HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Did you know that Hawaiʻi is the strictest state in the United States when it comes to unlicensed drivers?
A new study has found that Hawaiʻi gives the toughest punishments to drivers caught without a valid license. Let's learn more about this and what it means for drivers in Hawaiʻi.
Strict punishments in Hawaiʻi
In Hawaiʻi, if you're caught driving without a license, you can face severe penalties. The state has an index score of 26.57, the lowest score, indicating the harshest punishments.
Here’s what can happen to unlicensed drivers in Hawaiʻi:
- First offense: If it's your first time being caught, you could be sent to jail for anywhere from three to 30 days. You'll also have to pay a fine between $250 and $1,000, and your license suspension will be extended by one year.
- Second offense: For a second offense, the punishment is more severe. You could spend 30 days in jail, pay a $1,000 fine, and have your license suspension extended by two years.
- Subsequent offenses: If you continue to drive without a license and get caught again, you could be imprisoned for a year, fined $2,000, and lose your license permanently.
Comparing to other states
Hawaiʻi isn’t alone in giving strict punishments to unlicensed drivers. Here are some other states with tough penalties:
- Kentucky: Ranks second with an index score of 39.85. First-time offenders can spend at least 90 days in jail.
- Delaware: Comes third with a score of 48.95. Offenders can face 30 days to six months in jail and may have their vehicle impounded.
Why are these penalties so strict?
The strict laws are designed to keep roads safe.
Driving without a license is illegal because it often means the driver hasn’t passed necessary tests to prove they can drive safely.
By imposing tough penalties, Hawaiʻi aims to discourage people from driving without a license and to reduce accidents caused by unqualified drivers.
What should you do?
If you’re in Hawaiʻi, it’s important to make sure your driver’s license is always valid. If your license is suspended, revoked or canceled.
Don’t drive until you’ve legally resolved the issue.
Not only will this keep you out of trouble, but it also ensures the safety of everyone on the road.
Hawaiʻi takes unlicensed driving very seriously. The state's strict penalties are in place to deter people from driving without a license and to promote road safety.
To read more about this study, click here.
Always ensure you have a valid license before getting behind the wheel to avoid these harsh punishments. Remember, driving responsibly helps keep everyone safe!