Criminal Defense

The Consequences of a DUI with an Occupational Driver’s License

March 06, 2025 by Yuliya Kelmansky in Criminal Defense  DUI  
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What is an Occupational Driver’s License?

An occupational driver’s license is a special type of restricted license that allows you to drive to and from certain necessary locations, such as work, school, or medical appointments. In certain states, an occupational driver’s license may also be known as a restricted, conditional, or probationary license.

In California, it is often seen at car dealerships and used by the staff. It looks like this:

Occupational Driver's License Photo

To obtain an occupational driver’s license from the DMV, you must prove that you have a valid reason for needing to drive and that you’ll be able to do so safely. Applying for an occupational driver’s license is a multi-step process that must be completed in the state in which you are applying for the license. The first step is to contact your state’s motor vehicle department and request an application for an occupational driver’s license.

Requirements and Cost of an Occupational Driver’s License

In order to obtain an occupational driver’s license, you must meet the following requirements:

  • You must be a resident of the state in which you are applying for the license.
  • You must have a valid driver’s license that has not been suspended or revoked for any reason, including a DUI.
  • You must provide proof of financial responsibility, such as proof of car insurance.
  • You must demonstrate that you have a valid and necessary reason for needing to drive, such as work or school.
  • You must have paid any outstanding fines or completed any necessary alcohol or drug education programs.
  • The cost of obtaining an occupational driver’s license varies from state to state. Generally, you’ll need to pay a fee to the court as well as any fines or fees associated with the offense that caused you to lose your license. You may also need to pay an additional fee to the state or county in which you are applying for the license.

Consequences of a DUI with an Occupational License

It is important to understand that having an occupational driver’s license does not exempt you from the consequences of a DUI. Depending on the state, you may still be subject to fines, jail time, license suspension, and other penalties. Additionally, if you are caught driving outside of the scope of your occupational driver’s license, you may face additional penalties.

If you are pulled over for a DUI with an occupational driver’s license, you may face more serious consequences than if you had a valid driver’s license. This is because having an occupational driver’s license is an indication that you are willing to break the law and that you have already been convicted of a DUI. As a result, you may be subject to harsher penalties, such as longer license suspensions or jail time.

Hiring a Lawyer for a DUI

If you have been arrested for a DUI, it is important to consider hiring a lawyer. A lawyer can help you understand the laws of your state, build a defense, and negotiate with the court on your behalf. They can also help you understand the potential consequences of a DUI, including the consequences of having an occupational driver’s license.

When selecting a lawyer, it is important to do your research. You should make sure that the lawyer you choose is experienced in DUI cases and that they have a good track record of success. Additionally, you should make sure that the lawyer you choose is familiar with the laws of your state and that they are willing to work with you to develop a strong defense.

Resources for Obtaining an Occupational Driver’s License

There are several resources available to help you obtain an occupational driver’s license. The first is your state’s motor vehicle department, which can provide you with an application and instructions on how to apply. Additionally, you can contact a lawyer or legal aid organization to discuss the process and to ensure that you have the best chance of obtaining an occupational driver’s license.

You can also find helpful information online, including state-specific guides to obtaining an occupational driver’s license. These guides can provide you with information on the process, the requirements, the costs, and the potential consequences of having a DUI with an occupational driver’s license.

An occupational driver’s license can be a useful tool for individuals who have had their license suspended due to a DUI. It allows them to drive to and from certain necessary locations, such as work, school, or medical appointments. However, it is important to understand the requirements and costs of obtaining an occupational driver’s license as well as the potential consequences of having a DUI with an occupational driver’s license.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bj5KfG_7zBM&ab_channel=KelmanskyLawGroup

Do You Need a Lawyer?

If you have been arrested for a DUI, it is important to consider hiring a lawyer to help you understand the laws of your state and to build a defense. Additionally, there are several resources available to help you understand the process and the requirements of obtaining an occupational driver’s license.

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Yuliya Kelmansky is an Expert Attorney who has over 15 years of practice defending a variety of cases.

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