What a hardship license does in Missouri
A hardship license in Missouri is a restricted driving permit that lets you drive to specific places — usually work, school, medical appointments, or court-ordered programs — when your regular license has been suspended. It does not restore your full driving privileges. You can only drive the routes and for the purposes the Missouri Department of Revenue approves, and you must carry the hardship license and proof of its restrictions with you every time you drive.
The state issues hardship licenses for several types of suspension, including those tied to unpaid traffic tickets, DWI convictions, accumulating too many points, or failure to pay child support. The license is not automatic — you have to request one, show that you have a genuine need, and meet specific conditions set by the state.
Key Takeaways
- A hardship license lets you drive only to pre-approved destinations like work, school, or medical care, not for personal errands or socializing.
- You must file a petition with the Missouri Department of Revenue, usually in person at a local office, and show proof of your need and the routes you will drive.
- The type of suspension you have determines what documents you need and whether you must attend a hearing or meet other conditions first.
- Approval typically takes one to three weeks, but you cannot drive under a hardship license until the Department of Revenue issues it to you in writing.
- Driving outside your approved routes or for unapproved purposes can result in additional charges and a longer suspension.
Types of suspensions that may may have access to for a hardship license
Missouri suspends licenses for different reasons, and not all suspensions allow a hardship license. The most common ones that do include suspensions for accumulating 12 or more points on your driving record within three years, failure to pay traffic fines or appear in court, DWI convictions (after a waiting period), and failure to pay child support or court-ordered fines.
Suspensions for reckless driving, driving with a suspended license, or certain criminal convictions may have stricter rules or longer waiting periods before you can request a hardship license. If you are unsure whether your suspension qualifies, contact the Missouri Department of Revenue's Driver License Bureau at 573-526-2407 or visit a local office to ask.
Documents you will need to bring
The exact documents depend on why your license was suspended, but most people need to bring a government-issued photo ID, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days), and proof of insurance. You will also need to show proof of the hardship itself — for example, a letter from your employer on company letterhead stating your job title and work schedule, or a school enrollment letter if you are a student.
If your suspension is tied to unpaid fines or child support, bring proof that you have paid what you owe or have a payment plan in place. For DWI-related suspensions, you may need to show completion of a substance abuse assessment or proof of enrollment in a required program. Bring the original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone usually will not be accepted.
How to request a hardship license
You must file your request in person at a Missouri Department of Revenue office. You cannot request a hardship license by mail or online. Find your local office at dor.mo.gov or call 573-526-2407 to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment.
When you go to the office, bring all required documents and be prepared to explain your hardship — why you need to drive and what routes you will use. The staff member will help you fill out the petition form and may ask questions about your job, school, or medical needs. If your case involves a DWI or criminal charge, you may be required to attend a hearing before the Department of Revenue decides whether to grant the license.
After you file, the Department of Revenue will review your petition. If approved, you will receive your hardship license in the mail or be told to pick it up at the office. Do not drive under a hardship license until you have it in hand — driving with a suspended license, even if you have filed a petition, is still illegal.
Restrictions and rules you must follow
Your hardship license will list specific times and routes you are allowed to drive. For example, it might say you can drive from your home to your workplace between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays, or to a medical facility on Tuesdays and Thursdays. You cannot deviate from these routes or times without written permission from the Department of Revenue.
You must carry your hardship license and proof of insurance at all times while driving. If you are stopped by police, show both documents when ready. Driving outside your approved routes, driving at times not listed on your license, or driving for purposes other than those approved can result in additional criminal charges, a longer suspension, or both.
If your circumstances change — for example, you change jobs or no longer need to attend medical appointments — contact the Department of Revenue to update your hardship license. Continuing to drive under outdated restrictions can also lead to legal trouble.
How long a hardship license lasts
The length of time you can hold a hardship license depends on the reason for your original suspension. For point-based suspensions, a hardship license typically lasts until your suspension ends. For DWI suspensions, it may last for a set period — often 30 days to several months — depending on whether it is your first offense and the circumstances of your case.
When your hardship license expires, your driving privileges do not automatically return. You must wait until your suspension period is over, then explore for license reinstatement through the Department of Revenue. If you are unsure when your suspension ends, ask the staff at your local office or check your suspension notice.
What happens if you violate the terms of your hardship license
Driving outside your approved routes, driving at unapproved times, or driving for unapproved purposes is a violation of your hardship license. Missouri treats this as driving with a suspended license, which is a misdemeanor offense. You can be arrested, fined, and face additional jail time.
A violation can also extend your suspension period and make it harder to get another hardship license in the future. If you are pulled over and the officer finds that you have driven outside your approved area, be honest about it and contact a lawyer when ready. Do not attempt to argue your way out of the stop or claim you did not know the restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a hardship license if I have a DWI suspension?
Yes, but there is usually a waiting period. For a first DWI offense, you may be able to request a hardship license after 30 days of suspension. For repeat offenses, the waiting period is longer. You will need to show proof of completing a substance abuse assessment and may need to attend a hearing.
What if I lose my hardship license or it gets damaged?
Go to your local Department of Revenue office and request a replacement. Bring your ID and proof of residency. There is usually a small fee, and the replacement is issued the same day or within a few days.
Can I drive to places not listed on my hardship license in an emergency?
No. Even in an emergency, driving outside your approved routes violates the terms of your hardship license and can result in criminal charges. If you face a genuine emergency, call 911 or another emergency service rather than driving yourself.
Do I need to pay a fee to get a hardship license?
Yes. Missouri charges a fee for hardship licenses, though the amount varies. Ask at your local Department of Revenue office what the current fee is. You typically pay when you file your petition.
What if my hardship license request is denied?
If denied, the Department of Revenue will tell you why. Common reasons include not showing sufficient hardship, not having proof of insurance, or not meeting the waiting period for your type of suspension. You can request reconsideration or reapply after your circumstances change.