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 Connecticut, individuals whose driver's licenses have been suspended or revoked due to a DUI/DWI charge may be eligible to apply for a Special Operator’s Permit, which is similar to what is known in some jurisdictions as an occupational or restricted driver's license. This permit allows for limited driving privileges to perform essential activities. The eligibility for such a permit depends on the specifics of the suspension, the individual's driving history, and the completion of certain requirements, such as an alcohol education program. The permit typically allows driving to and from work, school, alcohol or drug treatment programs, and any court-ordered treatment or community service programs. To apply for this permit, individuals must provide proof of insurance, often in the form of an SR-22 certificate, and pay applicable fees to the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It's important to note that the conditions and restrictions of the Special Operator’s Permit are strictly enforced, and driving outside the permitted reasons can result in further penalties.