Texas Penal Code § 31.07 – “Joyriding” Is a Felony in Texas
In Texas, Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle (UUMV) occurs when a person intentionally or knowingly operates another’s car, truck, boat, aircraft, or heavy equipment without the effective consent of the owner.
No intent to permanently keep the vehicle is required. Simply driving it without permission—even for five minutes—makes it a felony.
Punishment
- State Jail Felony: 180 days – 2 years in state jail + up to $10,000 fine
- If you have prior theft or UUMV convictions → Third-degree felony (2–10 years)
- If the vehicle is damaged, wrecked, or used in another crime → additional charges stack on
Common Ways People Get Charged
- Borrowing a friend’s, parent’s, or ex’s car without clear permission
- Taking a work truck or company van after hours
- Keeping a rental car past the return date (rental companies routinely press charges)
- Driving a car you co-signed on after the owner reports it stolen in a dispute
- Teenagers taking the family car when grounded
Police and prosecutors treat UUMV as a “gateway” felony—easy to prove and often used to hold people while bigger charges are built.
Why You Need Barton & Associates Immediately
UUMV cases look simple but destroy lives. A single conviction means no more decent jobs, apartments, or professional licenses—and it’s a favorite charge for high bonds and “no bond” holds when police suspect gang or drug activity.
At Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, our board-certified criminal defense team has dismissed or reduced hundreds of UUMV cases by:
- Proving actual consent (text messages, prior use, implied permission)
- Showing the owner is lying to punish an ex, child, or roommate
- Negotiating civil compromises with the owner before indictment
- Reducing to Class C “permitting unauthorized use” ticket when evidence is weak
- Fighting unlawful traffic stops and searches that led to the arrest
We answer 24/7 and start contacting the owner and prosecutor before the case is even filed.
If you or someone you love has been arrested for Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle (UUMV) in Texas, contact Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law for a free, confidential consultation.
