Transportation (Driver Licensing)

HB 1414 lowers the penalty for driving with an invalid license from a Class B misdemeanor (punishable by up to 180 days in jail) to a Class C misdemeanor (a fine only) for most cases. It directly affects drivers whose licenses are suspended or revoked for specific offenses listed in the bill, such as drug violations, theft, or tampering with vehicle tags. The bill amends Texas law to clarify that the reduced penalty applies to offenses under Transportation Code Section 521.457, repealing the previous Class B misdemeanor classification. This change takes effect September 1, 2025, and only applies to offenses committed on or after that date.