(a) It shall be unlawful for any person:

(1) To operate a motor truck subject to this article upon any public highway in this state without first obtaining the permit required under Code Section 40-2-111;

(2) To violate any regulation issued by the commissioner pursuant to the authority granted under this article;

(3) To fail to file any return or report required by the commissioner;

(4) To make a false return or fail to keep records of operations as may be required by the commissioner; or

(5) To make knowingly any false statement in any application for registration.

(b) Any person who violates any provision of this Code section, upon first conviction, shall be punished by a fine of not less than $100.00 nor more than $250.00; and upon a second or subsequent conviction, by a fine of not less than $250.00 nor more than $500.00, or by imprisonment for not more than 30 days, or both.