So, you have managed to successfully apply for a hardship license – congratulations! While this is not the same as having a full driver’s license, it is certainly better than nothing. You should be able to keep up with your work schedule thanks to the freedoms provided by a Massachusetts hardship license, and you may even be able to handle a number of other chores as well. Considering how restrictive it can be to live without a driver’s license entirely, possessing even a hardship license is a big step in the right direction.
It is important that you do everything you can to remain in possession of a valid hardship license. Unfortunately, some of the people who are awarded hardship licenses will wind up losing them as a result of poor decision making. Don’t let yourself wind up in that category. As long as you are willing to take the time to understand the rules associated with your license, you should be able to stay on the right path.
Following the Rules of a Hardship License
Without a doubt, the fastest way to have your Massachusetts hardship license rescinded is to violate the terms and conditions that have been attached to that license. It seems like an obvious thing, but not everyone who is granted one of these licenses uses it in a responsible way. When you are given the license, you will be instructed as to what kinds of rules you need to follow in order to keep your license in good standing. Treat these rules with the utmost respect. You have been given an opportunity in the form of this license, and you don’t want to waste the opportunity by doing something silly.
So, what are some of the conditions that you will need to follow when driving on a hardship license? The exact conditions will vary from individual to individual.
Common Rules of a Massachusetts Hardship License
Time of Day
You will be told exactly what hours of the day your license is valid. You should only be driving within this permitted window. Massachusetts Hardship Licenses are valid for 12 hours, 7 days a week. If you are caught driving outside of those hours, you can be arrested and criminally charged. Also, being caught driving outside of your allowed hours may result in the loss of your hardship license and new suspensions being imposed.
Location
There are no restrictions in Massachusetts regarding where you can drive while on a hardship license. Some states restrict driving for school, work, medical, and similar reasons. However, the Registry in Massachusetts does not limit where you can go with a hardship license.
Plan Your Life Wisely
One of the best ways to avoid breaking the rules attached to your Massachusetts hardship license is to plan your life wisely. You know the restrictions that you have in place, so think about your schedule in advance and make sure you can comply with the terms of your license while still getting everything done. If you need to ask a friend for a ride to something that you won’t be allowed to drive to, because of your restricted hours, you can take care of that in advance with a little bit of careful planning.
It may take a little while to get used to this type of lifestyle, but it is important to your success. If you simply wait until the last moment to think about transportation for certain events, you may be stuck and decide to go against the rules of your license. That is never a good situation to find yourself in.
Is it as easy to keep up with your life when you are driving on a hardship license as when you have a regular license? Of course not, but it can be done. You’ll need to think ahead, and you’ll need to understand the terms and conditions of your license. Rather than being frustrated by the restrictions, you should feel fortunate for the opportunity to drive on at least a part-time basis. Acquiring a Massachusetts hardship license is a positive step in your life, so do everything you can to keep that license valid moving forward.