What a hardship license does and who can request one
A hardship license in Indiana is a restricted driving permit that lets you drive for specific purposes when your regular license has been suspended. It does not restore your full driving privileges — it only covers trips you can prove are essential, like getting to work, medical appointments, or court-ordered programs.
You can request a hardship license if your suspension is for reasons like unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or a suspended license due to points. You cannot get one if your suspension is for a DUI or drug-related conviction, or if you are under age 16. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) decides whether to grant your request based on the reason for your suspension and the hardship you describe.
Key Takeaways
- A hardship license lets you drive only for essential purposes like work, school, medical care, or court-ordered treatment — not for personal errands or social trips.
- You submit your request to the BMV in writing, either by mail or in person at a local BMV branch, along with proof of your hardship and a statement explaining why you need to drive.
- The BMV typically responds within two to four weeks, though the timeline can vary depending on how busy your local branch is.
- If your request is denied, you can ask for a hearing before a BMV hearing officer to present your case in person.
- A hardship license comes with restrictions — you may only drive during certain hours, to certain locations, or for certain purposes, depending on what the BMV approves.
Documents you need to gather before requesting
Before you contact the BMV, collect proof of the hardship you are claiming. If your hardship is employment-related, bring a letter from your employer on company letterhead stating your job title, work schedule, and that you need to drive to work. The letter should be dated and signed by a manager or supervisor.
If your hardship involves medical care, bring a letter from your doctor or healthcare provider describing your condition and the frequency of appointments you need to attend. If you are enrolled in a court-ordered program like substance abuse treatment or community service, bring documentation from the program showing your enrollment and schedule.
You will also need your current identification (even though your license is suspended, a state ID card or passport works), proof of residence such as a utility bill or lease, and the notice of suspension from the BMV. If you have already paid any outstanding fines or fees related to your suspension, bring proof of payment.
How to submit your request to the BMV
You have two options: submit your request by mail or visit a BMV branch in person. To submit by mail, write a letter to the BMV explaining your hardship in clear, specific terms. Do not be vague — instead of "I need to drive for work," write "I work as a nurse at Community Hospital on the night shift from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., Monday through Friday, and public transportation does not run those hours in my area."
Address your letter to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Suspension and Denial Section, 100 North Senate Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46204. Include your name, current address, phone number, and driver's license number. Attach copies (not originals) of all supporting documents. Mail everything together in one envelope.
If you prefer to submit in person, visit your local BMV branch with the same letter and documents. The staff can tell you when ready whether your request is complete or if you are missing anything. You can find your nearest branch and its hours on the BMV website or by calling 317-232-2050.
What happens after you submit your request
The BMV reviews your request and decides whether to grant, deny, or grant with restrictions. You will receive a written decision by mail, usually within two to four weeks. If approved, your letter will describe exactly what you are permitted to do — for example, "driving to and from work at Community Hospital, Monday through Friday, between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m." or "driving to medical appointments at St. Vincent Hospital and to the pharmacy."
Your hardship license is not a physical card you carry. Instead, you carry the BMV's approval letter along with your regular identification. If you are stopped by police, show them the letter and your ID. Some officers may not be familiar with hardship licenses, so having the letter in writing protects you.
The hardship license is temporary. It typically lasts until your suspension is lifted or until a date specified in the approval letter. If your circumstances change — for example, you lose your job or finish your treatment program — contact the BMV to update your request, as continuing to drive beyond your approved purposes can result in additional penalties.
If your request is denied
If the BMV denies your request, the denial letter will explain the reason. Common reasons include insufficient proof of hardship, a suspension type that does not may have access to for a hardship license, or incomplete documentation. Read the letter carefully to understand why.
You have the right to request a hearing before a BMV hearing officer. To do this, send a written request to the same address where you submitted your original request, within 10 days of receiving the denial. In the hearing, you can present your case in person, bring witnesses (such as your employer or doctor), and submit additional documents that support your hardship claim.
Hearings are informal and do not require a lawyer, though you can bring one if you choose. The hearing officer will listen to your explanation and may ask questions. You will receive a written decision after the hearing, usually within two weeks.
Restrictions and rules for driving on a hardship license
A hardship license comes with strict limits. You can only drive for the specific purposes listed in your approval letter. Driving for any other reason — even a short detour to pick up groceries or visit a friend — violates the terms and can result in additional charges.
You must carry your approval letter with you every time you drive. If you are stopped and cannot produce it, you may be cited for driving with a suspended license. Keep the letter in your vehicle or wallet at all times.
Some hardship licenses include time restrictions, meaning you can only drive during certain hours. Others may restrict you to specific routes or locations. Follow these restrictions exactly. Violating the terms of your hardship license can lead to criminal charges, additional fines, and a longer suspension.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a hardship license if I have a DUI suspension?
No. Indiana law does not allow hardship licenses for suspensions related to DUI, OWI (operating while intoxicated), or drug-related driving offenses. You must wait out the full suspension period. If you have questions about your specific suspension, contact the BMV directly at 317-232-2050.
How long does a hardship license last?
The length varies depending on your situation and the reason for your suspension. Some hardship licenses last until your suspension is lifted; others are granted for a specific period, like six months. Your approval letter will state the end date. You can request renewal before it expires if your hardship continues.
What if I get pulled over while driving on my hardship license?
Show the officer your approval letter and your identification. The letter proves you have permission to drive for that specific purpose. If the officer questions whether your trip falls within your approved purposes, be honest about where you are going. Lying to an officer can result in additional charges.
Can I drive to places other than work if I have a work-related hardship license?
Only if those places are listed in your approval letter. For example, if your letter says you can drive to work and to medical appointments, you can do both. But you cannot add a stop at the grocery store or a friend's house without BMV permission. If your needs change, contact the BMV to request an updated hardship license.
Do I need a lawyer to request a hardship license?
No. The process is designed for people to handle on their own. However, if your request is denied and you want to appeal at a hearing, having a lawyer can help you present your case, especially if your situation is complicated. Many legal aid organizations in Indiana offer free or low-cost help for people with suspended licenses.