Driving without License and Underage Driving

Home | Driving without License and Underage Driving

20,Feb 2024

Driving is a privilege with obligations. Obtaining and keeping a valid driver's license is one of these obligations for motorbikes with gear + four-wheeler vehicles, such as automobiles, after eighteen years, and for motorcycles without gear (capacity of up to 50 CC) with at least sixteen years (guardians' approval and their traffic knowledge required).

Unfortunately, a lot of people still drive underage and without a proper license, either out of choice or because of uncontrollable circumstances. Driving under the age of majority or without a valid license, however, can have serious consequences on your finances, safety, and social and legal consequences.

Let’s understand the legal consequences of underage driving or driving without a license.

Watch Now - Driving Without A License | Underage Driving - Motor Vehicle Act, 1988


Legal Consequences of Driving without a Valid License

Motor Vehicles Act is the legislation that controls the usage of motor vehicles on Indian roads. It has been updated from time to time to improve. The most recent change mandates that those who break the laws pay a steep penalty. For instance, if someone is caught driving without a license, they face a Rs 10,000 fine and the police would take their car. Similarly, several further legal consequences are given under –

1) Expiry of Driving License: The new Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019 allows a person to apply for the renewal of a driving license as soon as one year before to the license's expiration or as soon as one has passed.

2) Driving Without a License: The penalty for the use of unauthorized vehicles has been increased from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 5,000 under the new motor vehicle law. The fine for driving regardless of disqualification has increased to Rs 10,000, while the minimum penalty for driving without a license has increased to Rs 5,000 from Rs 500.

Underage Driving Rules & Fines: A Complete Guide

The Motor Vehicles Act of 1988 states that 18 is the legal driving age in India. If found operating a vehicle before turning eighteen, the driver is deemed to be underage and faces fines and penalties. The following are some issues associated with driving when underage:

Penalty

The penalties criteria for underage driving generally vary from state to state in India fines are the most common. The severity of the offence determines the maximum fine for underage driving, which can be anywhere between Rs. 500 and Rs. 5,000. The offender's driver's license may also be suspended or cancelled in certain situations.

Legal action

Underage drivers may be subject to penalties as well as legal action. An underage driver may be responsible for any injuries or damages resulting from an accident. In addition, they can be charged with reckless driving, face criminal charges, and endangering the lives of others.

Risk for the vehicle owner

It is significant to remember that the owner of the vehicle is equally subject to the penalty for underage driving. If a youngster is discovered operating someone else's car, the owner of the vehicle may also be held accountable and subject to fines and penalties.

To watch such interesting and informative videos, refer to the official YouTube channel of Lloyd Law College.

For more informative videos, refer to the Lloyd Law College's official YouTube Channel.