Let’s be honest; most of the U.S. requires people to use cars to get around efficiently. Without one, completing daily living tasks can be a real challenge. However, there are several lesser-known ways people can lose their driver’s license in the U.S. Here are five.

Graffiti and vandalism

Certain states, such as California and Texas, allow suspension of a driver’s license if a person is convicted of graffiti or vandalism. This is part of broader measures to deter vandalism by imposing more severe consequences on those who engage in it.

Littering

In Louisiana and Maryland, repeat littering offenses can lead to a driver’s license suspension. If a person is convicted of littering multiple times within a certain period, they may face license suspension as part of the penalties. This law aims to curb environmental pollution by imposing strict consequences on habitual offenders.

School truancy

Students can lose their driving privileges in some states due to excessive, unexcused school absences. States like Texas and Georgia have laws that link school attendance to driving privileges. If a student misses a certain number of school days without valid excuses, their license can be suspended until they improve their attendance.

Unpaid traffic tickets or court fines

While it may seem straightforward, many are unaware that failing to pay traffic tickets or court fines can lead to driver’s license suspension. In some states, even unpaid parking tickets can result in this consequence. For example, accumulating too many unpaid parking tickets in New York can trigger a suspension.

Underage drinking

While driving under the influence is a well-known cause for license suspension, being caught drinking underage can also lead to losing driving privileges in many states. In Pennsylvania, for instance, minors caught drinking or possessing alcohol could have their driver’s licenses suspended. This is true even if they were not driving at the time. In 2018, however, the state law changed to cease suspending licenses so the convicted person could still attend school or get to work. Still, dozens of states have mandatory or discretionary suspensions for underage drinkers.

These unusual ways Americans can lose their driver’s license highlight the importance of understanding the laws in your state. A suspended license impacts your ability to attend work or school or function easily in areas that pretty much require you to have a car to get around.

Sources: National Conference of State Legislatures, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism