Legal Question in Traffic Law in District of Columbia

Arrested for expired vehicle registration

I was driving to work Tues morning, 3.25.08, at 6:45AM and was being followed for about 5 minutes by a cop. He pulled me over and asked for my license and registration. I found out at that point that my registration had expired (actually is was exactly 6 months expired). He told me it was a lockable offense and arrested me, handcuffs and all. I paid $50 and was able to get out after photos, prints, and background chack. I don't know the traffic law and cannot seem to find it written that this IS a lockable offense.


Asked on 3/31/08, 3:01 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: Arrested for expired vehicle registration

Yep, Sec. 50-1501-04(a)of the DC Motor Vehicle Code outlines the

violation for operating any unregistered motor vehicle or trailer upon any public highway of the District of Columbia and (b)(1)imposes a possible penalty for such violation of a fine of not more than $1000 or imprisonment of not more than 30 days or both...

Yes, operating an unregistered vehicle in DC is clearly a "lockable" offense; the question remains, however, as to why the officer decided to make it an arrestable offense against you when he apparently could've merely issued you a citation.

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Answered on 3/31/08, 8:40 pm


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