Have A Question? Search This Site:
A DUI charge in Maryland often results in a license suspension, which can severely disrupt day-to-day life. Many people in this situation wonder whether it’s possible to regain limited driving privileges for essential tasks like commuting to work, attending medical appointments, or taking care of family responsibilities. This leads to a common question: Can you get a restricted or hardship license after a DUI in Maryland?
In Maryland, there is no license officially called a “hardship license,” but the state does offer a process that functions similarly through the Ignition Interlock Program. This allows some individuals facing DUI-related suspensions to continue driving with restrictions. These restricted privileges come with specific conditions and are typically only available to those who meet certain eligibility criteria.
This article explains the process and requirements for obtaining limited driving privileges after a DUI in Maryland. We’ll cover how the system works, who qualifies, and what steps are involved. The goal is to provide a clear, informative overview of the options available to Maryland drivers—not to offer legal advice or representation.
If you’ve had your license suspended after a DUI, knowing how to navigate this system is key to reducing disruption to your daily life. Maryland’s approach emphasizes public safety but also recognizes that some individuals may need a way to maintain essential responsibilities while serving their penalties.
Let’s begin by outlining how Maryland handles restricted driving privileges through the ignition interlock system.
Maryland’s Approach to Restricted Driving Privileges
Maryland does not issue a traditional “hardship license” like some other states. Instead, the state provides limited driving privileges through enrollment in the Ignition Interlock Program. This program allows eligible drivers to operate a vehicle during a suspension period, but only under strict conditions.
The ignition interlock system requires the driver to install a breath-testing device in their vehicle. The device prevents the car from starting unless the driver provides an alcohol-free breath sample. This restriction is designed to balance safety concerns with the practical need for mobility.
Enrollment in the program is voluntary in some cases and mandatory in others, depending on the nature of the DUI offense. When granted, participation in the Ignition Interlock Program serves as a substitute for full license suspension and enables drivers to legally travel to work, school, medical appointments, or other essential destinations.
Unlike a hardship license in other states, Maryland’s program is tied directly to compliance with monitoring technology. It is a conditional way to keep driving, not a standalone restricted license.
Eligibility for a Restricted License Through Ignition Interlock
Eligibility for Maryland’s restricted driving privileges depends on several factors, including BAC level, refusal to test, prior offenses, and timing of the request. Here are the general rules for who may qualify:
- First-Time DUI Offenders: Individuals with a BAC of 0.08% to 0.14% may be eligible for a restricted license through interlock if they request it within the appropriate window.
- High BAC (0.15% or higher): May still qualify, but participation is often mandatory rather than optional.
- Test Refusals: Drivers who refused BAC testing may participate in the program in lieu of a longer suspension.
- Repeat Offenders: May be required to use ignition interlock as part of a reinstatement or probation program.
To qualify, the driver must request participation through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) shortly after the DUI arrest—typically within 30 days of receiving the Order of Suspension. Timely action is critical, as missing this window can eliminate eligibility.
Participants must also agree to install the ignition interlock device at their own expense, comply with all usage guidelines, and remain in good standing throughout the assigned term.
How to Apply for Restricted Driving Privileges in Maryland
The process of gaining restricted driving privileges through the Ignition Interlock Program involves several specific steps. Here’s how it typically works:
- Receive Order of Suspension: After a DUI arrest, the officer issues an Order of Suspension and a temporary license valid for 45 days.
- Decide Within 30 Days: You must choose whether to request an administrative hearing or apply for the Ignition Interlock Program.
- Submit Interlock Election Form: If you opt into the program, you must fill out and submit the election form to the MVA before the deadline.
- Install the Ignition Interlock Device: Once approved, you have to install the device in a vehicle you will use for driving.
- Comply With Monitoring Requirements: The device records data and must be serviced monthly. Violations can lead to removal from the program and full suspension reinstatement.
Upon successful enrollment, you’ll be issued a restricted license that allows you to drive vehicles equipped with ignition interlock only. Any violation of program rules can result in serious consequences, including extended suspension time.
This process enables the state to maintain oversight while allowing certain individuals to fulfill work or family obligations during their penalty period.
Duration of Restricted Driving Privileges
The amount of time you are required to participate in the Ignition Interlock Program—and thereby hold a restricted license—varies depending on the offense details. Here’s a general breakdown:
- First DUI Offense (BAC below 0.15%): Typically 180 days of interlock participation
- BAC of 0.15% or higher: Often 1 year
- Test Refusal (First Offense): 1 year participation if opting into interlock
- Second DUI Offense: Up to 1 year or longer
- Third or More Offenses: May require interlock for 18 months or longer
These durations are assigned by the MVA based on the arrest and test information. Courts may also impose additional interlock requirements as part of sentencing if a conviction occurs.
It’s important to remain compliant during the entire assigned period. Any failure—such as a missed service appointment or tampering with the device—can restart the timeline or result in removal from the program.
What You Can and Can’t Do With a Restricted License
A restricted license issued under Maryland’s Ignition Interlock Program comes with clear conditions. Understanding what you can and can’t do while enrolled helps avoid unintentional violations.
What You Can Do:
- Drive any vehicle equipped with a properly installed, active ignition interlock device
- Travel for work, school, court-ordered appointments, and family responsibilities
- Maintain a legal driving status during your suspension period
What You Can’t Do:
- Drive any vehicle that is not equipped with the interlock device
- Drive out of compliance with the device (e.g., failing tests, skipping maintenance)
- Avoid the monitoring requirements of the program
You must ensure that any vehicle you drive has the device installed and that all data is submitted according to schedule. If you need to drive more than one vehicle, each must have its own device.
The restricted license is not an open-ended permission to drive—it’s a conditional allowance based on full compliance with state rules.
Cost and Compliance Responsibilities
Enrolling in the Ignition Interlock Program involves costs and ongoing responsibilities. These include:
- Installation Fee: Usually around $150–$200
- Monthly Monitoring Fee: Approximately $70–$100 per month
- Device Calibration and Maintenance: Regular check-ins are required (typically every 30 days)
Participants must also:
- Attend all required appointments
- Ensure no failed or missed tests
- Avoid tampering or attempting to bypass the device
The financial and compliance requirements are part of Maryland’s strategy to ensure that only those committed to rehabilitation and accountability can continue to drive.
Failure to meet these responsibilities can result in removal from the program, re-imposition of the full suspension, or even additional penalties.
FAQ About Restricted or Hardship Licenses in Maryland
Does Maryland offer a hardship license after a DUI?
Not by name. Instead, Maryland provides restricted driving privileges through the Ignition Interlock Program.
Who qualifies for restricted driving privileges?
First-time offenders, high BAC cases, test refusals, and some repeat offenders may qualify if they meet the criteria and act quickly.
How soon after arrest do I need to apply?
You must request participation within 30 days of receiving the Order of Suspension to avoid full license loss.
What does the restricted license allow me to do?
It allows driving only in vehicles equipped with a certified ignition interlock device.
Can I choose any vehicle to install the device on?
Yes, but every vehicle you intend to drive must have its own ignition interlock device installed.
Is there a way to shorten the interlock period?
No. The duration is fixed by the MVA based on your offense and compliance.
What happens if I violate program rules?
Violations can lead to extended participation, removal from the program, or reinstatement of the full license suspension.
Conclusion
While Maryland does not use the term “hardship license,” drivers may be able to regain limited driving privileges after a DUI through the Ignition Interlock Program. This system allows eligible individuals to drive under strict monitoring conditions during their suspension period. Applying quickly, maintaining compliance, and meeting all program requirements are essential to keeping these restricted privileges.
To learn more about the broader DUI penalties and consequences in Maryland, or to explore full details about license suspension and driving restrictions after a DUI, check out our in-depth resources.