed your Maryland license to expire
- Recently moved to Maryland and did not convert your license within 60 days
- Were relying on an international license that is no longer valid under Maryland law
This is a must-appear criminal citation, meaning you cannot resolve it by paying online. You must appear in the Anne Arundel County District Court in either Annapolis or Glen Burnie, depending on where you were stopped.
Penalties for a first offense may include:
- Up to 60 days in jail
- Fines up to $500
- Up to 5 driving points
- Future difficulty obtaining a Maryland license
Repeat offenses can lead to up to one year in jail. Getting ahead of the issue is critical.
The Different Types of Driving Without a License Charges
Not all “Driving Without a License” charges are treated the same in Anne Arundel County. Understanding the exact citation is the first step toward building a strong defense.
- No License in Possession — You are licensed but didn’t have it with you. This can often be corrected.
- Never Licensed — You have never held a valid license in any state.
- Expired License — Your license expired and your driving privilege was removed.
- Suspended or Revoked License — A more serious charge. See our Driving While Suspended and Driving While Revoked pages.
- Out-of-State License Not Converted — New Maryland residents must convert their out-of-state license within 60 days.
Each version of the charge requires a different strategy — whether that means correcting paperwork, obtaining a new license, or challenging the stop itself.
Why You Need an Anne Arundel County Traffic Lawyer
Because this charge is a criminal offense, not a standard traffic ticket, having a knowledgeable attorney is essential. Our firm understands how Anne Arundel County judges view license-related cases — and what steps help reduce or dismiss the charges.
- Challenge the legality of the stop — If the stop was unconstitutional, the case may be dismissed.
- Negotiate reduced charges — including non-jailable alternatives.
- Assist you in obtaining a valid license before your court date.
- Appear in the Annapolis or Glen Burnie District Court on your behalf.
- Prepare mitigation materials to show responsibility and good faith.
For many clients, this approach results in no jail time, no permanent record, and in some cases, complete dismissal.
Where We Handle Driving Without a License Cases in Anne Arundel County
We represent clients throughout Anne Arundel County, including:
- Annapolis
- Glen Burnie
- Severna Park
- Pasadena
- Odenton
- Crofton
- Edgewater
- Arnold
Whether you were stopped along Route 50, Ritchie Highway, Aris T. Allen Boulevard, Forest Drive, or anywhere in the county, we understand how these cases move through the local courts.
Related Traffic Services in Anne Arundel County
- Driving While Suspended
- Driving While Revoked
- Driving Without Insurance
- DUI Defense
- Bench Warrants
- Maryland Traffic Lawyer
Maryland Counties We Serve
- Montgomery County
- Baltimore County
- Anne Arundel County
- Prince George’s County
- Howard County
- Frederick County
Take the First Step Today
Driving without a license can lead to fines, jail time, and long-term consequences — but with the right legal strategy, many cases can be reduced or dismissed entirely. Acting quickly gives you the best chance at a positive outcome.
Call 301-563-9575 or visit www.davidwaranch.com to schedule your free consultation.
Law Offices of David R. Waranch — Trusted Traffic Defense for Anne Arundel County.
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