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Many drivers in California face a license suspension after an arrest for driving under the influence (DUI). Fortunately, you have options to address your limited driving privileges in this situation, including obtaining a hardship license.
A Los Angeles DUI lawyer can help you learn how to get a hardship license by reviewing California’s driver’s hardship license law. You can reach out to us to learn more when you call or fill out our online contact form.
How Do You Get a California Hardship License?
You must complete the application process to get a hardship license. This process involves:
- Completing and submitting a DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) application
- Making a $125 payment toward a reissue fee
- Submitting proof of enrollment in a court-approved DUI school
- Showing proof that you have taken financial responsibility and purchased SR-22 level insurance
Some California courts may also require you to enroll in Alcoholics Anonymous or another substance abuse treatment program to ensure that you work on developing skills that can limit your use of alcohol, thereby decreasing the chances of you driving drunk again.
You may need to show proof of employment when paying your reissue fee. In other circumstances, you may need to provide proof of medical reasons that you require license privileges. You can get legal advice about dealing with the Department of Motor Vehicles today.
What Is SR-22 Insurance?
SR-22 insurance is like any other auto insurance policy, except it comes with a certificate of financial responsibility. Technically, the certificate itself is the SR-22 insurance rather than a policy in and of itself.
Still, to acquire an SR-22 certificate, you must purchase an insurance policy that qualifies as SR-22 coverage. These policies are typically two or three times more expensive than standard insurance policies.
Therefore, driving with a restricted license can affect your insurance.
Can Anyone Apply for a Hardship License?
California only allows first-time DUI offenders to apply. Some other eligibility requirements include:
- Must still have all driving privileges, meaning that the court cannot revoke their license for another illegal act
- Must have submitted to the sobriety test they were asked to complete at the time of their arrest
- Must be age 21 or older
Understanding these requirements can help DUI offenders determine whether or not they qualify for a hardship license. However, there are times when the DMV will deny people who do meet all of these criteria if they apply.
Work with a DUI defense lawyer to complete your application to ensure the highest chance of success.
Can I Get a Hardship License if My DUI Injured Someone?
Acquiring a license will be far more difficult if someone sustained injuries in a DUI accident that you caused. The court system sees people who cause injuries as more likely to engage in reckless driving while drunk in a motor vehicle.
Can a Commercial Driver Apply?
Generally, individuals operating a commercial vehicle at the time of their DUI arrest cannot apply for a restricted license. You cannot use this type of license for commercial driving purposes.
What Is a Hardship License?
A conviction for a DUI in California often results in a license suspension. This suspension limits your ability to travel because it stops you from legally operating a motor vehicle. Due to these restrictions, many lose their ability to travel to and from school and work.
That is why hardship licenses are allowed for some California drivers. These licenses, sometimes called restricted licenses, are granted to select individuals who meet specific criteria.
While holding a restricted license, drivers can legally drive for several purposes. Where they can drive is often limited to essential needs, such as attending a DUI education program, place of employment, or school. Usually, trips to medical facilities are also allowed.
When Should I Start Applying for a Hardship License?
Depending on your specific circumstances, a DUI attorney can provide advice on when best to apply for a hardship license. Generally, you should begin applying:
- After police have confiscated your driver’s license
- After the DMV issues an Order of Suspension
- After you acquire a Temporary License
Following the issuance of the order, you may use a temporary license for thirty days of driving. Once the thirty days have expired, the DMV will suspend your license. Depending on your situation, the suspension may carry on for months or years.
Starting the application can get you back on the road and back to your normal way of life.
Can You Lose Your Hardship License?
Yes. Losing your hardship license creates a domino-like effect, causing difficulties and increased monetary penalties when it is time to retrieve your regular license.
Because this type of license has limitations, you can lose your hardship license if the police catch you driving your motor vehicle to places you are not supposed to. You can also lose it by failing to complete a DUI driving program.
Are There Alternatives to a Hardship License?
California provides an alternative way for you to continue operating your motor vehicle after a DUI conviction. The statewide ignition interlock device (IID) pilot program allows you to operate a motor vehicle with limited restrictions.
You may select this option to drive your vehicle without restrictions. Using an IID, you can drive to places outside of your work, school, and DUI treatment programs. This valid license allows you to operate a motor vehicle as long as you perform a blood alcohol content (BAC) test each time you drive.
You also have the option of using public transportation to get around when dealing with a mandatory suspension of your driving privileges.
What Can a DUI Attorney Do?
If you hire a DUI defense attorney, they can represent you in a DMV hearing or criminal court. They can also help explain what paperwork and fees must be submitted to get a hardship license quickly and with minimal effort.
In many cases, your DUI attorney will also tell you the best time to begin applying for a hardship license, increasing your chances of getting one so you can operate your motor vehicle as a restricted driver.
You should not mess around regarding getting your hardship license following a DUI conviction. Find out how to get proof of employment, proof of enrollment in DUI courses, and the rest of the paperwork required for this application.
Learn How to Get a Hardship License for Your Motor Vehicle
California’s driver’s hardship license law tells you how to get a hardship license. A DUI lawyer can help you determine your eligibility and navigate the process of applying for a restricted license.
You can learn more about your license privileges and next steps by calling or filling out our online contact form.