What defines vehicle theft?

The definition of vehicle theft is accurately characterized by the action of driving or taking a vehicle of another person without their consent. This definition encompasses the unlawful act of appropriating someone else's property, which is a central element of theft in general. The absence of the owner's permission is key to distinguishing this crime from other actions that may involve vehicles.

Taking a vehicle without consent is crucial because it demonstrates the violation of property rights, one of the core principles underlying theft laws. This action can include physically stealing a vehicle or temporarily taking it without permission, which is still illegal regardless of whether the vehicle is permanently retained or not.

The other options do not constitute vehicle theft; consent from the owner is a critical element in differentiating lawful actions from criminal behavior in these scenarios. For instance, taking a vehicle with the owner's consent may involve rental agreements or borrowing, which are lawful. Driving without a driver's license may entail legal consequences but does not involve the unauthorized taking of someone else's property, and illegal parking does not imply theft, as it pertains instead to traffic or regulatory violations.