Most DUI 3rd offenders in Massachusetts end up at the Board of Appeal for work license consideration instead of the Mass. Registry of Motor Vehicles. This is because the RMV’s suspension department requires proof of completion of a ninety (90) day in-patient (residential) DUI treatment program, which is approved by the Department of Public Health. If you have not completed this specific alcohol program, the Registry will not grant you any type of work or hardship license. However, the Registry is not the only game in town.
The Division of Insurance Board of Appeal has the legal authority to grant you a hardship license even if you do not meet the Registry’s strict requirements. I have personally obtained hardship licenses from the Board of Appeal for third offenders who have only completed a first offender program such as the 24D Driver Alcohol Education Program. In these cases, where the applicant does not have the proper program, it is imperative to provide sufficient documentation to satisfy the Appeals Board that the driver does not represent a danger to public safety and that his or her alcoholism has been brought under control.
There are likely countless drivers suffering needlessly, with 8 year license revocations, when they could be driving lawfully. It’s not easy to get a hardship license with 3 drunk driving convictions. However, it is certainly not impossible. You must go for an alcohol evaluation, which my office can arrange, and you will be required to use the ignition interlock during your revocation period and for at least 24 months after the removal of the “H” (hours) restriction from your driver’s license. Use of the IID is mandatory if you are a Massachusetts resident and there are no exceptions.
Having proper documentation and effective legal representation can be essential when seeking a Cinderella license. If you have an 8 year OUI 3rd offense license loss, I invite you to contact me for a free review of your situation and assessment of your chances of success at the Board of Appeal.