Indiana law allows many drivers whose licenses have been suspended to petition the court for Specialized Driving Privileges (SDP) under Indiana Code 9-30-16. People often call this a "hardship license" or "work license." If granted, an SDP order lets you drive for purposes the court approves, typically including work, school, medical care, and child care, even though your full driving privileges remain suspended.

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Common reasons people need SDP

• OWI conviction or arrest with an administrative license suspension.

• Refusal to submit to a chemical test.

• Driving while suspended convictions.

• Habitual traffic violator (HTV) status, including ten-year and lifetime HTV suspensions.

• Lapsed insurance suspensions.

• Failure to pay child support suspensions.

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What the petition involves

The petition is filed in the county where you live or where the underlying conviction occurred, and it must include your driving record, proof of SR-22 insurance, and a detailed explanation of the driving you need to do. The court has discretion to grant or deny the petition and to set conditions, such as ignition interlock or limited hours. Attorney Fontanez prepares the petition, gathers the supporting documentation, and appears with you at the hearing.

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​Free phone consultation

Call (219) 554-0282 to find out whether you qualify for Specialized Driving Privileges.