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TCA 39-14-106

Unauthorized use of automobiles and other vehicles – Joyriding

MISDEMEANOR AClass A Misdemeanor
Sentence enhancement may apply

What does this charge mean?

It is a Class A misdemeanor (up to 11 months 29 days jail and/or $2,500 fine) to take someone else's vehicle (car, plane, motorcycle, bike, boat, etc.) without permission, even if you only intend to use it temporarily and return it—this is commonly called "joyriding."

Penalty Details

ClassificationClass A Misdemeanor
Maximum Jail11 months 29 days
Maximum Fine$2,500
Penalty SummaryClass A misdemeanor; 11 months 29 days; fine up to $2,500
A person commits a Class A misdemeanor who takes another’s automobile, airplane, motorcycle, bicycle, boat or other vehicle without the consent of the owner and the person does not have the intent to deprive the owner thereof.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026

Quick Facts

MISDEMEANOR A
TCA Section39-14-106
Max Jail11 months 29 days
Max Fine$2,500
Recent Bookings8+

Geographic Distribution

Davidson
151
Knox
11
Shelby
9
Wayne
4
McMinn
2
Madison
2
Sullivan
1
Stewart
1
Scott
1
Putnam
1
Monroe
1
Lincoln
1

+ 6 more counties