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 Idaho, individuals whose driver's licenses have been suspended or revoked due to a DUI/DWI charge may be eligible to apply for a restricted driving permit, sometimes referred to as a temporary restricted license (TRL). This permit allows for limited driving privileges to perform essential activities. The eligibility for a TRL and the specific conditions under which it can be used are outlined in Idaho Code § 49-326 and related statutes. The restricted permit typically allows driving to and from work, school, alcohol treatment programs, and other necessary appointments such as medical visits. To apply for a TRL, individuals must provide proof of financial responsibility, often in the form of an SR-22 insurance certificate, and may be required to pay application fees. The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) handles the issuance of these permits, and applicants must demonstrate that the inability to drive would cause extreme hardship. It's important to note that the TRL does not permit driving for social visits or non-essential activities, and the scope of the permit is strictly enforced.