Frisco Occupational Driver's License DWI Defense Attorney

Collin County DWI Attorney For Occupational Driver's License Suspension

Have you lost your Texas driver's license due to a driving while intoxicated (DWI) conviction? Or, maybe your license was suspended because you failed or refused breath or blood tests but your DWI case is still pending. Whatever the reason may be, it can be extremely inconvenient to manage your life without your driver's license—especially in a commuter area like North Texas, where public transportation is available but, to be honest, nowhere near as convenient as having your own vehicle.

Driving with a suspended license is against the law, and if you get caught, you could face serious criminal and administrative consequences. Fortunately, there is another option that could allow you to get to work or school and to take care of your family without breaking the law: an occupational driver's license. Also called an "essential needs license," an occupational driver's license gives you the ability to drive legally while your license is suspended, but you will not qualify for one automatically. There is a complex process that you must go through to secure this type of license, and an experienced attorney from the Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C. can help you.

What Is an Occupational Driver's License?

Under Texas law, driving is a privilege, not a guaranteed right. When a person abuses the privilege of driving by operating a vehicle while intoxicated, there are going to be consequences. However, the state of Texas recognizes that many citizens rely on their personal vehicles to get to work every day and provide for their families. An occupation driver's license provides an avenue for balancing administrative penalties and the needs of those who depend on the person with a suspended license.

With an occupational driver's license, a person whose license was suspended can be permitted to drive for up 12 hours per day for purposes related to work, school, or household obligations. Each case is unique and is, therefore, handled on an individual basis by the courts.

How Do I Get an Occupational Driver's License?

Each county and district court may have slightly different processes and requirements for obtaining an occupational license. In Texas you may apply for an occupational drivers license in either the county in which you were arrested, or the county in which you live. At the Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., we are familiar with the requirements of courts throughout the region. We will select the county in which we have the best chance to get the most driving time for you and we can help you prepare your occupational driver's license petition. In addition to the petition itself, you will also need a Financial Responsibility Insurance Certificate, or SR-22, to show that you have auto insurance that meets or exceeds the standards set by the state. Some jurisdictions will also require a copy of your driving record, as well. Finally, you might need to appear in person for a hearing in front of a judge. Our team will assist you in building a case that demonstrates your need for an occupational driver's license and advocate on your behalf at your hearing.

If the court approves your petition, a court order will be issued granting your request for an occupational license and setting its terms. From there, you will need to submit the court order and all other required items to the Texas Department of Public Safety so that your request can be processed and your license issued. In the meantime, your court order will serve as a temporary occupational license for up to 30 days.

It is important to understand that an occupational driver's license is only valid for operating a private motor vehicle. There is no form of occupational license available that would allow you to operate a commercial vehicle during your suspension.

Protect Your Driving Privileges. Call Us Today

If you or a loved if facing charges related to DWI or is dealing with an impending license suspension, contact our office. Call 469-333-3333 to schedule a free consultation at the Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C. today. Our firm serves clients Frisco, McKinney, Plano, Fairview, Prosper, Allen, Little Elm, The Colony, Lewisville, Denton, Dallas County, Denton County, Collin County, and surrounding areas.