Occupational Driver's License — Fort Worth & Tarrant County, TX

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Charged with a DWI in Fort Worth?

Attorney Chelsi McLarty is an experienced DWI defense lawyer in Tarrant County.

(817) 900-3235

License Suspended in Texas? You May Still Be Able to Drive.

Losing your driver’s license can turn your daily life upside down — affecting your ability to get to work, take your kids to school, or handle the basic responsibilities of living. If your license has been suspended due to a DWI arrest, a drug conviction, or unpaid traffic tickets, you may be eligible for an Occupational Driver’s License (ODL) — a court-ordered restricted license that allows you to continue driving for essential purposes while your case or suspension is being resolved. Attorney Chelsi McLarty helps clients in Fort Worth and throughout Tarrant County obtain occupational licenses quickly and efficiently.

What Is An Occupational Driver's License?

An Occupational Driver’s License is a special restricted license issued by a Texas court that allows a person with a suspended license to drive for specific essential needs, including:

An ODL is not a full license — it comes with restrictions on hours and purposes of driving — but it can make an enormous difference in maintaining your employment and daily life during a suspension period.

When Can A License Be Suspended In Texas?

Your driver’s license can be suspended in Texas for a variety of reasons, including:

DWI Arrest — Under Texas's Administrative License Revocation (ALR) law, your license can be automatically suspended following a DWI arrest if you failed or refused a breath or blood test
DWI Conviction — A DWI conviction carries mandatory license suspension
Drug Conviction — A drug possession conviction results in a six-month suspension (or one year for those under 21)
Unpaid Traffic Tickets or Surcharges — Accumulated unpaid fines can trigger an administrative suspension
Too Many Points on Your Driving Record

How To Get An Occupational License In Texas

To obtain an ODL, you must file a petition with the appropriate court and demonstrate that you have an essential need to drive. The process includes:

Filing a petition in the county where you live or where your suspension originated
Providing proof of financial responsibility (SR-22 insurance)
If your suspension was DWI-related, potentially installing an ignition interlock device
Having the court sign an order granting the ODL

Attorney McLarty handles every step of this process for her clients — from filing the petition to obtaining the signed court order — so you can get back on the road as quickly as possible.

Facing Criminal Charges in Fort Worth? Don't Wait, Get Help Today.

The earlier you involve an experienced criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Attorney Chelsi McLarty offers free case consultations and is ready to go to work for you right away.