Law enforcement officials take driving while intoxicated very seriously. You should, too—an estimated 11,773 people died in alcohol-related crashes in 2008 alone. However, sometimes people drive after drinking without realizing how high their blood alcohol content (BAC) is, which can result in a citation and even time in jail.

In Washington, a drunk driving charge can also result in suspension of your driver's license. The length of this suspension can range from 90 days to four years, based on your BAC as well as your previous DWI offenses. Additionally, license suspension does not typically occur immediately after you are pulled over. The time it takes for your suspension to take effect also depends on the level of your charge.

Demonstrating Need for an Occupational License

While a suspended license may encourage you to check your BAC before you head out on the road, it can also interfere with your daily activities, including work. Thus, you may be allowed to apply for an occupational driver's license if you can prove that you need it.

An occupational/restricted license, or ORL, restricts the time, days of the week, area, and even vehicle that you can drive. It is meant to allow you to carry on tasks that are necessary for your survival. When you are applying for an ORL, you may need to turn in the following:

• Application for an ORL
• Application fee
• Proof of financial responsibility – SR-22, a surety bond, or certificate of deposit
• Proof that you have paid (or are paying for) your citation

Contact Us

If you need help getting your life back on track by applying for an ORL, you should turn to a trusted Washington DUI attorney to help you achieve your goals. For more information, contact the Seattle DUI defense lawyers of the Cowan Kirk Gaston Law Firm today at 1-866-822-1230.