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Driving without a valid driver’s licence in Alberta is a serious offence that can lead to severe consequences. Whether your licence is suspended, expired, or you’ve never been licensed, the risks of getting behind the wheel are substantial.
This article outlines what can happen if you’re caught driving without proper licensing in Edmonton, emphasizing the importance of adhering to driver licensing laws.
What to Do If Your Licence Is Expired or Suspended
If your licence is expired or suspended, it’s crucial to address this situation promptly. Driving with an expired licence is also a legal offence, though typically less severe than driving without being licensed.
For those with suspended licences, it’s essential to understand the terms of the suspension and take steps to regain your driving privileges legally, which may involve completing a reinstatement process.
Penalties for Unlicensed Driving
Driving offences, particularly those involving operating a vehicle without a valid licence, are taken very seriously in Alberta. The penalties for such violations, including driving with a suspended licence, unauthorized driving, or driving when prohibited, are severe and include:
- Fines – Monetary penalties are often the first level of punishment for unlicensed driving.
- Arrest – In more severe cases, especially if it’s a repeated offence, the police may arrest the individual.
- Vehicle Seizure – Law enforcement has the authority to seize and impound your vehicle, adding further inconvenience and financial burden.
- Imprisonment – For severe or recurrent violations, imprisonment is a potential consequence.
- Increased Insurance Rates – Being caught driving without a licence can lead to increased car insurance rates. In some cases, insurers may refuse to provide coverage, given the heightened risk associated with unlicensed driving.
Licence Renewals
It’s your responsibility as a driver to renew your licence in a registry ahead of the expiration date. Because it’s often hard to remember one, two, or even five years in advance, you can sign up with My Alberta eServices, and you will receive a handy reminder when your licence needs a renewal.
Licence Suspensions – You may have too many demerit points or an alcohol-related suspension. Whatever the case, you may qualify for the Restricted Driver’s Licence Program.
There are eligibility requirements to be accepted into this program. More information is available here. You can do this at the registry if you need to reinstate your licence suspension. A licence reinstatement fee will apply, ranging from $50 to $250, which must be paid in person.
Riverbend Registry: Simplifying Your Licence Renewal Process
Driving without a licence in Edmonton is a serious matter with significant consequences. Proper licensing and adherence to the rules of the road are vital for the safety of all road users.
If you want to learn more about the step by step of renewing your licence in Alberta, read this article.
At Riverbend Registry, we provide exceptional service to make it easy to get back on the road or maintain your daily driving without any hassles or unexpected fees. We offer a wide selection of driver licensing services, so you can do all you need in one visit. Yes, a one-stop shop on your lunch break rush to get your registration sticker on your plate before the deadline. Or, you’re finally ready to take that road test!