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What's a hardship license in Illinois?

I received 70 points on my license in Illinois, and the state suspended my license. I’m the sole provider for my family, so now I can’t get to work. Traffic court said I’m eligible for a hardship license, but I’m not familiar with that. What exactly is a hardship license in Illinois?

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Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Since
Illinois
suspended your license, perhaps your only plan of action is to get a hardship license when you need it. A hardship license in Illinois is a restricted license that allows you to go only to specified places, like your place of work, your school, and your doctor’s office. Essentially, it’s a license that allows you to drive only for essential reasons.
To get a hardship license in Illinois, follow these steps:
  • Request your hardship license. You can do this at traffic court or have your lawyer do it on your behalf.
  • Attend a hearing.
  • Prove that you’re no danger to the public. Oftentimes, your lawyer is better versed to handle this part of the hearing.
  • Prove to the court that you have a hardship due to family responsibilities or medical reasons.
  • Pay a $50 filing fee.
The court may also require you to get an
SR-22 in Illinois
, which can up your insurance rates quite a bit. So if you get a hardship license, also make sure to use the
Jerry
app to get the best rate possible.
Jerry is a licensed insurance broker that will collect quotes from over 50 top-rated insurers in minutes. After you find a great rate, Jerry can help you buy new insurance and cancel your old policy. Users save an average of $887 per year.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

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