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 Pennsylvania, individuals whose driver's licenses have been suspended or revoked due to a DUI/DWI charge may be eligible to apply for an Occupational Limited License (OLL). The OLL permits limited driving privileges for essential life functions such as traveling to and from work, school, medical treatment, and court-ordered treatment or community service. It does not allow for driving to social events or for visiting family and friends. To apply for an OLL, the individual must serve a mandatory suspension period, which varies depending on the offense and the individual's driving history. After the mandatory period, they can submit an application to PennDOT, along with the required fee and proof of insurance, which may include an SR-22 form. The specific regulations and procedures for obtaining an OLL in Pennsylvania are detailed in the state's Vehicle Code under Title 75. It's important to note that not all drivers will be eligible for an OLL, and certain offenses may result in a longer waiting period or ineligibility for this type of license.