Yes. Florida Statute 322.36, Permitting Unauthorized Operator to Drive, states: "A person may not authorize or knowingly permit a motor vehicle owned by him or her or under his or her dominion or control to be operated upon any highway or public street except by a person who is duly authorized to operate a motor vehicle." If a person violates this statute they commit a second degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail.
In addition to facing criminal sanctions, if there is property damage or injury, then the owner of the car may also have his or her driver's license suspended for one year.
This charge may be difficult for the state to prove absent statements made by the defendant admitting that he or she is the owner of the car, he or she loaned the car to the unlicensed driver or otherwise allowed the person to drive, and/or he or she knew that the person's license was suspended.
Call (941) 444-5128 to speak with an attorney for a free consultation.
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