- English
- Español
Occupational Driver’s License
Ask for a special restricted license that lets you drive a noncommercial vehicle for work, school, or to perform essential household duties.
Last Updated on December 12, 2022
- Overview
- Articles
Overview
Guide Overview
Warning: The information and forms in this guide are not a substitute for the advice and help of a lawyer
If your driver’s license was suspended or revoked you may still be allowed to drive under certain circumstances if you get an occupational driver’s license (ODL).
An occupational driver’s license is a special restricted license that lets you drive a non-commercial vehicle for work, school or to perform essential household duties.
To get an occupational driver’s license you must first get a court order that authorizes the Texas Department of Public Safety to issue the license.
The process can take weeks to complete and can get complicated. You may need to hire an attorney to help you reach your goal. It’s a good idea to ask a lawyer to help you determine if you qualify for an occupational driver’s license. You can also hire a lawyer to review your forms before you file them with the court.
Research Tips
·Texas Transportation Code chapter 521 subchapter L
·Texas Transportation Code chapter 601.
·Texas Health and Safety Code section 469.009.
·Texas Transportation Code, Title 7, Subtitle B, Ch. 521, Subtitle I, Ch. 708.
Common questions about Occupational Driver’s License
An occupational driver’s license (ODL) is a restricted license that lets you drive at certain times, on specific days, under certain conditions, when you have an “essential need to drive.”
An “essential need” means you need to drive to:
- Do your job,
- Get to and from work or school, or
- Do essential household duties.
The surcharge program ended on September 1, 2019. This means Texas removedany surcharges that were in effect on September 1, 2019. If your license was suspended due solely to surcharges, it should be automatically reinstated.
Sometimes, if your license is suspended because:
- of a criminal homicide, or an intoxication offense under Penal Code 49.04-49.08
- you are under 21 and your license is suspended according to Texas Transportation Code 521.342.
You may use a certified copy of the Order for ODL to drive for 45 days once the order takes effect. Read your Order to learn when it takes effect.
If you don’t receive your actual ODL from DPS before the 45th day you can’t drive until you either receive the ODL or go back to court to get an Amended Order for ODL that extends the deadline.
Be careful: To get your certified Abstract online, you MUST verify that ALL of your DPS records (DL, ID or unlicensed record) have been CONSOLIDATED or you risk purchasing incomplete information and may need to purchase additional records.
If you have determined that your records are consolidated, you may purchase your driving record online, with a credit card and print it out. The online cost is $22. You will need to enter your driver’s license number and license audit number from your most recent DL (or ID, if your records are CONSOLIDATED) and the last four digits of your social security number at: www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/driverrecords.htm
To get a Certified Abstract by mail, print the DR-1 form called “Request for a Certified Abstract of a Driver Record” from www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/driverrecords.htm
Mail the completed form and a $20 check or money order to Texas DPS. This form does not require the audit number or your social security number.
An Order for ODL will take effect as soon as a judge signs it UNLESS one of the following waiting periods (also called “hard suspension”) applies.
If your license was suspended for refusing or failing a blood or breath test when arrested for DWI or other alcohol or drug-related driving or boating offense, the order for ODL cannot take effect for:
- 90 days after your license was suspended — if during the 5 years before your arrest your license was suspended because of an alcohol or drug-related arrest.
- 180 days after your license was suspended — if during the 5 years before your arrest your license was suspended because of a DWI, Intoxication Assault, or Manslaughter conviction.
- 365 days after your license was suspended — if during the 5 years before your arrest your license was suspended because of a second (or more) DWI, Intoxication Assault, or Manslaughter conviction.
Instructions & Forms
Instructions & Forms
Warning: The information and forms in this guide are not a substitute for the advice and help of a lawyer
Checklist Steps
Sometimes people think they need an Occupational Driver’s License when they could just reinstate their license.
Before asking the court for an ODL, check your license eligibility status at www.Texas.gov/driver. Click on “Drivers License Reinstatement and Status.”
This free site will tell you if you can drive with your current license and, if not, what you need to do to become eligible. If you are not eligible, the website will tell you:
- The requirements to meet.
- The fees you need to pay.
You can pay fees on this website and get information on how to mail proof that you met the compliance requirements to DPS. Keep checking the website because it is updated daily.
You can also call the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to check your eligibility/qualifying status at 512-424-2600 (English) and 512-424-7181 (Español)
Be careful! Recent court actions, out-of–state violations, and AG-reported child support arrearages may not be reflected in your current eligibility status.
Even if you get a court order for an Occupational Driver’s License, DPS cannot issue one if:
- You lost your driving privileges for a medical condition.
- You lost your driving privileges because you owe child support.
- You have received two ODLs after a conviction in the past 10 years.
- You don’t qualify to get a Texas driver’s license because you are in the United States unlawfully. The documents to verify that you are a citizen or that you are in the United States lawfully are listed on the Texas DPS website.
- Two court forms:
- The Petition for Occupational Driver’s License asks the Court to issue an order.
- The Order for Occupational Driver’s License orders DPS to issue you an ODL. (make sure to scroll down for the Order once you click the link. The Order starts on page 6 of the 10 page PDF document.)
Get forms for the Petition and the Order here.
- Certified Abstract (Type AR) of your driving record:
Be careful: To get your certified Abstract online, you MUST verify that ALL of your DPS records (DL, ID or unlicensed record) have been CONSOLIDATED or you risk purchasing incomplete information and may need to purchase additional records.
If you have determined that your records are consolidated, you may purchase your driving record online, with a credit card and print it out. The online cost is $22. You will need to enter your driver’s license number and license audit number from your most recent DL (or ID, if your records are CONSOLIDATED) and the last four digits of your social security number at: www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/driverrecords.htm
To get a Certified Abstract by mail, print the DR-1 form called “Request for a Certified Abstract of a Driver Record” from www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/driverrecords.htm
Mail the completed form and a $20 check or money order to Texas DPS. This form does not require the audit number or your social security number.
- Proof that you need to drive to go to work, school, or perform essential household duties, etc. Examples of proof: your school schedule or registration, a current pay stub, a letter from your job, or an affidavit (sworn statement) explaining your need to drive.
- SR-22 proof of insurance from your insurance company. Get the SR-22 (also called a “Financial Responsibility Certificate”) from your insurance company. The SR-22 proves that you have the minimum liability insurance required by law. If you don’t own a vehicle, you can get a Texas Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance Policy. Your insurance company will tell DPS if the SR-22 coverage lapses, terminates or is cancelled—and then your ODL will be revoked.
- Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs. Fill out this form only if you have a low-income, receive public assistance because you have a low income, or cannot pay the court filing fee. Read for more information.
When you file your Petition for Occupational Driver's License with the Court you are asking the court to order DPS to issue you an Occupational Driver’s License.
- If your license was automatically suspended or canceled following a conviction, file the Petition in the same court that convicted you.
- If your license has not been suspended or canceled following a conviction, file the Petition in the county where you live or where the offense that is currently suspending your license occurred. You may have a choice between filing in District Court, County Court-at-Law or Justice of the Peace (JP) court. If so, you may want to research local procedures, court costs, and court scheduling to decide which court is best for your situation.
Ask the court clerk when you should come back for the hearing. You may need to schedule a time for your hearing.
When you go to Court, bring:
- The Order for Occupational Driver’s License form. Fill out all but the restrictions and the judge’s signature.
- A Certified Abstract of your full driver record (Type AR).
- The SR-22 from your insurance company.
- Some courts may require a copy of the court order suspending your license and/or the notice of suspension from DPS.
- Proof that you need to drive.
- A copy of the filed Petition.
Note: If you filed a form to request the court filing fees be waived, the court may require proof of income & expenses.
At the hearing:
- The judge reviews your Petition and other paperwork. Then the judge decides whetherto sign the Order granting an occupational license.
- If the judge signs the order, he/she will mark the restrictions as to when and where you can drive.
- After the judge signs your order, get a certified copy of your filed Petition and at least two certified copies of the Order from the clerk.
You may use a certified copy of the Order for Occupational Driver's License to drive for 45 days after the order takes effect. Read your order to learn when it takes effect. See the FAQs about waiting periods.
If you don’t receive your ODL from TxDPS before the 45th day you can’t drive until you either receive the ODL or go back to court to get an Amended Order for ODL that extends the deadline.
A court’s occupational driver’s license Order is not the license itself. Rather, it is a court order telling the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to issue an occupational driver’s license to you.
After you get the court Order, you must contact DPS to get the actual occupational driver's license.
Mail the following documents to DPS as soon as possible!
- a certified copy of your Petition for ODL
- a certified copy of the Order for ODL that was signed by the Judge
- your SR-22 proof of insurance certificate,
- A check, money order or cashier’s check payable to the Texas DPS for the Occupational License fee. Send $10 for a 1-year license or $20 for a 2-year license.
- A check, money order or cashier’s check made out to the Texas Department of Public Safety for the amount you owe in reinstatement fees, if any. Go to www.Texas.gov/driver or call DPS at 512-424-2600 to find out what you owe.
Mail all the documents together by certified mail return receipt requested (so that you have proof you mailed them) to:
Texas DPS Central Cash ReceivingBox 15999
Austin, Texas 78761-5999
Forms Required
-
Forms for Occupational Driver's License.
CV-ODL-KIT
Petition and Order for Occupational Driver's License. The Petition requests license. A signed Order grants the request.
Download Form
-
Fee Waiver (Bilingual) - Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs or an Appeal Bond
CB-CFFW-100
Use to ask a court to waive court costs, appeal bonds, or cash deposits; based on your inability to pay.
Download Form
Articles
Articles in this guide
-
Clear or seal your record? Expunctions vs. Nondisclosures in Texas
The difference between clearing (expunction) and sealing (nondisclosure) your criminal record in Texas.
Read More
(Video) Texas Occupational Driver’s License Application | Texas DWI License Suspension | Austin DWI Lawyer
FAQs
I need an Occupational Driver’s License.? ›
You must petition the Justice of the Peace, county or district court where you currently reside, or to the court of original jurisdiction where the offense has occurred, to obtain an occupational driver license.
How to apply for an occupational license in Louisiana? ›To obtain an Occupational License, your must complete the Business Registration Application Form for OLT/Sales Tax located under Tax Forms and submit it to the Revenue Division along with a check made payable to the City and Parish Treasurer for $50 for businesses that open between January 1-June 30 or $25 for ...
What do I need to do to get an occupational license in Wisconsin? ›- Check your eligibility
- Complete the Application for Occupational Operator License form MV3027. ...
- Complete the Wisconsin Driver License application form MV3001.
- Complete any required tests, including vision screening.
- Provide proof of your identity.
- A certified copy of the petition.
- A signed and stamped court order (which must include the allowable hours and counties)
- An SR-22, proof of financial responsibility.
- A check or money order for all reinstatement fees owed.
To get an occupational driver's license you must first get a court order that authorizes the Texas Department of Public Safety to issue the license. The process can take weeks to complete and can get complicated. You may need to hire an attorney to help you reach your goal.
Where can I get a hardship license in Louisiana? ›To obtain a hardship license, you must first petition your parish's district court. If there is a change in your court order, or if your driving needs change, you must petition the district court again.
What is a local occupational license? ›Occupational licensing, also called licensure, is a form of government regulation requiring a license to pursue a particular profession or vocation for compensation. It is related to occupational closure.
What is occupational licensing? ›Occupational licensing—the legal requirement that a credential be obtained in order to practice a profession—is a common labor market regulation that ostensibly exists to protect public health and safety.
How much does it cost to get an occupational license in Wisconsin? ›To get an occupational license in Wisconsin, you need to fill out the application, pay $50, submit to required tests, and submit an SR-22.
What is an occupational license quizlet? ›Occupational License is a permit to practice a particular occupation. Occupational licensing is the government or industry practice of issuing a license in order to control the standard of work done. The system of licensing different occupations were developed in order to: • Protect consumers from non licensed traders.
What is an occupational license Louisiana? ›
Occupational licenses are essentially taxes on the gross receipts of various classes of businesses and professions. There are virtually no exemptions, except that there is a minimum and maximum tax which may be paid by an individual or firm.
How much does it cost to file for an occupational license in Texas? ›| License type | *Fee |
|---|---|
| Under 18 | $16 |
| Limited term driver license For temporary visitors to the US | $33 |
| Occupational driver license | |
| New or renewal | $10 per year |
Suspension in a Different State or Jurisdiction
If your driver license status is suspended, revoked, denied, or cancelled in another state, you are not eligible to apply for Texas driver license.
Depending on those circumstances an attorney can charge as little as $500.00 and as much as $950.00 for their services. This may or may not include the fees associated with the case. See the section below to understand how our occupational driver license lawyers bill our clients and what services that includes.
Can judge deny occupational license in Texas? ›There are certain requirements that must be me in order to obtain an occupational driver license in Texas. Even if you are eligible to get an occupational driver license, if you do not take care of these issues first, then the judge will deny your request.
How long does it take to get a Texas OT license? ›How long does it take to receive your occupational therapy license in Texas? It typically takes up to 2 weeks to receive your occupational license in Texas. This is fast compared to other occupational therapy licenses across the United States.
How do I get my suspended license back in Louisiana? ›Driver Reinstatement Status Inquiry
Reinstatements will ONLY be provided via the Contact Us link at the bottom of this page, by phone, by mail or by a Public Tag Agency utilizing one of the following options: OMV Call Center: 225-925-6146 – Option No. 3. OMV Mail Center: P.O.
A restricted license shall be issued by the department and designated by a large red "R" printed on the face of the license. The term of the restrictions shall be the same as the term of the original suspension, cancellation, or revocation.
How do I get a temporary license in Louisiana? ›- Proof of identification.
- Proof of residency.
- Verification of your Social Security Number. ...
- You must also present one additional form of identification such as a photo work ID, high school diploma, insurance card, etc.
Licensing is intended to ensure that only competent and ethical individuals practice in an occupation. Examples of occupations licensed in many states include: teachers, land surveyors, doctors, lawyers, cosmetologists, nurses, building contractors, counselors, therapists, and electricians.
How to apply for occupational license in New Orleans? ›
- Register your trade name, partnership or company with the Louisiana Secretary of State (225) 925-4704.
- Register and get a federal tax ID number (800) 829-4933 and your state tax ID with the Louisiana Department of Revenue (504) 568-5233 or (225) 219-7462.
Local Permits
You may need a general business license from your local government (city or county). These local licenses are typically easy to obtain and require paying a fee to the city or county clerk.
All businesses are required to acquire an annual business license. "Business" includes all businesses, trades, professions, occupations, vocations, or callings unless specifically excluded by law. The license tax must be paid prior to commencement of business.
Why is occupational licensing important? ›Licensing occupations certainly has its benefits. Most importantly, it helps protect the health and safety of California consumers. It also professionalizes occupations and standardizes services.
Does Louisiana require a business license? ›You'll need a Louisiana business license to start a business in the state, and you'll need to obtain a business license from the Secretary of State. Depending on which corporation form you would like to register, you will need to provide additional information for permits and register your business for taxation.
How long do I need an sr22 in Wisconsin? ›In Wisconsin, You Have to Have an SR-22 for a Minimum of Three Years. There is a lot of confusion surrounding both SR-22s and OWI offenses in general. An SR-22 is a form that your insurance company files with the DMV to certify that you are insured after being classified as a high-risk driver.
What is a driver safety plan in WI? ›The driver safety plan outlines what the driver must do in response to the findings to complete the Intoxicated Driver Program. Proposed actions may vary. Examples include: Attend a traffic safety program (or similar education program).
What do most occupational licenses granted by states have both? ›Most occupational licenses granted by states have both educational and testing requirements. Learners must acquire more information than that needed to pass tests in their classes.
Which of the following describes a downside to occupational licenses? ›Which of the following describes a downside to occupational licenses? They create a barrier to entry to certain industries.
Which of the following is true of occupational licensing laws? ›Occupational licensing laws reduce. Which of the following is true of occupational licensing laws? Occupational licensing requires that the competency of workers be certified, but no one is prohibited from providing their services in the licensed occupations.
Does Florida require an Occupational License? ›
The state of Florida doesn't require or issue a state-wide business operating license. Instead, it regulates some industries and professionals, like doctors, lawyers and accountants. You likely have to get a business operating license from your city or county, though requirements vary.
How do I renew my Occupational License in Louisiana? ›- The account number and PIN are printed on the hard-copy renewal form mailed out each year.
- Contact our office at 225-389-3084 or email us.
OT licenses are issued by the California Board of Occupational Therapy and typically take three to four weeks to process. Once you have your license, you can access jobs in a state that offers the second highest annual mean salary for occupational therapists.
How much is Louisiana driver's license? ›Driver's license fees vary depending on the office location and the age of the applicant. a. $32.25 - the basic license fee until age 69 b. $18.75 - the license fee for applicants age 70 and older c.
Can you drive a company vehicle with an occupational license in Texas? ›You cannot drive a commercial vehicle with an occupational driver's license. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (TxDPS), “An occupational driver license cannot be issued for purposes of operating a commercial motor vehicle during a period of license suspension, revocation, cancellation or denial.”
How much is TDLR license application? ›There is a non-refundable application fee of $50. You must be at least 17 years old to apply. Operator licenses are valid for two years from the date of issue.
Can you drive with a suspended license in Texas? ›Driving on a suspended or revoked license in Texas is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500.
Is it illegal to drive while your license is suspended in Texas? ›Driving While License Invalid or Driving While License Suspended is considered a Class B misdemeanor in Texas. If convicted, you face possible jail time of 72 hours to 6 months plus a fine in the range of $100-$500.
Can you have an out of state driver's license in Texas? ›Transferring an Out of State Driver License to Texas. New Texas residents can legally drive with a valid, unexpired driver license from another U.S. state, U.S. territory, Canadian province, or qualifying country for up to 90 days after moving to Texas.
Who qualifies for an occupational license in Texas? ›An occupational driver license, also called an essential need license, is a special type of restricted license issued to you when your driver license has been suspended, revoked or denied for certain offenses, other than a medical reason or delinquent child support.
What are the rules for an occupational license in Texas? ›
- Carry a certified copy of the court order whenever you are driving.
- Get alcohol dependence counseling from a state-approved facility. ...
- Use an ignition interlock device to keep your vehicle from starting if you have been drinking.
You may submit your renewal application up to 90 days prior to the expiration date of your license. Make sure you are eligible: Check the renewal requirements for your license type. Check your current continuing education credits by finding your license information on the TCEQ Licensing Search page.
Is it hard to get an occupational license in Texas? ›The process can take weeks to complete and can get complicated. You may need to hire an attorney to help you reach your goal. It's a good idea to ask a lawyer to help you determine if you qualify for an occupational driver's license. You can also hire a lawyer to review your forms before you file them with the court.
Can I get my license if I have a warrant in Texas? ›According to findlaw.com, dealing with the active warrant first is your only option if you need a state ID or driver's license. You may need to pay outstanding fines, attend a court date, or speak with a judge or probation officer to clear the warrant.
What jurisdiction is Texas occupational license? ›The Department of Public Safety's website says: “Requests for an occupational license must be made to the county or district court where the individual lives or to the court of original jurisdiction where the offense occurred.”
What do you need to be an OTA in Texas? ›What is the required education and training? The occupational therapist must graduate from an accredited program and complete a minimum of 6 months of supervised clinical experience. The occupational therapy assistant completes an accredited program and at least 12 weeks of supervised fieldwork experience.
What are the requirements for OT license renewal in Texas? ›- The renewal fees: See current fees.
- Completion of the renewal form, on paper or online.
- Fingerprinting Requirement for Renewals, Effective 1/1/2019. ...
- Completion of the required Continuing Education requirement. ...
- Passing score on the online Jurisprudence Examination (JP) Exam.
To practice as an Occupational Therapist in Texas, you must possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree from an ACOTE accredited school.
How do I become an occupational therapist in Louisiana? ›You must graduate from an ACOTE certified school with a Bachelor's or Master's degree in an occupational therapy related field, to qualify for an Occupational Therapist license in Louisiana. Louisiana has two schools with accredited programs: Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans.
How do I get an occupational license in New Orleans? ›- Register your trade name, partnership or company with the Louisiana Secretary of State (225) 925-4704.
- Register and get a federal tax ID number (800) 829-4933 and your state tax ID with the Louisiana Department of Revenue (504) 568-5233 or (225) 219-7462.
How do I get a DME license in Louisiana? ›
A person or other entity desiring to obtain a DME permit shall complete the application form supplied by the board and submit it with any required attachments and the application fee to the board.
How much does an OTA make in Louisiana? ›The average Occupational Therapist salary in Louisiana is $91,346 as of May 01, 2023, but the range typically falls between $83,674 and $99,511.
What do Occupational Therapist do? ›Occupational therapists evaluate and treat people who have injuries, illnesses, or disabilities. They help clients meet goals to develop, recover, improve, and maintain skills needed for daily living and working.
How much do occupational therapists get paid near New Orleans LA? ›The average salary for a occupational therapist in New Orleans, LA is $62,000 per year. Occupational therapist salaries in New Orleans, LA can vary between $34,500 to $90,500 and depend on various factors, including skills, experience, employer, bonuses, tips, and more.
How do I get my occupational therapy license in USA? ›In order to become a registered occupational therapist, you must: Graduate from an accredited educational program with a master's degree in occupational therapy, complete fieldwork requirements, pass your certification exam, and apply for licensure.
Do you need a license to practice as an occupational therapist in the United States? ›All 50 states in the United States plus the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and Guam require occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants to be licensed to provide occupational therapy services.
How much does it cost to get a medical license in Louisiana? ›Licensure- $382.00 (MD/DO).
How long does Louisiana medical license take? ›The application process is a deliberate process, which generally takes approximately 90 days from the time the LSBME receives the completed application.
What license do you need for non medical home care in Louisiana? ›A home care business in Louisiana doesn't require any formal medical training to get a home care license. The only personal requirement to open a home care business in Louisiana is self-motivation!