Obtaining an Out-of-State Licenses After Being Suspended in Illinois

 Posted on January 16, 2020 in License Suspension

Law enforcement departments in Illinois have noticed a disturbing trend. After being convicted of a DUI, individuals visit another state for the purpose of obtaining out-of-state licenses after being suspended in Illinois. A man in Romeoville just tried this exact ploy. After his license was suspended after being convicted of multiple DUIs, he visited Iowa to get a new one. After he did, he returned to Illinois before being pulled over and charged again with a DUI.

Police in Illinois say that this is not actually all that unusual. It is becoming a recurring trend and one that they obviously want to stop. Drivers that are thinking about trying the scheme should know that it comes with serious penalties.

The Driver’s License Interstate Compact

There is a reason people can simply go to another state to obtain a driver’s license after theirs is suspended in their home state. That reason is because of the Interstate Driver’s License Compact. This contract tells all states to uphold a driver’s license suspension, even if it occurred out of state. The only states that do not take part of the contract are Georgia, Massachusetts, Michigan, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.

Due to this, it is not known how so many people are going to states that neighbor Illinois and getting a license. However, for those that do, there are some real penalties that come with it.

Penalties for Obtaining a False License

If your driver’s license is suspended or revoked in Illinois, you are expected to stay off the roads, within the state and outside of it. If you are caught driving on a revoked or suspended license, even if you obtained a new license in a different state, there are consequences. The first of these is the penalty you will face for any driving infraction you were pulled over for. For example, in the most recent story, the man will face penalties for drunk driving.

However, you will also face penalties for driving with a false license. You may face a charge of a Class A misdemeanor, which has penalties of up to one year in jail and a maximum fine of $2,500. You may also be charged, depending on the alleged crime, with a Class 4 felony. In this instance, you will face anywhere between one to three years in jail and a maximum fine of $25,000.

These consequences are very serious. Typically, the Secretary of State will determine whether or not you will face these charges, as law enforcement has requested in the most recent case.

Charged with Carrying a False License? Call Our Illinois Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you have been charged with a DUI, carrying a false license, or any other crime, you need the help of a skilled Rolling Meadows criminal defense lawyer. At the Law Offices of Christopher M. Cosley, we know how to defend these charges, make sure your rights are upheld and give you the best chance of a positive outcome. Call us today at 847-394-3200 for your free consultation so we can start building you a strong defense, and so we can help with your case.

Source:

https://patch.com/illinois/lagrange/dui-suspect-got-false-license-riverside-cops