What is a Hardship Permit?
A hardship permit allows you limited driving privileges if your license is suspended after a DUI conviction or during an administrative suspension. The permit can give you limited driving privileges for such things as:
- Going to and from work;
- Driving on the job;
- Seeking employment;
- Taking part in an alcohol or drug rehabilitation program; or
- Getting medical treatment required on a regular basis.
When Can I Apply for a Hardship Permit?
There are waiting periods before you can apply for hardship permit in some situations. For administrative suspensions, these time periods can range anywhere from 30 days to three years (see below chart). Post-conviction you may be able to apply right away, without having to wait. It’s always best to discuss this with your attorney so you know what options are applicable to your unique situation. It is important to note that suspension and hardship permit rules are different for those who hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
| Type of Suspension | Length of Suspension | Hardship Wait |
| Breath Test Failure | 90 Days | 30 Days |
| Breath Test Failure (increased)* | 1 Year | 1 Year |
| Breath, Blood, Urine Test Refusal | 1 Year | 90 Days |
| Breath, Blood, Urine Test Refusal (increased)* | 3 Years | 3 Years |
| *Suspension lengths are increased if within the five years prior to the current arrest the following happened in Oregon or another state: DUII conviction, suspension of driving privileges under the Implied Consent Law, participation in a diversion or similar alcohol or drug program | ||
How Do I Apply for a Hardship Permit?
You will need to complete the application, found here, complete with all of the necessary requirements. These requirements include proof of an SR-22 certificate and applicable fees among other things. To check the status of your application, and for other questions, you can contact the DMV suspension unit at 503-945-5000.
The DMV can take up to 2-6 weeks, on average, to process the Hardship Permit Application. It is a good idea to submit your application and supporting documents as early as possible. Early submission does not mean that the DMV will process your application early. This just ensures that the DMV has possession of your application and can begin processing it right away, once you are eligible.
Are You Getting Ahead of Yourself?
If you’ve recently been arrested for a DUI in Oregon, it’s understandable that you’d want to educate yourself on all the important factors surrounding the process. However, you’ll find that your stress level (not to mention your legal results) will improve dramatically if you take advantage of a complimentary consultation from one of our team of Oregon DUI experts. We’re solid, we’re here if you need us, and we are very good at what we do.
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