Qualifying for a Hardship Driver's License

 Posted on June 12, 2024 in License Suspension

Driving is an important part of life In California, and most people need to have a car to get to their job. If you get pulled over for driving under the influence (DUI), you face possible license suspension. When your ability to drive is taken away from you, it can cause a great deal of distress and hardship, especially if you depend on driving for your livelihood. Fortunately, there are ways to legally get back on the road. Speak with an experienced San Fransisco, CA DUI lawyer to understand your options.

What Is a Hardship License?

If your employment depends on your ability to drive, having your license suspended because of a DUI can be debilitating. You might be eligible for something called a hardship license. This restricted license would allow you to drive on specific routes, for example, from your home to your work, school, medical treatments, or DUI education program and back. To apply for a hardship license,  you need to do the following:

• Submit a completed DMV application
• Pay a $125 reissuing fee
• Submit proof that you have an SR-22 insurance policy
• Show proof that you have enrolled in a court-approved DUI education program

Depending on the circumstances of your conviction, the court might also require any of the following:

• Proof of enrollment in an Alcoholics Anonymous program
• Proof of employment
• Medical documentation providing proof of why you need to drive for treatment

Who Is Eligible?

A hardship license is not an option for everyone who has a DUI. In order to be eligible to apply, you need to meet the following conditions:

• This was your first DUI offense
• You are at least 21 years old
• Your license was not revoked by the court for another reason, for example, you were charged with another crime, and your license was revoked as part of your sentence
• You did not refuse to submit to the field sobriety test at the time of arrest

Even if you meet all these criteria, your application for a hardship license might still be denied. For example, if someone was injured as a result of your impaired driving, it would be much harder for you. Additionally, hardship licenses cannot be used for driving in a commercial vehicle.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Richmond, CA DUI Attorney

If your license was suspended when you were arrested for a DUI, speak with a trusted Napa, CA DUI lawyer. Attorney Paul Burglin has extensive experience with California DUI laws, having represented over 5,000 clients facing similar charges. Call Burglin Law Offices, P.C. at 415-729-7300 to schedule a free consultation.