After certain types of DUI convictions, you may be eligible for what’s known as a limited license here in Minnesota. A limited license, also sometimes referred to as a work permit, allows an individual who has been convicted of a DUI to continue driving under strict limitations instead of having their driver’s license completely revoked. Below, we take a closer look at who qualifies for a limited license in Minnesota and where you are legally allowed to drive while on a limited license after a DUI.
Getting A Limited License After A DUI
Not every person who is convicted of drunk driving in Minnesota will be eligible for a limited driver’s license. Currently, limited licenses are only available to DUI defendants with no prior DUIs, and:
- A BAC under 0.16, or
- They refused to submit to chemical testing
If the individual does not met the above qualifications, they instead must enroll in the state’s ignition interlock program if they want to continue driving.
However, those are just a few of the parameters that must be met in order for an individual to be granted a limited license. To qualify for the program, an individual must prove that:
- Their livelihood or their attendance at a chemical dependency program or similar counseling program depends on their ability to drive on a limited license; or
- Their ability to attend postsecondary education as an enrolled student depends on their ability to drive on a limited license; or
- Their ability to provide as a homemaker is necessary to prevent substantial disruption of the medical or nutritional needs of the family.
In proving any of the above, you will need to make a strong case as to why ridesharing or public transportation would not be a viable alternative.
Where Can I Drive On A Limited License?
Based on the above, you can probably venture a pretty good guess as to where you are allowed to drive on a limited license. You are allowed to drive to and from:
- A chemical dependency evaluation or substance abuse class
- Your place of employment
- School
Your specific limited license may also allow you to drive to and from medical appointments or to the grocery store if you are the primary homemaker, but you can’t use these errands as an excuse to drive to other places on a limited license. If you are caught in violation of your limited license constraints, your limited license can be revoked and you may remain ineligible to drive until your revocation period has expired.
Other points to note about a limited license:
- You cannot drive more than 60 hours a week, but your individual limited license will say how many hours you’re allowed to drive each week.
- You must pick one day a week where no driving of any kind is allowed.
- You cannot apply for a limited license until 15 days after the 7-day temporary license expires.
For more information about obtaining a limited license, or for assistance fighting a DUI charge so that you can retain your original license, reach out to the team at Appelman Law Firm today at (952) 224-2277.
