Getting an Occupational License after a DUI

If your license has been suspended or revoked as a result of a DUI, it can make your life very challenging. You need to get to work, perhaps attend school, take care of your children and your home, and even attend religious services, and public transportation can turn an easy drive into a complicated and time-consuming commute. Fortunately, in some cases, you may be eligible for an occupational license that allows you to drive for specific reasons. To find out whether you are eligible for an occupational license, contact the Cohen Law Offices today to discuss your case with a lawyer.

The Occupational License Process

Depending on the reasons your license was suspended or revoked, you might have to wait to get an occupational license. However, if it was suspended due to a first-time DUI conviction or as a part of an administrative suspension, you are usually eligible right away. If your license was revoked because of a second, third, or more DUI conviction, you are not eligible to apply for an occupation license for 45 days. If you refused a chemical test or injured or killed someone as a part of your DUI charges, the waiting period can be even longer. 

To get your occupation license, you will need to:

• Fill out the application
• Pay a $50 fee 
• Submit to any required tests
• Provide proof of SR-22 insurance coverage

Retaining an experienced DUI defense attorney to help you obtain an occupational license can make the process significantly easier and ensure that you are maximizing the chances that you will be able to drive as soon as possible.

The Restrictions of an Occupational License

An occupational license is not a regular license to drive. This type of license has particular restrictions attached to it that you must abide by. You may not drive more than 12 hours per day or 60 hours per week. When getting this license, you will need to list all of the counties that you need to drive in over the next six months. Failing to stay within those counties or otherwise doing something outside the parameters of this license can cause you to be charged with operating while suspended or operating while revoked, both of which can have serious consequences. You can only drive for these reasons:

• Employment
• School
• Homemaking
• Church
• Providing emergency services

If your reason for driving is a job, you must indicate your employer. Similarly, if it is for school, you must list the school you attend. There will be specific hours you can drive for school and work as well as for homemaking and religious reasons. If you need to run errands such as going grocery shopping, those tasks must also be done within the set timeframe.

Charged with an DUI? Contact the Cohen Law Offices Today

The experienced attorneys at Cohen Law Offices are available to help you with all aspects of your DUI charges, including obtaining an occupational license. Our experienced legal team has the knowledge and experience to navigate your case successfully. Schedule a consultation with a skilled Eau Claire DUI defense attorney at the Cohen Law Offices today by calling (715) 514-5051 confidential online contact form.