Can I Receive a Wisconsin Occupational License After an OWI Charge?

 Posted on January 28,2020 in DUI/OWI

Even though Wisconsin tends to be one of the most lenient states when it comes to operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, there are still serious consequences that you can face if you are convicted of these criminal charges. By far, one of the most aggravating consequences of a Wisconsin OWI charge is the fact that you can have your driver’s license suspended or revoked. If this happens, you will be unable to drive for a specified period of time -- unless you have what is called an occupational driver’s license. This type of license allows a person to continue to drive during a suspension or revocation period for certain reasons. Although it is not an ideal situation overall, an occupational license can help immensely.

Eligibility for an Occupational License

If your driver’s license has been suspended because of OWI-related charges, you may be able to have a temporary occupational license issued. In general, most people will qualify for an occupational license if their license has been suspended because of an OWI arrest. However, under the following circumstances, you may not be eligible to receive an occupational license:

• You are not a Wisconsin resident.

• You are a juvenile who committed certain offenses.

• You have had your license suspended because you did not pay traffic tickets or other citations.

• You never held a Wisconsin driver’s license.

• You are eligible to reinstate your driver’s license after it was suspended or revoked.

• You have two or more suspensions or revocations that occurred within a one-year period.

• You have not served your mandatory waiting period.

Requirements for an Occupational License

When you hold a normal driver’s license, you are able to use that to drive whenever and wherever you please. With an occupational license, there are restrictions as to when and where you can drive. An occupational license is intended to be used to keep your household running and allow you to transport yourself to work. Approved uses for an occupational license include:

• Driving to and from school or work

• Running errands to maintain your household, including going to the gas station, laundromat, grocery store, or pharmacy

• Traveling to and from your place of worship

• Attending to necessary family needs, such as doctor’s appointments

You are not permitted to use your occupational license for recreational purposes, such as visiting friends or attending social or sporting events. If you are caught driving when you are not supposed to be, you could face serious consequences, such as fines and incarceration.

Contact a Waukesha County Criminal Defense Attorney

Being charged with or convicted of OWI can leave you in a serious predicament. Not only will you likely experience a driver’s license suspension or revocation, but you may also face expensive fines and even jail time in some cases. If you have been charged with a Wisconsin OWI, you should immediately call a Milwaukee County OWI defense lawyer. At the Bucher Law Group, LLC, we can help you mitigate any consequences you may face for OWI, including applying for and receiving an occupational license. Call our office today at 262-303-4916 to schedule a free consultation.

Sources:

https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/license-drvs/susp-or-rvkd/occ-license.aspx

https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/license-drvs/susp-or-rvkd/occ-eligibility.aspx