If you have had your license suspended and are struggling to carry out essential activities, you may be able to apply for a hardship license in Indiana. If you are eligible and successfully complete all the required application steps, a hardship license can ease the strain on your life. A Northwest Indiana OWI/DUI lawyer from The Law Office of Joseph M. Roberts LLC can help you through the process.
Understanding Indiana’s Hardship Licenses
Indiana provides individuals with special driving privileges when a suspended license causes undue strain on their ability to earn an income and support a family. A hardship license, otherwise known as specialized driving privileges (SDP), allows you to drive under restricted conditions. A court must issue these licenses and will outline the conditions that apply. The terms of your hardship license are influenced by a variety of factors, including the reason for your suspended license.
Eligibility Requirements for a Hardship License in Indiana
To receive a hardship license, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. First, your license must have been suspended due to a DUI, repeat traffic violations, a court order, or other applicable reason. You must also not fall into any one of the hardship license exceptions outlined in Indiana Code § 9-30-16-1(a).
Additionally, you must also be able to demonstrate a valid reason and explain why a suspended license causes you hardship. For example, if you have a job, medical condition, or family obligations that are significantly and negatively impacted by not having a vehicle or access to alternative transportation, then you may qualify for a hardship license.
Steps to Take to Apply for a Hardship License
Once you have determined you are eligible for a hardship license, you must follow the required steps to submit a petition for specialized driving privileges (Indiana Code 9-30-16-4). Your petition must include your verification, age, date of birth, address, and reason for your request. The petition must be filed within the correct court of the county that suspended your license. You must also serve your petition to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) and the prosecuting attorney, who can respond to your petition.
Depending on the cause of your suspension, you may also be required to take additional steps during the application process. If your license was suspended due to alcohol impairment, you may also be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle as part of your special driving privilege conditions. Be sure to carefully review and understand all petition requirements for your particular circumstances to increase the chance of a favorable outcome.
Hiring a Lawyer Can Help Streamline the Application Process
To ensure that you can successfully meet the requirements and complete the application process for a hardship license, it can be highly beneficial to work with an experienced lawyer. They can streamline the process by counseling you on what steps to take, making sure your application is filled out correctly, and negotiating on your behalf if issues arise. The Law Office of Joseph M. Roberts LLC is ready to help you when you contact our firm.