Hardship License and Restricted Driving in Delaware

1. What is a Hardship License and how can I obtain one in Delaware?


A hardship license, or a suspended license, is a special type of restricted driver’s license issued in Delaware to certain drivers who cannot obtain a regular driver’s license due to a particular reason. It is often issued to individuals who have had their license suspended or revoked due to unpaid traffic tickets or other offenses. To obtain a hardship license in Delaware, an individual must meet the requirements set forth by the Delaware Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). These requirements include having an SR-22 on file with the DMV; proof of financial responsibility (insurance); a valid Delaware driver’s license; and payment of all applicable fees.

2. What are the eligibility requirements for a Hardship License in Delaware?


In order to be eligible for a Hardship License in Delaware, you must be at least 18 years of age and have had your license suspended or revoked due to a DUI conviction. You must also be able to prove that driving is essential to your livelihood or medical care, and you must have proof of financial responsibility (i.e. SR-22 insurance form). Additionally, you will need to have completed any required alcohol or drug treatment program, as well as an approved driver’s education program. Lastly, you must pass both a written and a road test in order to obtain the license.

3. What are the restrictions on a Hardship License in Delaware?


In Delaware, a hardship license, also known as a “formal probationary license,” is available for individuals who have had their driver’s license suspended or revoked due to certain violations, such as DUI or reckless driving. In order to qualify for a hardship license, applicants must meet certain requirements, including:

– Completion of an alcohol and/or drug awareness program, depending on the nature of the violation.
– Satisfactory proof of financial responsibility (SR-22 form)
– Completion of any court-ordered requirements related to the violation.
– Payment of all applicable fees.

Once the applicant has met all of the requirements for a hardship license, they will only be able to operate a vehicle for essential purposes, such as travel to and from work or school. In addition, all vehicles must be equipped with an ignition interlock device, which requires the driver to blow into a Breathalyzer before starting the vehicle.

4. How much does a Hardship License cost in Delaware?


A hardship license in Delaware will cost $20.

5. What documents do I need to apply for a Hardship License in Delaware?


In order to apply for a Hardship License in Delaware, you will need to provide a completed application form, proof of residency, proof of identity, proof of financial need, proof of insurance, and a copy of your driving record.

6. How long does it take to get a Hardship License in Delaware?


The process for obtaining a Hardship License in Delaware typically takes between two and four weeks.

7. Can I use a Hardship License to drive to work in Delaware?


Yes, you may be eligible for a hardship license which allows you to drive to and from work in Delaware. However, you must meet certain requirements to qualify for a hardship license, such as demonstrating that your ability to support yourself and your dependents is in jeopardy due to the lack of a driver’s license. The requirements vary by state, so be sure to contact your local DMV for more information.

8. Can I use a Hardship License to attend medical appointments in Delaware?


No, Delaware does not offer a hardship license for medical appointments.

9. What are the laws for Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Delaware?


In Delaware, an RDP may be issued to a first-time DUI offender if they can demonstrate that the RDP is necessary for the offender to maintain employment or attend school. The RDP restrictions are as follows:

-Must have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle for at least 12 months

-Must not drive with any alcohol or drugs in your system

-Must stay within a 25-mile radius of your primary residence

-Must not drive between the hours of midnight and 6:00 a.m.

-Must not drive any commercial vehicle, including employer-owned vehicles

-Must complete any court-ordered treatment programs and attend all court hearings and check-ins with the Probation Office.

10. Can I apply for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Delaware?


No, Delaware does not offer restricted driving privileges. However, if your driver’s license has been suspended or revoked for certain offenses, you may be eligible to apply for a Limited Driving Privilege (LDP). Contact the Division of Motor Vehicles to learn more about the eligibility requirements and the process for applying.

11. How much does a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) cost in Delaware?


In Delaware, the cost of a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) is $100.00.

12. What documents do I need to apply for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Delaware?


In Delaware, you must have your valid driver’s license, proof of valid insurance, and proof of identification (e.g., Social Security Number or birth certificate) to apply for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP). In addition, you may be asked to provide proof of enrollment in a drug and/or alcohol treatment program, proof of enrollment in a defensive driving course, or any other evidence the court may require.

13. What are the restrictions for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Delaware?


In Delaware, an RDP is only available to individuals whose licenses have been suspended or revoked for certain types of violations, such as DWI/DUI charges. An individual who has had their license suspended or revoked for other reasons (such as unpaid fines or an administrative error) is not eligible for an RDP. The individual must also be able to demonstrate that they are able to safely operate a motor vehicle and have a valid insurance policy. The RDP has restrictions in terms of the hours and days during which it is valid, as well as the geographic area within which it may be used. It may also include restrictions on the number of passengers that can be in the vehicle while the RDP is being used.

14. How long does it take to get a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Delaware?


The application process for a Delaware Restricted Driving Privilege typically takes 3 to 4 weeks. However, there may be delays due to administrative or other issues that may cause the process to take longer.

15. Can I use a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) to drive to work in Delaware?


No, Delaware does not recognize RDPs from other states. You must obtain a Delaware license to legally drive in the state.

16. Can I use a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) for medical appointments in Delaware?


No, Delaware does not offer Restricted Driving Privileges.

17. Are there any other restrictions on my driving privileges in Delaware?


Yes. As a new driver, you may be subject to the following restrictions:

– No cell phone use while driving (including hands-free devices)
– Limited nighttime driving (between 9:00pm and 6:00am)
– No driving with more than one non-family passenger under age 18
– No driving outside of Delaware without prior approval
– A 40 hour supervised driving period before taking the road skills test
– Passengers and cargo must not exceed the vehicle’s suggested weight limits

18. Who is eligible for a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Delaware?


In Delaware, a person may be eligible for a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) if they are between the ages of 18 and 21 and have had their license suspended or revoked due to a violation of the Delaware Impaired Driving Law or violations of the Delaware Motor Vehicle Code. The person must also have had no other suspensions or revocations on their record for a period of 12 months prior to the application.

19. How long is the validity of a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Delaware?


In Delaware, a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) typically has a two year validity period.

20. Are there any additional costs associated with obtaining a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Delaware?


Yes, there are additional costs associated with obtaining a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in Delaware. These costs include a $100.00 license reissue fee and a $50.00 court cost fee. In addition, the applicant must maintain an SR-22 for the duration of their restricted driving privilege and could incur additional fees for an ignition interlock device if required by the court.