If your Washington State driver’s license has been suspended or revoked, you may not have to stop driving entirely. Washington offers two entirely separate types of restricted licenses that allow you to legally stay on the road during an active suspension. Which one you apply for depends entirely on the reason your license was taken away.
This guide covers both options—the Occupational/Restricted Driver License (ORL) for non-DUI suspensions, and the Ignition Interlock Driver License (IIL) for DUI suspensions—including eligibility rules, strict restrictions, and how to apply.
Washington’s Two Types of Restricted Licenses
| License Type | Who It’s For | Key Requirement | Where You Can Drive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Occupational/Restricted (ORL) | Non-DUI suspensions (e.g., unpaid tickets, child support) | SR-22 Insurance | Strictly limited to work, school, and medical routes. |
| Ignition Interlock (IIL) | DUI, physical control, reckless driving, or drug/alcohol offenses | IID Installed & SR-22 | Anywhere, anytime. No destination limits. |
(Note: Neither of these restricted licenses can be used to drive a Commercial Motor Vehicle).
What Is an Ignition Interlock Driver License (IIL)?
For DUI & Alcohol/Drug Suspensions
If your license was suspended due to an arrest or conviction for a DUI, Physical Control, Reckless Driving, or Vehicular Assault/Homicide involving drugs or alcohol, you must apply for the IIL.
What It Allows: The IIL is incredibly flexible. Unlike the ORL, the IIL has no destination, geographic, or time restrictions. You can drive 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for any reason (including grocery shopping and recreation), provided you follow one strict rule: you must have a functioning Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed in your vehicle.
Who Does Not Qualify: You cannot get an IIL if your current suspension includes a Minor in Possession (MIP) or if you are classified as a Habitual Traffic Offender (Suspended 1st Degree). You must also hold an unexpired Washington driver’s license (or a valid out-of-state license).
The Employer Vehicle Exemption (Company Cars)
If you drive a work vehicle that is owned, leased, or rented by your employer, you do not have to install an IID in their vehicle. However, you must have your boss sign an Employer Declaration for Ignition Interlock Exemption. You must submit this to the DOL before you drive the work vehicle, and you must carry a copy in the glovebox at all times.
(Note: This exemption does not apply if you use the work car to commute back and forth to your home).
Financial Assistance
IIDs can be expensive. If you are low-income, Washington offers an Ignition Interlock Device Financial Assistance Application. If approved, the state will reimburse your IID provider $80 per month to help cover the costs of installation, monthly leasing, and removal.
What Is an Occupational/Restricted Driver License (ORL)?
For Non-DUI Suspensions
If your license was suspended for reasons other than drugs or alcohol—such as failing to pay child support, unpaid tickets, or accumulating too many moving violations—you apply for the ORL.
What It Allows (And Restricts): The ORL is highly restrictive. You are legally prohibited from driving more than 12 hours in a 24-hour period. You may only drive during the specific times, days, and routes approved by the DOL for the following essential purposes:
- Work (including self-employment, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training).
- School (if pursuing a diploma, degree, or certification).
- Court-ordered community service or substance abuse treatment.
- Continuing your own healthcare or providing care for a dependent.
Who Does Not Qualify: You are strictly ineligible for an ORL if your suspension is for a DUI, or if you have been convicted of vehicular assault or vehicular homicide within the past 7 years. You will also be denied if you fail a medical/vision exam or have not completed required chemical dependency treatment.
How to Apply for a Washington Restricted Driver’s License
Both the ORL and IIL use the same application form, but the timing of your paperwork is critical. Do not apply until your requirements are met, or you will lose your application fee.
Step 1: Install the IID (For IIL Applicants Only) Contact a Washington State Patrol-approved IID manufacturer to install the breathalyzer in your vehicle. The installer will automatically submit proof of installation to the DOL.
Step 2: Obtain SR-22 Insurance Both the ORL and IIL require you to carry high-risk liability insurance. Contact your auto insurance agent and have them file an SR-22 Certificate of Financial Responsibility with the DOL.
Step 3: Submit the Application and Fee Once your IID and SR-22 are in place, log into your DOL License eXpressaccount online (or fill out the paper Restricted Driver License Application). You must pay a non-refundable $100 application fee.
The 30-Day Warning: The DOL will hold your application for exactly 30 days. If they do not receive your SR-22 and IID proof within those 30 days, your application will be denied, you will forfeit the $100 fee, and you will have to start over. This is why you must set up your insurance and interlock before applying.
Step 4: Receive Your License The DOL typically processes applications quickly. If approved, your restricted license will be effective on the day your suspension begins. You will receive a temporary paper copy, and the permanent card will arrive in the mail.
When Can Your Washington Restricted License Be Cancelled?
Having a restricted license is a privilege. Your restricted license will be immediately canceled if:
- You are caught driving outside of your approved ORL hours or routes.
- You attempt to drive a personal vehicle without an IID (for IIL holders).
- You let your SR-22 insurance lapse or cancel it.
- You get a new traffic conviction that suspends your driving privileges.
If your restricted license is canceled, you will be forced to serve the remainder of your suspension without any driving privileges, and you may face additional criminal charges for Driving While Suspended.
Add Comment