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Understanding Restricted Driving Privileges Following a DWI in Minnesota
When a person is arrested for Driving While Impaired (DWI) in Minnesota, one of the first consequences is the revocation or suspension of their driver’s license. This can immediately affect the ability to commute to work, attend school, care for children, or access medical treatment. In these cases, many people wonder: can you get a restricted or hardship license after a DWI in Minnesota?
The answer is yes—but with conditions. Minnesota does not use the term “hardship license” in official language. Instead, the state offers limited driving privileges through two primary options: a limited license (often referred to as a work permit) and the Ignition Interlock Device Program (IIDP). These programs allow qualified individuals to drive under controlled circumstances during their suspension or revocation period.
This post will walk through the process of obtaining restricted driving privileges after a DWI in Minnesota, explain eligibility requirements, outline what restrictions apply, and clarify how these programs differ based on the offense level.
What Is a Limited License in Minnesota?
A limited license in Minnesota is a type of restricted driving privilege available to certain drivers whose licenses have been suspended or revoked due to a DWI. It allows driving only for specific, essential purposes such as:
- Traveling to and from work
- Attending school
- Participating in chemical dependency treatment
- Providing for dependent family members
This license is typically available to first-time offenders or drivers with lower-level DWIs where the BAC was under 0.16 and no aggravating factors were involved.
To qualify, applicants must meet all the following conditions:
- Serve a mandatory waiting period (usually 15 days after revocation begins)
- Provide proof of insurance (SR-22 may be required)
- Submit an application and fee to the Department of Public Safety
- Comply with any court orders or treatment assessments
The limited license is issued for a set number of hours per week and is valid only for pre-approved activities. Violating its terms—such as driving outside authorized times—can result in additional penalties and revocation of all driving privileges.
The Role of the Ignition Interlock Device Program (IIDP)
For drivers who are not eligible for a limited license, or whose offense level requires stricter supervision, Minnesota offers the Ignition Interlock Device Program. This program allows individuals to regain partial or full driving privileges by agreeing to install a breathalyzer-based ignition interlock device in their vehicle.
The interlock device prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected on the driver’s breath. It also requires random rolling retests while the vehicle is in operation.
Eligibility and requirements depend on the offense:
- First-time DWI, BAC 0.16 or higher: Interlock required for 1 year
- Test refusal (first offense): Interlock required for 1 year
- Second offense within 10 years: Interlock required for 1 year
- Third offense: License is canceled; interlock participation for 3–6 years
- Fourth or more: Extended cancellation and interlock usage for multiple years
Participation involves:
- Installing the device at a certified provider
- Paying monthly monitoring and calibration fees
- Signing a participation agreement with DPS
- Maintaining violation-free usage throughout the required duration
The program provides a way to continue driving legally and fulfill personal obligations while serving a revocation. It’s also a path toward eventual license reinstatement.
How to Apply for Restricted Driving Privileges
Applying for restricted driving privileges in Minnesota involves multiple steps, depending on which program you’re pursuing.
For a Limited License:
- Wait the required period (typically 15 days after revocation begins).
- Contact DPS or visit the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) website.
- Complete the Limited License Application.
- Provide proof of insurance (standard or high-risk).
- Pay applicable fees (including reinstatement fees if required).
- If ordered, complete a chemical dependency evaluation.
For the Ignition Interlock Program:
- Visit the Minnesota DPS Ignition Interlock Program webpage.
- Enroll in the program by signing and submitting the participation agreement.
- Schedule and complete device installation with an approved vendor.
- Provide insurance documentation and installation verification.
- Pay the $680 reinstatement fee and application fee.
- Begin driving under program rules with full or limited privileges, depending on the offense level.
Approval for either program is not automatic. All documentation must be complete, and applicants must not have any unresolved violations or active criminal restrictions.
Restrictions and Conditions of Use
Whether granted a limited license or participating in the interlock program, drivers must follow strict rules. Violating these terms can lead to:
- Immediate cancellation of the restricted license
- Additional revocation time
- Ineligibility for future limited licenses or early reinstatement
- Possible criminal charges
For limited licenses:
- Driving is restricted to specific days and hours.
- Only pre-approved routes and destinations are allowed.
- Passengers may not be allowed unless required for child care or treatment.
For ignition interlock:
- Drivers must blow into the device before starting the vehicle and during operation.
- Any detection of alcohol triggers a violation and may extend the required interlock period.
- Tampering with the device, failing tests, or missing calibration appointments will reset the compliance timeline.
Both systems are closely monitored, and compliance is necessary not just for legal driving but also for license reinstatement eligibility.
What Offense Levels Disqualify You From Getting a Restricted License?
While Minnesota offers pathways to drive during a DWI suspension, not everyone qualifies. Disqualifying factors include:
- Multiple prior DWI convictions
- A BAC of 0.16 or higher without enrollment in the interlock program
- Test refusal without interlock participation
- Current revocation as “inimical to public safety”
- Failure to complete court-ordered treatment or evaluation
In these cases, the standard limited license is not available, and the ignition interlock program may be the only option—and sometimes not immediately. Offenders with three or more DWIs are usually required to demonstrate rehabilitation before any driving privileges are restored.
This includes completing a chemical dependency program, participating in monitoring, and remaining violation-free during multiple years of interlock participation.
Moving From Restricted Driving to Full License Reinstatement
Completing your restricted driving period—whether through a limited license or the ignition interlock program—is only part of the journey. You must meet all reinstatement requirements before receiving a full, unrestricted license.
These may include:
- Completion of the entire restricted period without violations
- Chemical dependency assessment and compliance with recommendations
- Proof of SR-22 insurance
- Passing the written DWI knowledge test
- Paying all reinstatement fees
If participating in the interlock program, drivers must also:
- Maintain continuous, violation-free use of the device
- Submit regular monitoring reports
- Complete the program’s exit requirements
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety reviews all documentation before approving full reinstatement. Any violation or missed step may delay or prevent license restoration.
FAQ: Restricted Licenses After a Minnesota DWI
Can I get a hardship license after a first-time DWI in Minnesota?
Yes. If your BAC was under 0.16, you may qualify for a limited license after a 15-day waiting period.
What is the difference between a limited license and interlock?
A limited license allows restricted driving without a breathalyzer. The interlock program requires a breathalyzer but often grants broader driving privileges.
Do I need to take a test to get my license back?
Yes. You’ll need to pass a written knowledge test, especially if your license was revoked for DWI.
Can I drive right away if I enroll in the interlock program?
In most cases, yes. Once you install the device and complete required paperwork, you can drive under program rules.
What if I violate the rules of my restricted license?
Violations may lead to cancellation of privileges, longer suspension periods, and possibly criminal charges.
Conclusion: Gaining Restricted Driving Privileges After a DWI in Minnesota
Restricted driving is possible after a DWI in Minnesota, but it depends on the offense level, BAC, and compliance with legal and administrative requirements. First-time offenders may qualify for a limited license, while others must participate in the ignition interlock program. Both options require strict adherence to rules and monitoring—but they offer a way to maintain essential mobility while working toward license reinstatement.
To learn more about license suspension and driving restrictions after a DWI, visit our guide on license suspension and driving restrictions after a DWI.
For a broader look at all DWI penalties and consequences, see our full page on DWI penalties and consequences.