Home❱Applying for a Hardship/Cinderella Driver’s License

Applying for a Hardship/Cinderella Driver’s License

Steven Topazio wrote this August 23, 2023 at 3:11 pm

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The process and requirements for obtaining a Cinderella driver’s license (also known as a hardship or restricted license) after a drunk driving arrest and license suspension can vary by state and jurisdiction. In Massachusetts, hardship licenses are only granted to Massachusetts driver’s license holders. If you are approved, the RMV may only grant an identical 12-hour, 7 day license.

Hardship License Application Process: The application process for a hardship license can involve several steps, including submitting an application, attending a hearing, and providing documentation to prove your eligibility and the necessity for the restricted license.

1) Don’t drive: If you are caught driving a motor vehicle since the effective date of suspension/revocation of either the OUI (24D), the Admin Per Se (Breath test failure), or the Chemical Test Refusal (CTR) suspensions, you will not be approved.

2) You qualify for an OUI (24D) disposition. If you qualify for an alcohol education program, such as the 24D program, which is a 16-week education program aimed at preventing future drunk driving incidents, you can apply for a hardship license. To qualify for the hardship license, you will need to enroll in the alcohol education program prior to applying for the hardship license. If this is your second offense, a hardship license is also available for “2nd chance” 24D assignments, providing the prior OUI finding (or conviction) is over 10 years from the most recent incident date.

3) Serve Suspension Time: You may need to serve any other mandatory suspension period, during which you are not allowed to drive at all, excluding a Chemical Test Refusal, prior to being granted a hardship license.

4) Document your Hardship: To qualify, you must document a legitimate hardship by providing a letter from your employer, on letterhead, which cannot be more than 30 days old. The letter must state your need for a hardship license and the work hours.

5) Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device: In some cases, Massachusetts may require the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle. This device measures your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on your breath.

6) Fulfill Court Requirements: It’s important to fulfill any court-ordered requirements and follow the instructions provided by the court during the entire process.

Keep in mind that the specific requirements and procedures can change, and it’s crucial to consult with an attorney or a legal expert who specializes in Massachusetts and Boston DUI laws to get accurate and up-to-date information based on your individual situation.

Driving under the influence is a serious offense with potentially severe consequences, including legal penalties, fines, and potential harm to yourself and others. If you are facing legal issues related to drunk driving, seeking the guidance of a legal professional is highly recommended. Contact Attorney Steven Topazio to learn more.

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