Reader’s Question:

I was told that my father could get an occupational driver’s license so that he could still drive while his license was suspended because of a DUI charge in Texas. How does this occupational driver’s license work and how can he obtain this?

Lucy

Corpus Christi, TX

Aside from worrying about getting out of jail, people charged with DUI in Texas also worry about having able to drive again once they bail themselves out and wait for their trial. Since your father was charged with DUI, his license was automatically suspended. Now, he needs to find a way to get himself to work and back to your home. He can be given an occupational driver’s license on a short term basis until his regular license can be used again. This kind of license is only for those who need to operate a non-commercial vehicle in Texas to drive to and from work. This enables your father to continue to work even though he is awaiting his court trial date.

Your father would have to speak to a judge in order for him to get an occupational driver’s license. The judge will send an order to your local Department of Public Safety (DPS) office saying that he is only allowed to have this specific license and no other. He has to remember that this license is only to get him to and from work and nowhere else. If he is pulled over for driving anywhere other than where he is supposed to be, then his occupational license will be immediately revoked and he will not be able to drive at all.

Tags: DUI, DUI lawyer