Driving Without a License: Laws and Possible Consequences
Driving without a license is considered a serious crime in Turkey. In this blog post, we will discuss the legal aspects of driving without a license, its possible consequences, and the points to be considered to avoid this situation.
1. Legal Status of Driving Without a License
Turkish Penal Code: Driving without a license is regulated in Article 179 of the Turkish Penal Code. According to this article, people who drive without a license can be tried in a criminal court.
Road Traffic Law: Article 36 of the Highway Traffic Law No. 2918 prohibits driving without a license. Drivers who do not comply with this prohibition may be fined.
2. Possible Penal Sanctions
Fine: The most common consequence of driving without a license is a fine. As of 2024, this fine varies between approximately 5,000 TL and 10,000 TL.
Example: If a person is caught driving without a license as a result of a traffic police stop, that person may face a fine of at least 5,000 TL.
Traffic Penalty Points: Although a person driving without a license is not given a penalty point because they do not have a driver’s license, recording this situation may affect future legal proceedings.
Imprisonment: Repeated offenses or driving without a license as a result of a serious accident may result in imprisonment.
Example: If an unlicensed driver causes an accident and harms others as a result of this accident, the court may sentence them to 1 to 3 years in prison.
3. Material and Moral Responsibilities
Material Damages: People who cause an accident while driving without a license may be liable to compensate the material damages of the parties injured in the accident.
Example: If a person causes an accident by driving without a license, the vehicle owner or passenger may take legal action to compensate for the material damages.
Non-pecuniary Damages: Those involved in the accident may also request compensation for non-pecuniary damages.
Example: A person injured as a result of an accident may file a non-pecuniary damages lawsuit against an unlicensed driver.
4. Insurance Status
Insurance Coverage: A person driving an unlicensed vehicle cannot benefit from an insurance policy at the time of the accident. In this case, insurance companies may not cover compensation claims.
Example: The insurance company of a driver who has an accident without a license may avoid paying compensation.
5. Driver’s License Obtaining Process
Driver’s License Obtaining Requirements: Individuals who want to obtain a driver’s license must complete certain trainings and successfully pass written and practical exams.
Process and Cost: The process and costs to be followed to obtain a driver’s license in Turkey, driving school, exam fees and other fees should be taken into consideration.
6. Preventive Measures
Education and Awareness Raising: Public awareness campaigns can be organized to prevent unlicensed vehicle use.
Traffic Controls: Stricter controls by police and traffic teams can help prevent unlicensed drivers.
