With an occupation license, you may drive:

  • to and from work
  • to and from places that you need to visit to maintain your household such as:
    • grocery store or market
    • pharmacy
    • laundromat
    • gas station

An occupational license is a restricted driver's license that may be available to you if your privilege to operate a motor vehicle is suspended or revoked. An occupational license enables you to maintain your employment and household. Unlike a regular license, an occupational license limits when, where and what type of vehicle you may drive.

ChargeOccupational License Waiting Period
OWI 1stNo Waiting Period
OWI 2nd or More

45 Day Waiting Period

(12 Month if two or more offenses within five years)

Causing Injury While Intoxicated60 Day Waiting Period

Implied Consent Refusal 1st

30 Day Waiting Period
Implied Consent Refusal 2nd90 Day Waiting Period
Implied Consent Refusal 3rd or More120 Day Waiting Period
OWI Homicide or Great Bodily Harm120 Day Waiting Period


You may not use an occupational license for recreational purposes or to operate a commercial motor vehicle. Your total driving time is limited to 12 hours each day and no more than 60 hours for the entire week. If you operate outside those specific hours or for a purpose not permitted on the license, you may be arrested for operating after suspension or revocation. If you need to travel through another state, you need to check to see if they allow operation with a Wisconsin occupational license. All states may not honor a Wisconsin occupational license. ​

(920) 659-5500

Occupational License

What is an SR-22?

             The SR-22 ("SR" standing for "safety responsibility") is required in Wisconsin to obtain an occupational license after an OWI suspension. It is a document verifying that you have automobile insurance. The SR-22 is prepared by your insurance company and then filed with the DMV.

OWI DUI Defense Attorney Paul C. Rohloff

  • ​to and from school, college or university
  • to and from your church or place of worship
  • ​to attend to necessary family needs such as medical appointments