7.711 — DRIVING ON A SUSPENDED LICENSE WITH KNOWLEDGE
Violations of "Statute 7.711" results in a Class D Misdemeanor with receiving an additional license point(s) of 4.
(a) Definitions
Driving on a suspended license with knowledge is defined as operating a motor vehicle on a public roadway while knowing that the driver's license has been suspended or revoked due to previous violations, legal actions, or non-compliance with traffic regulations. The individual must be aware that their license is suspended at the time of driving.
(b) Elements
To establish the offense of driving on a suspended license with knowledge, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt the following elements:
The defendant was operating a motor vehicle on a public road or highway.
The defendant’s driver's license was suspended or revoked at the time of the offense.
The defendant knew, or reasonably should have known, that their license had been suspended or revoked.
The defendant continued to drive despite having knowledge of the suspension or revocation, without a valid license or permission to operate the vehicle.
(c) Defenses
Defenses against a charge of driving on a suspended license with knowledge may include:
The defendant was unaware that their license had been suspended due to a failure to receive or recognize official notifications regarding the suspension.
The defendant had been told by law enforcement, or another authorized party, that their license was no longer suspended and that they were legally permitted to drive.
The defendant was driving in an emergency situation and had no other reasonable means of transportation.
(d) Aggravating Factors
The court may consider the following aggravating factors when determining the severity of the offense:
The defendant has a history of multiple license suspensions or revocations.
The defendant was driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, making the offense more dangerous.
The defendant’s driving on a suspended license led to an accident, injury, or significant property damage.
The defendant was operating the vehicle with a suspended license in a reckless or aggressive manner, endangering other road users.
Last updated