Q: Can you get a hardship license on a first offense DUI if you had a high BAC?
A:
Typically, yes. It's called an OLL -- occupational limited license -- and allows you to drive only to and from work and school, and you need your employer and/or school to sign a PennDOT form. Some folks don't like to let their jobs know about a DUI, however, so it's not a great option for some. You'll also have to wait 60 days before you can get one as well, so you'll still be suspended for two months first.
If you haven't gotten a prior DUI in the past 10 years anywhere, then you may also qualify for ARD (accelerated rehabilitative disposition). That cuts your license suspension down to zero, 30 or 60 days -- and that's a huge plus. In addition, if you complete everything during your probation and pay all fines, you can have the DUI expunged from your record. Some counties do it automatically for you; in others, you have to file a petition for expungement yourself.
The Pennsylvania DUI laws have also recently changed, and now allow for an ignition interlock license right away -- which allows you to drive if you have a breathalyzer hooked up to your steering column of your car. You'll have to blow into it to start the car, and periodically as you drive to keep the car running. You'll need to rent the appropriate equipment to hook up to your car, and that can get expensive. Still, most are happy to pay it so long as they can drive, so you'll want to look into that as well.
If you'd like to chat further about your particular situation, I do practice law in Berks County. Feel free to contact me offsite at my contact information listed in my Justia profile. Best of luck to you.
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