Iowa City Man Charged for Driving Without Valid License

Repeat offender faces up to 2 years in jail for latest violations.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 4:30pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a car key against a pitch-black background, the key's metallic surface and grooves sharply illuminated by a harsh, direct camera flash, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.A single car key serves as a stark symbol of the risks posed by unlicensed drivers on the road.Iowa City Today

A 36-year-old Iowa City man was arrested on Sunday morning and charged with driving without a valid license. David Cox was pulled over for using an electronic device while driving and was found to be barred as a habitual violator and have multiple prior OWI revocations. If convicted on both charges, Cox could face up to 3 years in prison.

Why it matters

Driving without a license is a serious offense that can endanger public safety, especially for repeat offenders with a history of drunk driving violations. This case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in keeping unlicensed and dangerous drivers off the roads.

The details

Police stopped David Cox on Sunday around 10:45 AM near the intersection of US 6 and 25th Avenue for using an electronic device while driving. A check of his license found he was barred as a habitual violator through June 2027 and had 3 prior OWI revocations, the most recent until October 2030. Cox also had 4 suspensions for non-payment of Iowa fines. He allegedly admitted to police that he did not have a valid driver's license and was texting his child's mother.

  • On Sunday, April 13, 2026 around 10:45 AM, police stopped Cox.
  • Cox is barred as a habitual violator through June 2027.
  • Cox's most recent OWI revocation is until October 2030.

The players

David Cox

A 36-year-old Iowa City resident who was charged with driving without a valid license and faces up to 3 years in prison if convicted.

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What they’re saying

“Cox told police he was texting his child's mother, and allegedly admitted to not having a valid driver's license.”

— David Cox

What’s next

The judge will decide on Cox's bail and whether he will be allowed to await trial outside of jail.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for stronger enforcement and penalties for repeat offenders who continue to drive without a valid license, putting public safety at risk. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of license suspension and revocation policies in preventing dangerous drivers from getting behind the wheel.