Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious crime in Illinois, and getting charged can have severe consequences. You may wonder if you’re convicted of DUI, can you still drive to work? The answer isn’t simple, but in some cases, you may still be able to drive with special permission, especially if driving is necessary for your job.
In this article, we’ll explain things in simple terms so you know what to expect after a DUI in Illinois— and how you might still be able to drive for work.
What Happens to Your License After a DUI?
In Illinois, a DUI charge can lead to license suspension and potentially revocation, depending on your case.
A DUI charge means you have been accused of driving under the influence, but you have not yet been found guilty in court. Upon being charged, you will face a statutory summary suspension of your driver’s license. This suspension is automatic if you either refuse or fail chemical testing (BAC of 0.08% or higher).
For a first offense, you’ll receive a 6-month license suspension if you fail the test. You’ll face a 1-year suspension if you refuse the test, even if the criminal charge is later dismissed.
Being convicted of DUI always results in a license revocation. Criminal penalties for a first conviction can include:
- Minimum 1-year loss of full driving privileges
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Fines up to $2,500
- Court fees and other charges
- Requirement to attend drug/alcohol rehabilitation programs
- Enhanced penalties if certain aggravating factors are present (e.g., BAC of 0.16% or higher or transporting a child under 16 at the time of the arrest)
A conviction also brings collateral consequences, such as higher insurance premiums, potential employment issues, and possible impact on professional licenses. Typically, you won’t be able to drive until:
- Your revocation period ends
- You’ve satisfied all court and Secretary of State requirements
In some cases, Illinois does allow certain exceptions that let you drive with restrictions before your suspension or revocation period is complete.
How Can You Drive for Work After a DUI?
You may be able to drive for work with a DUI, but only under certain conditions. In Illinois, you have two main options for driving relief:
1. Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP)
If your license is suspended because of a first DUI offense, you may be eligible for an MDDP. This permit allows you to drive anywhere, including to and from work, during your statutory summary suspension. Having a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) installed in your vehicle is a condition of the MDDP.
Things to know about MDDP:
- It’s for first-time DUI offenders
- You must be at least 18 years old
- You must have had a valid driver’s license before the DUI
- You will be ineligible for an MDDP if your DUI arrest was connected to an accident causing serious injury or death
2. Restricted Driving Permit (RDP)
If your license is revoked after a DUI conviction, you may still be able to drive for work with an Illinois Restricted Driving Permit, or hardship license.
An RDP allows you to drive only for specific reasons, such as:
- Driving to and from work
- Medical appointments
- Drug/alcohol treatment programs
- School
- Family responsibilities
- Court-ordered programs
An RDP allows you to drive during certain times of the day and along specific routes. A BAIID device is required in most cases, as well. People under 16 are not eligible for an RDP. To get a hardship license, you must apply through the Illinois Secretary of State and go through a hearing process.
Can You Drive for Work With a Prior DUI?
Many people ask, “Can you drive for work with a prior DUI?” This is especially important if you’re a delivery driver, truck driver, or work in construction or field services.
If your job requires driving:
- You may need employer support during the hearing process for an RDP.
- You’ll likely need to provide proof of your work schedule and duties.
- You may be allowed to drive a company vehicle if it has a BAIID, or you may be restricted to personal vehicles only.
What About Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs)?
If you have a CDL (commercial driver’s license), the rules are stricter:
- A DUI can disqualify your CDL, even if it was a first offense.
- Even if you receive an RDP, you can’t use it to drive a commercial vehicle.
- You may lose your CDL permanently after multiple DUI offenses.
While you may be able to drive your personal vehicle for work, you will not be allowed to drive a commercial vehicle after a DUI conviction. You cannot use an MDDP to drive a commercial vehicle, either.
What Should You Do Next?
Are you asking questions like, “If you get a DUI, can you still drive to work?” or “Can you drive for work with a prior DUI?”
If the answer is yes, then it’s time to speak with a law firm that knows how to help.
Get Help From Johnson & Goldrich, P.C.
At Johnson & Goldrich, P.C., we focus only on driver’s license reinstatement in Illinois. That means we know the Secretary of State’s hearing process inside and out. We’ve helped many clients restore their driving privileges— even after multiple DUI offenses.
Whether you’re applying for a Restricted Driving Permit, preparing for a formal hearing, or trying to get your license fully reinstated, our team is ready to guide you. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation!
Conclusion: Driving for Work After a DUI Is Possible—But Not Guaranteed
- If you get a DUI charge, you can’t drive right away, even if you do qualify for driving relief.
- You may qualify for an MDDP for daily driving or an RDP to drive to work, school, medical appointments, and for other specific uses.
- Commercial drivers face tougher penalties for DUI offenses.
- You’ll likely need to go through a Secretary of State hearing and meet several requirements before you can get driving relief.
Contact Johnson & Goldrich, P.C., today to discover how we can help you get back on the road legally and safely!