DUI/DWI Hardship Licenses in Georgia

What is a DUI/DWI hardship license, and who is eligible to apply for one in Georgia?

A DUI/DWI hardship license is a restricted license that allows individuals convicted of drunk driving to drive under certain circumstances for limited purposes. In Georgia, individuals who have been convicted of DUI and have had their license suspended or revoked are eligible to apply for a hardship license. This type of license allows them to drive under certain restrictions, such as only to and from work, to and from medical appointments, or for specific other purposes that are agreed upon by the individual and the Department of Driver Services.

What are the specific conditions or circumstances that may lead to a hardship license in Georgia?

The specific conditions or circumstances that may lead to a hardship license in Georgia are:

1. An individual who has been convicted of DUI and has had their license suspended or revoked.

2. An individual who is a minor and/or still in high school and needs to travel to and from school or school activities.

3. An individual who is a single parent and needs to drive to work, daycare, and/or necessary errands.

4. An individual who is employed or enrolled in a job training program and needs to drive to work or class.

5. An individual who is enrolled in a treatment program for chemical dependency and needs to drive to meetings and/or treatment sessions.

6. An individual who is a medical patient and needs to travel to medical appointments, treatments, or hospitalizations.

Are there different requirements for first-time offenders compared to repeat offenders in Georgia?

Yes. For first-time offenders, punishments are often more lenient than those for repeat offenders. These may include probation, fines, community service, and other alternatives to jail time. Meanwhile, Georgia law imposes harsher penalties on repeat offenders, such as increased fines and longer jail sentences.

How long is a driver’s license typically suspended before applying for a hardship license in Georgia?

In Georgia, the length of time a driver’s license is typically suspended before applying for a hardship license depends on the offense. Generally, the suspension period is between six months and three years.

What are the restrictions and limitations of a hardship license in Georgia?

The restrictions and limitations of a hardship license in Georgia vary depending on the individual’s circumstances. Generally, a hardship license only allows for limited driving privileges, usually for work, school, or medical appointments. The license holder is not allowed to drive between midnight and 6 AM, and may be subject to additional restrictions such as curfews or limits on the number of passengers. Additionally, the license holder must have proof of insurance and is subject to a fee for the license.

Can individuals with a hardship license drive at any time of day or night in Georgia?

No, individuals with a hardship license in Georgia are restricted to driving only between 6am and 10pm.

Is there a mandatory waiting period before applying for a hardship license in Georgia?

Yes, there is a mandatory waiting period of 30 days before applying for a hardship license in Georgia.

Do individuals need to complete any rehabilitation or treatment programs to qualify for a hardship license in Georgia?

Yes, individuals may need to complete a rehabilitation or treatment program in order to qualify for a hardship license in Georgia, depending on the individual’s driving record and the reason for their license suspension or revocation. The Georgia Department of Driver Services will review each individual’s case and determine if any rehabilitation or treatment programs need to be completed prior to granting a hardship license.

Are there additional fees or costs associated with obtaining a hardship license in Georgia?

Yes. In addition to the standard license fees, you may also be required to pay a Hardship License fee of $25.00. Before applying for a Hardship License, you may also be required to have a driver’s education course, complete a defensive driving course, and/or pay an additional fee for reinstatement of your license if it has been suspended or revoked for other reasons. Additionally, the court may require criminal background checks or other fees at their discretion.

Can commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders obtain hardship licenses in Georgia?

No, CDL holders are not eligible for a hardship license in Georgia.

What documentation and evidence are required when applying for a hardship license in Georgia?

In order to apply for a hardship license in Georgia, applicants must provide documentation from a medical or other professional verifying that the applicant needs a license for a necessary purpose. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of identity, age, and residency in the form of a driver’s license or state-issued ID card, a Social Security card, and proof of residence (such as a utility bill). Applicants may also need to provide documents related to their driving record, such as a copy of their driving history, their most recent ticket or suspension, or other documents indicating their driving history.

Are hardship licenses subject to ignition interlock device (IID) requirements in Georgia?

Yes. In Georgia, all hardship licenses are subject to an ignition interlock device requirement. The IID must be installed in the vehicle of the person who has been granted a hardship license or limited driving permit.

Can individuals with a hardship license drive out of state in Georgia?

No, individuals with a hardship license in Georgia are limited to driving within the state.

What happens if a driver violates the terms and conditions of their hardship license in Georgia?

If a driver violates the terms and conditions of their hardship license in Georgia, they could have their license revoked or suspended, face fines and court costs, or face jail time. Depending on the severity of the violation, the penalties could be more severe. Additionally, the driver could be required to take additional driving courses in order to have their license reinstated.

Is there a difference in hardship license eligibility for underage drivers in Georgia?

Yes, there is a difference in hardship license eligibility for underage drivers in Georgia. Under Georgia law, minors who are 14 or 15 years old can obtain a hardship license under certain circumstances, such as medical necessity or to travel to and from school or work. Minors who are 16 and 17 years old, however, can obtain a hardship license only if they are free from any alcohol law violations, in accordance with Georgia law.

How does a hardship license affect insurance rates in Georgia?

Hardship licenses in Georgia are limited and designed to allow individuals who have had their license suspended for certain offenses, such as a DUI, to be able to drive to and from places like work or school. The effect on insurance rates in Georgia due to a hardship license depends on the insurance company. Generally, insurance companies view a hardship license as a sign of riskier driving and may increase rates accordingly. It is important to check with your insurer to determine how a hardship license may affect your rates.

Are there specific procedures for appealing a hardship license denial in Georgia?

Yes, the Georgia Department of Driver Services has a specified process for appealing a hardship license denial. First, a request for reconsideration must be submitted to the Driver Control Hearings Section. The request must include the specific reasons for the appeal and any relevant evidence to support the claim. If the request is denied, the applicant can then appeal to the Georgia Department of Driver Services Board of Appeals. The applicant must submit a written request that includes the specific issue in dispute and any evidence supporting their claim. If the appeal is denied by the Board of Appeals, the applicant can then file an appeal in the Superior Court of the county where their license was originally denied.

Do hardship licenses have any impact on future DUI/DWI charges or penalties in Georgia?

No, hardship licenses do not have any impact on future DUI/DWI charges or penalties in Georgia. According to the Georgia Department of Driver Services, a hardship license only allows a driver to legally drive to and from certain places at certain times, like work or school. It does not reduce any DUI/DWI penalties or charges that a person may face in the future.

Are there resources or organizations that provide guidance on obtaining a hardship license in Georgia?

Yes, there are many resources and organizations that provide guidance on obtaining a hardship license in Georgia. The Georgia Department of Driver Services is a great place to start. They offer information about the process, qualifications, and requirements for getting a hardship license in the state. Additionally, many legal aid organizations and non-profits in Georgia offer additional assistance and guidance on the process, as well as provide information about any exemptions or special considerations that may apply.

What steps are required to transition from a hardship license back to a full, unrestricted license in Georgia?

1. Complete the required amount of time on the hardship license. Depending on the circumstances, this could be from 2 months to a year.

2. Pass the driving exam.

3. Have your license reinstated by the Department of Driver Services (DDS).

4. Pay the required fees for reinstatement.

5. Submit proof of insurance to the DDS.

6. Receive your new full, unrestricted license from the DDS.