A driver whose license has been suspended or revoked following arrest for a DUI/DWI charge may sometimes apply for an occupational or restricted driver’s license to perform essential life functions until the driver is able to seek to have their driver’s license reinstated. This temporary and limited driver’s license is known by a number of names, including an occupational license, a restricted license, an essential need license, a hardship license, or a limited driving privilege (LDP) license.

Laws regarding the availability and use of such restricted licenses vary from state to state but generally allow the driver to drive to and from (1) work; (2) school, college, or university; (3) places the driver must visit to maintain the household, including the grocery store or market, pharmacy, laundromat, and gas station; (4) church or place of worship; (5) medical appointments; and (6) court-ordered alcohol treatment and rehabilitation programs. Driving to visit family or friends or to attend social events is not permitted on a restricted license.

A person applying for an occupational or restricted driver’s license will be required to pay application fees to the department of motor vehicles and will often be required to submit an SR-22 proof of insurance form (see the related subtopic).

Laws regarding the availability and use of restricted licenses following a DUI/DWI arrest are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the vehicle code, motor vehicle code, or transportation code.

In Arizona, individuals whose driver's licenses have been suspended or revoked due to a DUI/DWI charge may be eligible to apply for a special restricted driver's license, commonly referred to as a 'Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver License' (SIIRDL). This type of license allows the individual to drive to and from certain essential places such as work, school, substance abuse treatment programs, and medical appointments. To qualify for a SIIRDL, the individual must install an ignition interlock device on their vehicle, provide proof of future financial responsibility (usually in the form of an SR-22 insurance policy), and meet other specific requirements set by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). The availability of a restricted license depends on the individual's specific circumstances, including the nature of the DUI/DWI offense and their driving history. It is important to consult with an attorney to understand the eligibility criteria and the application process for obtaining a restricted license in Arizona.