Florida Hardship License
In any state in the nation, you can have your drivers license suspended for driving poorly. Whether from accumulating too many tickets or points, or just getting caught driving dangerously, your Florida license can be suspended for any length of time. But if you live in Florida, you have options. Rather than relying on friends or taking the bus, you can complete an Advanced Driver Improvement course, which is a required step toward reinstatement. Florida also allows you to apply for a Florida Hardship License, which, if approved by a hearing officer, permits limited driving during your suspension.
There are two different kinds of Florida hardship license applications. The first is a license for business purposes, which lets you drive to and from work, as well as any driving that’s necessary in the performance of your job, or for educational or medical purposes (going to school or doctor’s appointments, for example). The second is for employment purposes, which limits you to strictly work-related driving.
What Are the Suspensions Eligible for Hardship License?
It’s important to know that not all drivers license suspensions are eligible for a hardship license in Florida. Points-related suspensions are usually okay, but a suspension resulting from a DUI is not eligible for a hardship license Florida application. Eligibility is determined by the state, not by your course provider.
How Can I Enroll in a Florida ADI Course?
You may only take the Florida ADI course with a provider that has been authorized by the state of Florida. There are two kinds of classes you are allowed to take: In-Class, or Online. In-Class courses take place over the course of 12 hours, in a classroom. The Florida ADI course online can be taken at home, at work, or anywhere you can get an Internet connection. The biggest benefit of the online version is that you can choose your own pace, doing the lessons one by one, or all at once.
How Can I Get My Florida Hardship License?
If you’re wondering how to get your hardship license in Florida, there are certain steps you have to take. Note that completing these steps does not guarantee a hardship license; the decision rests with a state hearing officer.
- First you must sign up for the 12-hour Florida ADI course. Once you enroll, you’ll receive an enrollment certificate.
- Next, you must contact your county clerk to get a copy of your 30-day driving record.
- Bring both of these items to your local driver’s license office.
- The hearing officer that is assigned to your case will determine if you’re eligible for the Florida hardship license.
What Are the Benefits of the ADI Course?
Completing the ADI course is a required step in the hardship license process. Most Floridians have come to rely on their cars in their everyday lives, from going to work, to grocery shopping, to all kinds of errands and appointments, so working through the requirements promptly is worth doing.
But taking the Florida ADI course online, or any sort of driver improvement course, has other benefits as well. Simply: It makes you a better driver. If you have a suspended license in the first place, chances are you are in need of a class that teaches you how to drive better. And if you pay attention in class, you’ll emerge much less likely to have your license suspended the second time around.
