What Wyoming calls a hardship license and who can get one
Wyoming does not use the term "hardship license." Instead, the state offers a restricted license to drivers whose licenses have been suspended or revoked. A restricted license lets you drive for specific purposes — usually work, school, medical appointments, or court-ordered programs — even though your full driving privileges are suspended.
You can request a restricted license if your suspension is for a DUI conviction, unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or failure to maintain insurance. You cannot get a restricted license if your suspension is for medical reasons (like failing a vision test) or if you are under 16.
The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) does not automatically grant restricted licenses. You must request one in writing and show the court or WYDOT that you have a genuine need to drive for one of the approved purposes.
Key Takeaways
- Wyoming calls this a restricted license, not a hardship license, and it allows driving only for work, school, medical care, court programs, or other court-approved reasons.
- You must request a restricted license in writing to the district court in the county where you were convicted or where your suspension was issued.
- The court will consider your reason for needing to drive and may require proof such as a job letter, school enrollment, or medical appointment documentation.
- A restricted license costs money (fees vary by county) and does not reduce the length of your suspension — it only permits limited driving during the suspension period.
- You must carry proof of the restricted license at all times, and driving outside the approved purposes is a violation that can result in arrest.
How to request a restricted license in Wyoming
Start by contacting the district court in the county where your suspension was issued. This is usually the county where you were convicted or where the violation occurred. You can find the court's phone number on the Wyoming Judicial Branch website or by calling your county clerk's office.
Ask the court clerk for the form to request a restricted license. Different counties may use slightly different forms, but all require you to state the reason you need to drive and provide supporting documents. Write a clear letter explaining why you need the license — for example, that you have a job you cannot reach by other means, or that you are enrolled in school.
Gather proof of your stated need. If you are requesting the license for work, bring a signed letter from your employer on company letterhead stating that you work there, your job duties, and your work schedule. If you need it for school, bring an enrollment letter or class schedule. If you need it for medical treatment, bring an appointment letter or prescription documentation.
Submit your request form and supporting documents to the court. Some courts accept mail, email, or in-person delivery. Ask the clerk which method they prefer and whether there is a filing fee. Keep a copy of everything you submit.
What the court considers when deciding
The judge will review your request based on whether you have shown a genuine hardship. Wyoming law requires that you demonstrate a "substantial and compelling reason" to drive during your suspension. A job you can reach by other transportation, or a school you can attend online, will not meet this standard.
The court will also consider your driving record before the suspension, your reason for the suspension, and whether you have complied with other court orders (such as paying fines or completing a DUI program). If your suspension is for unpaid fines or child support, the court may require proof that you have made a payment plan or are current on payments.
If the court grants your request, you will receive a written order. Take this order to WYDOT to obtain your restricted license. If the court denies your request, you can ask for a hearing where you can present your case in person, though this requires filing a motion and paying additional fees.
Restrictions on what you can drive and where
Your restricted license will list the specific purposes for which you can drive. Common restrictions include driving to and from work only, driving to and from school only, or driving to and from medical appointments. Some restricted licenses allow driving to court-ordered programs like DUI education classes.
You cannot use a restricted license to drive for any other purpose. Driving to a restaurant, a friend's house, or the grocery store while your restricted license is in effect is a violation. Police can stop you and check whether your route matches your stated purpose, especially if you are pulled over for another reason.
The license will also specify the hours you can drive. For example, you may be permitted to drive only between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., or only on weekdays. Some restricted licenses allow 24-hour driving if your job requires it, but you must request this and provide proof.
How long a restricted license lasts
A restricted license does not shorten your suspension. If your suspension is for one year, a restricted license allows you to drive for specific purposes during that year, but your full driving privileges do not return until the year is over.
The restricted license itself is valid only while your suspension is in effect. Once your suspension ends, you do not need the restricted license anymore — your regular license (or a new one, if yours was revoked) becomes valid again.
If you violate the terms of your restricted license — for example, by driving outside the approved purposes or hours — the court can revoke the restricted license and extend your suspension. You could also face criminal charges for driving with a suspended license.
Costs and what you need to bring to WYDOT
There is no state fee for a restricted license in Wyoming, but some counties charge a court filing fee to request one, usually between $50 and $150. Ask the court clerk about the fee when you submit your request.
Once the court approves your request, take the court's written order to any WYDOT office. Bring your current ID (even if it is suspended), proof of residency (a utility bill or lease), and the court order. WYDOT will issue your restricted license on the spot, usually at no additional charge.
If your license was revoked (not just suspended), you may also need to pass a written test or vision test before WYDOT will issue the restricted license. Ask the court or WYDOT whether this applies to you.
What happens if you drive without a restricted license during a suspension
Driving with a suspended or revoked license in Wyoming is a crime. If you are stopped and do not have a valid restricted license for the purpose you are driving, you can be arrested, fined up to $750, and have your license suspended for an additional period. A second offense within five years can result in jail time.
If you are in an accident while driving illegally, your insurance will not cover the damage, and you could be sued personally. You could also lose your job if your employer learns you were driving illegally.
If your circumstances change and you no longer need the restricted license, or if you need to change the purposes listed on it, contact the court that issued it. Do not straightforward stop using the license — you must formally request a modification or surrender it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a restricted license if my suspension is for unpaid traffic fines?
Yes, but the court will likely require proof that you are paying the fines or have set up a payment plan. Contact the court that issued the ticket to ask about payment options before you request the restricted license. Showing the court that you are taking the debt seriously improves your chances.
What if I need to drive for a reason not listed on my restricted license?
Contact the court that issued the license and request a modification. Explain the new reason and provide supporting documents, just as you did for the original request. The court can add purposes to your license if it finds the reason compelling. Do not drive for the new purpose until the court approves it.
Do I have to carry my restricted license with me at all times?
Yes. You must carry the restricted license and be able to show it to a police officer if you are stopped. You should also carry documentation that supports your stated purpose — for example, a work schedule or school ID — in case a police officer questions whether your route matches your license.
Can I appeal if the court denies my request?
Yes. You can file a motion for reconsideration or request a hearing before the judge. This requires filing paperwork with the court and paying a fee. If you are denied, ask the court clerk what the process is in your county and what documents you need to file.
What is the difference between a restricted license and a probationary license?
A probationary license is issued to new drivers under 18 and has restrictions on passengers and nighttime driving. A restricted license is issued during a suspension or revocation and allows driving only for specific purposes. They are different programs with different rules.