Restricted Driver’s License: What You Need to Know About Restricted License
A DUI offense in most states means license suspension for a period that is dependent on many factors, like your driving history. For many drivers, especially those who live in areas with little or no public transportation, losing your license can cause substantial hardship. If you are wondering, “My license is suspended, how can I get my license back?” RoadGuard Interlock can help. A restricted ignition interlock license will allow you to continue to drive, as long as your vehicle is equipped with an ignition interlock device.
What is a Restricted License?
A restricted license is intended to allow drivers who would otherwise have had their licenses suspended completely to continue to operate motor vehicles under specific circumstances, where certain conditions are met.
What Does a Restricted Drivers License Look Like?
Each restricted license has different terms based on the judge who issued the sentence, conducted the driver’s license hearing, the severity of the offender’s actions when convicted of a DUI, and other unique situations. For example, a parent with children who need to be transported to school may need more freedom to drive than a single individual with no children. Typically, restrictions include:
Where you can drive
For example, you may be able to drive only specific routes with your restricted license. The court may restrict your ability to drive through high-traffic areas or other areas that are known to be more dangerous than others.
When you can drive
In some cases, your license may restrict the hours you are allowed to be on the road. You might be restricted to driving during work hours, or you might not be able to drive after 10:00 pm. Typically, time restrictions are based on the hours when you are most likely to drink which helps to keep you off the road under those circumstances.
Under what circumstances you can drive
Typically, with a restricted license, you can drive:
- If you are dropping your children off at school or picking them up
- To obtain medical care for yourself or another individual
- To obtain needed medication for yourself or another individual
- To get to and from work or complete regular duties associated with your job
- To attend classes yourself, especially if you were enrolled in those classes before your DUI conviction
- To attend any court-mandated activities such as making it to your court date, meeting with a probation officer, or completing community service.
What qualifications must be met to drive
Often, if you need a restricted license, the court will require an ignition interlock device installed in any car you might be driving. An interlock device will measure the amount of alcohol in your system through a simple breath test, much like a breathalyzer. If your breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) is over the legal limit, the car will not start. This simple measure helps protect you and others on the road.
Restricted ignition interlock licenses are not available in all states or all circumstances. If you have multiple DUI convictions, for example, you may be ineligible for a restricted license. If you do need a restricted license and it is available in your state, you may want to consider how an ignition interlock device will help build the state’s confidence in your ability to drive.
When you are convicted of a DUI, an ignition interlock device can help you retain your license and your driving privileges in spite of restrictions on your driver’s license. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help get you back on the road again or to get a quote for the cost of an ignition interlock device for your vehicle.
*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.