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Losing your license after a DUI can significantly impact daily life—especially if you rely on driving for work, school, or family responsibilities. In Idaho, one of the most common questions after a DUI arrest or conviction is whether it’s possible to get a restricted or hardship license. These special permits allow limited driving privileges during a suspension period, often with strict conditions attached.
Idaho does allow some drivers to apply for restricted licenses after a DUI, but not everyone qualifies. The eligibility depends on multiple factors, including the nature of the offense, the driver’s record, and whether chemical testing was refused. While a restricted license is never guaranteed, it can offer a critical path forward for individuals facing suspension due to a first-time DUI conviction.
This post explains how Idaho’s restricted license process works after a DUI, who qualifies, what the requirements are, and when a hardship license may not be an option. Whether you’re researching for yourself or someone else, this guide covers the process in a clear, neutral, and informative way.
What Is a Restricted License and How Does It Work in Idaho?
A restricted license—sometimes referred to as a hardship license—allows limited driving privileges during a suspension period. In Idaho, these licenses are available to eligible DUI offenders for essential purposes like:
- Commuting to and from work
- Attending school or classes
- Traveling to medical appointments
- Meeting court-ordered obligations (e.g., DUI classes, probation check-ins)
Restricted licenses are issued by the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD), often in coordination with court directives. They come with strict limitations and are not available to all offenders. The driving privileges granted do not restore full license rights; they only permit travel along specific, pre-approved routes for approved purposes.
In most cases, the driver must serve a mandatory portion of their suspension without driving before becoming eligible to apply. This minimum “hard suspension” period varies depending on the type of offense and whether it’s a first or repeat DUI.
Eligibility Requirements for a Restricted DUI License in Idaho
Not all DUI offenders in Idaho are eligible for a restricted license. The state imposes specific criteria based on offense history, compliance with court orders, and behavior during the arrest process.
General eligibility requirements include:
- First-time DUI offense (with no prior DUIs in the last 10 years)
- Completion of 30 days of absolute license suspension
- Installation of an ignition interlock device on all vehicles operated
- Proof of SR-22 insurance (a special high-risk insurance certificate)
- Payment of all required reinstatement and application fees
Offenders must also be in good standing with the court and the DMV. This means completing any required evaluations, enrolling in alcohol education programs, and resolving any pending legal matters tied to the DUI.
Ineligible individuals include:
- Those who refused chemical testing
- Individuals convicted of an aggravated or felony DUI
- Drivers with multiple DUI convictions
- Offenders who caused injury or significant property damage during the incident
Idaho takes these restrictions seriously, and eligibility is reviewed carefully before approval is granted.
When and How to Apply for a Restricted License
In Idaho, the restricted license application process is handled through the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD), not the court system. However, a judge may recommend or approve eligibility as part of sentencing.
The general process includes the following steps:
- Wait out the mandatory no-driving period
First-time offenders must typically complete 30 days of absolute suspension with no driving before applying. - Install an ignition interlock device
This device must be installed on every vehicle you plan to operate. Proof of installation is required as part of the application. - File SR-22 insurance
Drivers must obtain and maintain SR-22 insurance and provide proof to the ITD. - Submit application to the ITD
The application may include court documentation, insurance proof, ignition interlock verification, and a reinstatement fee. - Receive decision
If approved, the ITD issues a restricted license with clear limitations. If denied, the applicant must wait out the full suspension.
Applications are typically reviewed within a few weeks, though processing times may vary by county or case complexity.
Ignition Interlock Device Requirements for Restricted Licenses
In nearly all cases where a restricted license is issued after a DUI, Idaho law requires the use of an ignition interlock device (IID). This device prevents a vehicle from starting unless the driver provides a clean breath sample, confirming the absence of alcohol.
Key details about IID requirements:
- The device must be installed before the restricted license is issued
- All vehicles operated by the offender must have the device installed
- Regular calibration and compliance checks are required
- The cost of installation and maintenance is paid by the driver
The duration of IID usage varies based on the offense, but for most first-time DUIs, it is required for the entire restricted license period. The court or DMV may extend the use of the IID if there are compliance issues or if it is deemed necessary for public safety.
Failure to install or properly use the IID will result in denial or revocation of the restricted license.
Restrictions and Limitations of a DUI Hardship License
A restricted or hardship license in Idaho comes with a range of strict limitations. It is not equivalent to a regular license and cannot be used for general driving purposes.
Common restrictions include:
- Driving only during approved hours (e.g., work shift times)
- Traveling only to and from specific locations (e.g., workplace, school, treatment center)
- No out-of-state driving unless authorized
- Required use of ignition interlock for every trip
- Immediate revocation if terms are violated
The Idaho Transportation Department may tailor the restricted license conditions based on the application and supporting documentation. All drivers must carry the restricted license at all times and follow the terms exactly.
Violating any part of the license’s conditions can lead to revocation of driving privileges, additional suspension time, or new penalties.
When a Restricted License Is Not Allowed
Idaho law excludes certain DUI offenders from obtaining restricted driving privileges. These exclusions are built into state law and are not subject to appeal.
A restricted or hardship license will not be granted to individuals who:
- Refused a breath, blood, or urine test under Idaho’s implied consent law
- Were convicted of a second or third DUI offense
- Are serving time for a felony DUI conviction
- Caused serious injury or death during the DUI incident
- Have a record of prior restricted license violations
In addition, anyone whose license is revoked—not just suspended—due to a DUI conviction may not qualify for hardship driving privileges.
For these individuals, the only option is to wait until the suspension or revocation period ends and then apply for full reinstatement of their license, following all Idaho DMV requirements.
FAQ: DUI Restricted License Process in Idaho
Can you get a restricted license after a first DUI in Idaho?
Yes, first-time offenders may qualify for a restricted license after serving 30 days of absolute suspension, provided they meet all other requirements.
Do you need an ignition interlock device for a restricted license?
Yes, Idaho requires an IID for all restricted licenses issued after a DUI.
Is a restricted license available if you refused a BAC test?
No. Refusing a test disqualifies you from obtaining a restricted or hardship license during your suspension.
How long can you use a restricted license?
The duration depends on the overall suspension period. The restricted license is valid until full reinstatement is allowed, as long as all terms are followed.
What happens if you violate the terms of a restricted license?
Violations can lead to immediate revocation of the license, extended suspension time, or additional penalties.
Can you apply for a restricted license more than once?
If denied, you may reapply later, provided your circumstances change (e.g., completing more of the suspension period or meeting eligibility requirements).
Who decides if you get a restricted license?
The final decision is made by the Idaho Transportation Department, based on documents, compliance, and legal eligibility.
Conclusion
In Idaho, a restricted or hardship license can provide limited driving privileges after a DUI—but only for those who meet the state’s eligibility criteria. First-time offenders who comply with suspension rules, install an ignition interlock device, and file proper insurance may be approved to drive for work, school, or essential needs. However, test refusals, repeat offenses, or felony convictions make restricted licenses unavailable. Idaho enforces strict standards to ensure public safety, and even approved drivers must follow precise rules while using a restricted license.
To better understand the full range of DUI consequences in Idaho, explore the DUI penalties and consequences page. For detailed information on license limitations and driving restrictions, visit the license suspension and driving restrictions after a DUI guide.