Indy Standard

A bill aimed at increasing criminal penalties for unlicensed drivers has advanced to the governor's desk. The legislation, co-authored by State Representative Jim Lucas from Seymour, seeks to enhance punishments for individuals driving without ever obtaining a license, particularly when such drivers cause bodily harm, catastrophic injury, or fatalities. Under the new provisions in House Enrolled Act 1114, these offenses could be classified as a Level 5 or 6 felony.

Presently, driving without a license in Indiana is penalized as a Class C misdemeanor. Should the individual have a prior unrelated conviction, the charge can escalate to a Class A misdemeanor. Representative Lucas highlighted a tragic case from last March involving 27-year-old Brad Castner of Holton, who was involved in a fatal head-on collision with an unlicensed driver. Lucas noted that, under existing law, such drivers can only be charged with a maximum of a Class A misdemeanor unless other circumstances warrant a different charge.

"Unfortunately, this bill follows a life being lost in our local communities from a tragic accident," Lucas expressed. "Our hope is that through these increased penalties, we could dissuade unlicensed drivers from getting on the road, ensuring safer travel."

The Indiana Office of Court Services data between 2020 and 2024 show 2,697 convictions recorded for driving without a driver's license, categorized as either a Class A or Class C misdemeanor. Moreover, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported nearly 11,000 fatal crashes involving unlicensed drivers in 2021.

Further details regarding House Enrolled Act 1114 and related sessions can be accessed at iga.in.gov.