The Law Behind Expired License Charges

Under RCW 46.20.005 and RCW 46.20.021, all Washington drivers must have a valid, current license to legally operate a vehicle. Once a license expires, there is no grace period, driving on it becomes unlawful. In most first-time cases, an expired license is treated as a traffic infraction, but when the lapse is extended or the driver has prior violations, it can be elevated to a misdemeanor, which carries far greater consequences.

The reasoning behind these laws is straightforward: Washington’s licensing requirements are designed to ensure all drivers meet basic safety and identification standards. The courts expect drivers to keep their information current, and repeated lapses can be viewed as neglecting that responsibility.

Potential Penalties and Court Outcomes

For a standard expired license citation, drivers can expect a fine of up to $250. However, if the license has been expired for an extended period or the driver has previous violations, the offense can become a misdemeanor, punishable by:

  • Up to 90 days in jail, and/or
  • A fine of up to $1,000.

Judges often take a driver’s intent and corrective action into account. If you renew your license promptly and appear in court with proof of renewal, the court may reduce the fine or dismiss the infraction entirely. On the other hand, ignoring the citation or continuing to drive without a valid license can lead to a suspended license, additional fees, or more serious penalties.

Renewing and Reinstating Your License

The Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) makes it relatively easy to renew or reinstate a license, either online, by mail, or in person. To complete renewal, you generally must:

  1. Pay any outstanding fines or renewal fees;
  2. Provide updated proof of identification and Washington residency; and
  3. Complete any vision or knowledge tests required if your license has been expired for over one year.

Once your license is renewed, you should bring documentation to your court hearing or submit it to the court clerk. Judges typically view prompt compliance as a good-faith effort to correct the issue and may close the case with a reduced penalty.

Why Prompt Action Matters

Even though an expired license charge might seem minor, failing to resolve it can create lasting consequences. Unpaid fines can lead to a suspended license, which in turn can escalate future charges. Keeping your license current also helps avoid higher insurance premiums and ensures compliance with Washington’s driver responsibility standards.

At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we often see drivers who could have avoided criminal charges by acting quickly and providing proof of renewal. The sooner you address the issue, the more likely the court will treat it as a simple administrative mistake rather than a willful violation.

The Bottom Line

An expired driver’s license is more than an inconvenience, it’s a legal matter that Washington courts take seriously. If you’ve been cited or charged for driving on an expired license, taking immediate steps to renew and consulting an experienced Washington defense attorney can help you minimize penalties and protect your driving record.

The Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer represents clients throughout Southwest Washington in traffic, criminal, and licensing matters. Our firm can help you navigate the court process, resolve outstanding citations, and ensure your driving privileges remain intact.