Can You Drive Out of State With a Hardship License?
Did you get pulled over for a DUI in Texas and now have a restricted license? Or do you live in another state, and your license is suspended? If so, you may have already Googled, “Can you drive out of state with a hardship license?”
Just like many other drivers with DUI convictions, you may wonder if it’s legal to drive to work or visit family members on a restricted license. Driving on a hardship license is an alternative that can save you from not driving at all — but it comes at a cost.
What Is a Hardship License?
If your driver’s license has been suspended, then the most appropriate action to take is to apply for a hardship license. Also known as a “restricted license” in some states, you can drive a car with specific limits in place.
Unlike drivers with suspended licenses, a restricted one allows you to drive within specified areas during certain times. Often, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your car as an additional requirement for obtaining a hardship license.
It would help if you offered a genuine reason to get this license. Young adults below 18 years of age can also get them for school, work, or alcohol treatment programs.
What Are the Privileges of a Restricted License?
If you rely on your vehicle to get around most of the time, a license suspension can take a toll on you. You may lose your job or take a break from college. If your kids depend on you to take them to school and after-class activities, such a suspension may inconvenience all of you.
But the good news is that you can apply for a hardship license to help you with daily responsibilities. With a restricted license, you’ll be able to:
● Drive to and from work
● Drive your kids to school or a childcare center
● Attend court proceedings
● Drive to a hospital
Hardship License Restrictions
As stated earlier, a hardship license only allows you to drive under outlined circumstances. If your destination is not your place of employment, school, or the hospital, you may land in trouble with the authorities. Don’t get yourself on the wrong side of the law by driving to places that aren’t specified on your license.
Additionally, restricted licenses are only given to eligible persons. Depending on your state’s laws, you may not be given the license if you:
● Have been convicted of a DUI more than twice
● Lost your commercial driver’s license
● Are convicted of vehicular manslaughter
● Have a severe DUI injury.
Can You Drive Out of State with a Hardship License?
Driving out of state with a hardship license is illegal in many states. Whether you’re driving to another state to pick up a contract or attend a work conference, it’s your responsibility to ensure that you have permission to do so.
So, how can you drive out of state with a hardship license? You can only find the answer to this question by checking the rules and regulations of the state you intend to drive to. In addition, it’s a good idea to speak with your probation officer; you may need to apply for a travel permit if the law requires it. Whatever you do, it’s wise to avoid assuming that you can drive out of state without clarification about your privileges in this area.
Put another way; a restricted license doesn’t afford you the privilege of driving to any destination you choose. Depending on the laws in your state, you may be held to these restrictions:
● Only family members and relatives can be passengers.
● The restricted license is only valid during certain hours of the day.
● A mileage restriction may apply.
● The license may only be good for driving to work, school, healthcare appointments, and rehab program meetings. Other destinations may require permission from the court.
Expedite Your Application for a Hardship License by Installing our Ignition Interlock Device in Your Car
Most states require that you install an ignition interlock device in your car before acquiring a hardship license. Moreover, an ignition interlock promotes credibility if you drive to a destination that recognizes your state’s restricted license.
With our efficient and affordable devices, we can help you overcome your road troubles. Contact us today to schedule your ignition interlock installation with our friendly and professional team!
*Links to any third-party websites herein are provided for your reference and convenience only. RoadGuard Interlock did not create nor develop and does not own any such third-party websites. RoadGuard Interlock does not endorse nor support the content of, nor any opinions stated in any such third-party website links. RoadGuard Interlock is not responsible for the content of any third-party website or its accuracy or reliability. Nothing contained in this article or in any such third-party website shall be considered legal advice or be deemed to constitute legal advice. For any legal advice concerning a DUI arrest, charge, conviction, or consequences thereof, you should contact an attorney of your choice. *
