Hardship License Attorney Fort Wayne

Have you gotten your license suspended? It happens. In Indiana, it can happen for any of several reasons. You may have refused to take a breathalyzer test, been convicted of DUI, been deemed a habitual traffic offender, or even neglected to pay your child support or alimony. Have you let your insurance lapse? Then your license is probably suspended. Depending on the situation surrounding your suspension, you may be able to appeal to the court for a hardship license. A Fort Wayne hardship license attorney can help you do just that.

What is a Hardship License?

Indiana drivers who have had their license suspended can apply for a specialized driver’s license. While this driver’s license does not give you the full freedom of a standard driver’s license, you will be allowed to drive to and from work and run other necessary errands. In most other states, the application process goes through the department of motor vehicles. In Indiana, however, the petition is processed by the court. 

Eligibility for Hardship Licenses in Indiana

The law does not state specifically who is eligible to receive a hardship license. On the other hand, it does specify who is not. Those who have never held a license in the State of Indiana are not eligible for a hardship license. Those who refused to submit to a chemical test also may not be eligible for a hardship license. Lastly, those who were convicted of causing a death while driving are also excluded from receiving a hardship license. 

Petitioning the Court for a Hardship License

If your license was suspended by a specific court, you would need to file the petition with that court. If, on the other hand, your suspension was ordered by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), you can file the petition at any court in your county.

Additional Requirements for a Hardship License

If you are granted a hardship license, you will need to reinstate and maintain your insurance once your hardship license has been granted. You will want to keep proof of insurance with you at all times. Law enforcement will request it. 

Depending on the type of offense that caused your license to become suspended, you will be restricted from driving on certain days or to certain places. If your license has been suspended for a DUI, you will need to install an ignition interlock device (at your own expense). The IID will not allow your car to start if you fail a breath test. An IID essentially requires that you blow into the device each time you want to start your car. If it detects any alcohol on your breath at all, your car will not start.

Talk to a Fort Wayne Hardship License Attorney

If you have had your license suspended, The Bellinger Law Firm can help you get it back. If that’s not in the cards, you can still apply for a special hardship license. Call our firm today and talk to a Fort Wayne hardship license attorney.