New Rules For PA Work License with DUI

It looks like the Pennsylvania State Government is working to make the PA Work License or Occupational Limited License more available, but with tighter restrictions, to 1st and 2nd time DUI violations. Under the new regulations the fee for a work license application will go up from $50 to $100 which seems more than reasonable considering how much work the employees at PennDOT must do for each application. This fee is not refundable, and experience has shown that finding out if you are eligible for the license is a bit on the tricky side. I talk to dozens of people every week who tell me they can't get a straight answer if they qualify for the Occupational License, and I have to set most straight on reasons they may be disqualified or on how we can get them qualified or the work license.

The proposed new regulations would also require a first time DUI violation to get the limited license after serving a set time of suspension and would require the instillation and maintenance of the Ignition Interlock system. The ignition interlock system is a system to prevent the starting and operation of a vehicle by anyone who can not pass a breath test. The system measures blood alcohol levels through a breathalyzer and prevent the start of the vehicle. The interlock system also requires re-test during the extended operation of the vehicle, and will provide a shutdown if the test is ignored or failed. This is a basic prevention measure and is a good first step toward recovery, and not a horrible choice to allow violators a break without being too much of an obstruction.

You can find the full text of the proposed regulations and changes to the Occupational Limited License Law below. Please share your thoughts about requiring the interlock system for first and second time DUI offenders. Is it too much of a restriction or should more be done to prevent violators from driving?

PA Work License - Occupational License - Bread & Butter License new DUI rules