Tiger Woods Gets 5-Year Driving Ban After Plea Deal

Tiger Woods has resolved his legal case from a March rollover crash, avoiding jail time but losing his driving privileges for five years. The golf legend pleaded no contest to a reckless driving charge in a Florida courtroom on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, accepting a plea agreement that saw more serious charges dropped.

What were the terms of Tiger Woods's plea deal?

Woods appeared in Martin County court with his girlfriend, Vanessa Trump, by his side. He changed his plea from not guilty to no contest for charges of willful, wanton reckless driving, a second offense, and a careless driving citation. In exchange, the initial charge of driving under the influence was reduced.

Judge Laura Johnson ordered his driver's license suspended for five years. Woods also pleaded no contest to refusing to submit to testing and was ordered to pay court costs. He left the courthouse without speaking to reporters.

What happened in the March crash?

The incident occurred on Jupiter Island in March 2026. Woods was driving his Land Rover at a high rate of speed when he clipped a truck and the vehicle rolled onto its side. He managed to crawl out without injury.

A sheriff's report stated deputies found two pain pills in his pocket and observed signs of impairment. Woods told a deputy he was looking down at his phone and changing the radio station when the collision happened. His SUV caused $5,000 in damage to the other vehicle.

Woods agreed to a Breathalyzer test, which showed no alcohol. But he refused to take a urine test. Neither he nor the other driver was injured.

How has Vanessa Trump supported Tiger Woods?

Vanessa Trump, the former daughter-in-law of President Donald Trump, has been a consistent presence. She accompanied Woods to the courthouse, wearing sunglasses and a white jacket, and sat behind him during the hearing.

Her support dates back to shortly after the crash. In April, she posted a loving message on social media with a photo of the two embracing on a hammock. The caption simply read, "Love you."

What is the context of Tiger Woods's driving history?

This marks at least the fourth significant crash in Woods's life. His career has been impacted by multiple back and knee surgeries, dependence on pain medication, and these automotive incidents.

He took leaves from professional golf after a 2009 crash and again following this latest one. He has not returned to tournament play since the March rollover.

• Plea Outcome: Tiger Woods pleaded no contest, avoiding a DUI conviction and jail time.
• Driving Ban: His driver's license was suspended for five years by the court.
• Crash Cause: Woods admitted to looking at his phone and changing the radio station when he hit another vehicle.
• Support System: Girlfriend Vanessa Trump attended the court hearing with him.