A DUI will prevent you from driving, and that restrictive period could last months or years, depending on your circumstances. The outcome may require you to find alternative transportation for the foreseeable future.
Sometimes you might have extenuating circumstances that make it impossible for you to meet obligations without a driver’s license. Depending on the situation, you might be eligible to apply for a restricted license.
Apply for a restricted DL
Following your DUI, the DMV may summon you for a hearing. A discussion of the details of your case could touch on the status of your license. However, you cannot request a restricted DL during this time. You will need to follow the instructions to apply for an Ignition Interlock Device or IID, which is something you will do online. Following the prompts, you will provide the requested information and receive instructions for the next steps.
Approval for a restricted DL
Not just anyone receives approval for a restricted DL. In fact, according to the State of California Department of Motor Vehicles, situations where officials grant permission for a restricted DL are “very limited.” Prior to approval, you will need to provide evidence that you have a critical need to be able to operate a vehicle.
If officials do approve your request, you will have strict instructions to follow. Violating the terms of your agreement or tampering with the technology used to monitor your compliance could result in the immediate revocation of your driving privileges for an undisclosed time.
If you meet all the requirements and you comply with instructions, you may have the opportunity to benefit from a restricted DL until you regain your full driving privileges.