California Vehicle Code 14601 – Driving on a Suspended License 

Overview 

California Vehicle Code 14601 VC makes it a crime to drive with a license that you know has been suspended or revoked. It’s one of the most commonly filed misdemeanors in California—and often comes with fines, possible jail time, and longer suspensions. 

At Jones Trial Attorneys, we’ve defended hundreds of clients charged with driving on a suspended license. Whether your suspension was never properly communicated or you’re being over-penalized for a past mistake, we fight to get the charge dismissed or reduced—and get you back on the road legally. 

Legal Definition 

Vehicle Code § 14601(a) states: 

“No person shall drive a motor vehicle at any time when that person’s driving privilege is suspended or revoked… if the person has knowledge of the suspension or revocation.” 

The law includes several sub-sections depending on why the license was suspended: 

• 14601(a) – Suspended for reckless driving 

• 14601.1(a) – General suspension or revocation 

• 14601.2(a) – Suspension due to DUI (stricter penalties) 

• 14601.5 – Suspension due to refusal of chemical test or excessive BAC 

Elements of the Crime 

To convict someone under VC 14601, the prosecution must prove: 

1. You drove a motor vehicle; 

2. Your license was suspended or revoked; 

3. You knew about the suspension or revocation at the time. 

Knowledge can be shown through DMV notices, court orders, or prior law enforcement contact. 

Penalties for Driving on a Suspended License 

VC 14601 is a misdemeanor, but penalties depend on the reason for the suspension: 

Standard VC 14601/14601.1 

• Up to 6 months in county jail 

• Fines up to $1,000 

• Probation 

• Longer license suspension 

• Impoundment of your vehicle 

VC 14601.2 – Suspension Due to DUI 

• 10 days to 6 months in jail 

• Up to $2,000 in fines 

• Mandatory installation of ignition interlock device (IID) 

• Probation for up to 3 years 

Multiple prior violations can lead to mandatory jail time and habitual traffic offender status. 

Defenses to VC 14601 Charges 

Many of these cases hinge on whether you actually knew your license was suspended. Common defenses include: 

• Lack of knowledge – You were never properly notified by the DMV 

• Suspension was lifted – You had reinstated your license but records weren’t updated 

• Emergency driving – You were driving due to a true emergency 

• Unlawful traffic stop – Police lacked a valid reason to pull you over 

• Clerical or DMV error – Suspension was issued in error 

We often get these charges dismissed or reduced—especially for first-time or good-faith violations. 

Immigration and Employment Consequences 

While not a crime of moral turpitude, a 14601 conviction can still impact: 

• Commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders 

• Insurance rates and driving privileges 

• Government and transportation jobs 

• Immigration status (in DUI-related cases) 

We resolve these charges with your livelihood and long-term goals in mind. 

Related Offenses 

• VC 12500 – Driving Without a License 

Used when someone never had a valid California license 

• VC 23152 – DUI 

Often the reason for the original suspension 

• VC 20002 – Hit and Run (Property Damage Only) 

Sometimes paired with license suspension cases 

How Jones Trial Attorneys Can Help 

We know how frustrating and confusing license suspensions can be—especially when tied to DMV mistakes, missed notices, or financial hardship. We push for dismissals, diversion, and back-end license reinstatement assistance to resolve your case quickly and cleanly. 

💼 Free consultations 

⚖️ Trial-tested representation 

📍 Local San Diego firm with deep courtroom experience 

Talk to a Traffic Defense Attorney Today 

Call us now at (866) JTA-WINS or Schedule a Free Consultation using the form below.