What is the typical penalty for driving under a suspended license in Ohio?

In Ohio, driving under a suspended license is considered a significant offense, typically classified as a first-degree misdemeanor. This classification allows for various penalties, which can include potential jail time and fines. Specifically, a first-degree misdemeanor can result in incarceration of up to 180 days in jail and a fine that can reach up to $1,000.

The severity of the penalty reflects the importance of maintaining strict adherence to licensing laws and the state's interest in ensuring public safety on the roadways. Convictions can also lead to additional license suspensions or other adverse consequences that can hinder an individual's ability to drive legally in the future.

The other options do not accurately reflect the seriousness of the offense in Ohio's legal framework. A fine only would not encompass the possible jail time associated with this violation, while a warning from law enforcement downplays the significance of driving on a suspended license. Lastly, classifying the penalty as a civil penalty does not align with Ohio's categorization of such offenses as misdemeanors, which are criminal in nature.