Unfortunately, some alcohol-related DUI charges might make you ineligible to receive a “bread and butter” license, also known as an occupational limited license (OLL) in PA. However, other charges, including some offenses involving a controlled substance, minor offenders, and those who fall into a few other specific categories, might be eligible.
An OLL may be your best option for getting back on track after being charged with a DUI-related offense. Keep reading to learn which offenses are eligible and how to apply for an OLL.
What is a “bread and butter” license?
An occupational limited license is a restricted license issued to a driver whose driving privileges have been suspended due to being charged with certain offenses.
In the past, OLLs were available to first- and second-time DUI offenders; however, the State updated its policy and no longer issues these limited licenses to persons with multiple DUI charges, some first-offense DUI charges, and those who refuse to submit to chemical testing.
Below we go into more detail regarding eligibility and the application process.
Eligibility for an OLL
You might be eligible for an occupational limited license in PA if you were charged with any of the following:
- Underage DUI
- Any offense involving controlled substances
- Operating a vehicle after your registration was suspended
- Driving while your license is suspended
Keep in mind the unique circumstances of your case will determine eligibility. It’s always recommended that you consult an experienced Pennsylvania DUI attorney before starting the application process for an OLL. Doing so could save you time, money, and frustration.
Limitations and restrictions
You may be ineligible to apply for an OLL if you’ve been charged with any of the following offenses; however, you may become eligible after the suspension term has expired or after the citation is satisfied or released.
- Failing to respond to a citation
- Failing to undergo a special
- Failing to attend a departmental hearing
- Driving while license is suspended due to DUI
- Refusing to submit to chemical testing
- Failing to maintain financial responsibility
- Passing a school bus
- Racing on highways
- Homicide by vehicle
- Fleeing a police officer
- Driving without lights
- Aggravated assault while driving under the influence
- Reckless driving
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- First offense DUI
- Second offense DUI
Additional disqualifications for OLL can be found on the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s OLL FAQ. Determining your eligibility for a PA bread and butter license can be difficult, but the experienced attorneys at The Law Offices of Steven E. Kellis can help you.
Steps to take before applying for an Occupational Limited License in Pennsylvania
Applying for a “bread and butter” license in PA is the last step in restoring your driving privileges. You’re only eligible to obtain the bread n’ butter license once you’ve completed all the other restoration requirements, including:
- Receiving a restoration letter from the state
- Paying all outstanding restoration fees
- Paying your citation
- Satisfy any ACT 151/122 requirements
- Complete a stipulated portion of your license suspension time
You may also need to provide proof of financial responsibility (the additional insurance policy) and that you’ve installed an ignition interlock device on your car.
Required documentation for applying for an Occupational Limited License in Pennsylvania
In addition to the Occupational Limited License Petition (form DL-15), which you submit to the PA DMV, you also need to send in the following documents:
- Check or money order for the required fees
- Copies of your proof of insurance, including any SR122 policies
How to apply for an OLL
If your license suspension is in effect and you want to apply for an OLL, make sure you do the following:
- Surrender your driver’s license
- (If the license is expired) Submit an application for renewal and pay the fee
- Complete the occupational limited license petition (form DL-15)
- Send the form, a check or money order, and a copy of your proof of insurance to the PA Department of Transportation (Bureau of Driver Licensing, OLL/PL Unit, P.O. Box 68689, Harrisburg, PA 17106).
The fee for applying for an OLL will be listed on the petition (application). Note that this fee is non-refundable.
Within 20 days of receiving your petition, the Department of Transportation will notify you in writing whether or not you qualify for an OLL. It’s important that you stay close to the address you listed on the application for at least 3 weeks after submission.
If you do qualify for a PA “bread and butter” license, you’ll receive a camera card to obtain a photo license. You must carry your photo OLL and DL-15A form at all times.
Benefits of an OLL
OLLs have helped thousands of Pennsylvanians keep their jobs, stay in school, and receive necessary medical treatment, even after they made a mistake and violated traffic laws.
Although a PA “bread and butter” license doesn’t permit you full driving privileges, it is worth the time and money to obtain, for several reasons:
- If your job involves driving, like commercial deliveries or sales, then you keep your job
- You don’t have to make other transportation arrangements
- You can attend any required probation meetings or substance abuse meetings more easily
- You can still go to work and school
- You have your own transportation should an emergency arise
Charged with DUI? Call us to discover your legal options.
If you were charged with any of the offenses listed above, it’s important to consult with an experienced Pennsylvania DUI lawyer to learn your options and exercise your legal rights. Call The Law Offices of Steven E. Kellis today at (215) 977-4183 for more information.