I was convicted of a DUI. How can I apply a hardship license?

If you have been arrested for a DUI, you may wonder about Massachusetts and its various drunk driving laws. If you are a first time DUI offender, under the laws of Massachusetts, you may be eligible for a hardship license following your initial court appearance. As a second time Massachusetts DUI offender you may also be eligible for a hardship license, however the requirements set out by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles can make it next to impossible to comply with the complicated requirements.

First Offender

If you refused the preliminary breathalyzer test, you will not be eligible for a hardship license. You can appeal your license suspension, but it is doubtful you will win. You must prove to the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles that you have a need to drive, such as going to work. If granted the hardship license, you will be allowed to drive for a twelve hour period during the day, such as 8 am to 8 pm, or 9 am to 9 pm, etc. You will be allowed to drive seven days per week, and must provide the RMV with proof that you have entered a state approved alcohol education program as well as proof of your employment in the form of a letter from your employer. If you are self-employed you must show documentation of your business registration or Articles of Incorporation.

Second Offender--Get Legal Help

As a second-time DUI offender, you will need to install an ignition interlock device on any vehicle they own and operate, and this device must be installed by an approved vendor prior to the issuance of the hardship license. As a second-time offender, acquiring a hardship license is much more difficult and you probably will not be granted the hardship license unless you speak to a Massachusetts DUI attorney who has extensive experience with the hardship license process when it comes to second time offenders.