If you need to drive for work and have been charged with drink driving in Queensland, a work licence may allow you to keep driving during your disqualification period. Here is how the process works.
A work licence is a special type of licence available to some people charged with drink driving in Queensland. It allows the holder to drive for work purposes only during a period when they would otherwise be disqualified. Work licences are not available for all drink driving charges, and meeting the eligibility criteria is essential before making an application.
To be eligible for a work licence, you must hold a Queensland open licence (not a learner or provisional licence), the charge must be low-range or middle-range drink driving (not high-range), it must be a first offence (no prior drink or drug driving convictions within five years), and you must genuinely require your licence for work purposes. You must also not be a professional driver whose licence is a condition of their employment contract.
The application is made to the Magistrates Court at the time of sentencing on the drink driving charge. It must be supported by a statutory declaration from your employer or evidence of self-employment, confirming that you need your licence to carry out your work duties. The court has discretion to grant or refuse the application even if you meet the eligibility criteria.
A work licence is strictly limited to driving for work purposes. You cannot drive for personal reasons, to and from work, or for any purpose not directly connected to your work duties. Breaching these conditions is an offence and can result in the licence being cancelled and criminal charges.
If you do not qualify for a work licence but a licence disqualification would cause genuine hardship, a special hardship order (SHO) may be available. An SHO is broader in scope and can allow driving for work, medical appointments, and other essential purposes. The eligibility criteria differ from a work licence application and legal advice is essential before deciding which path to pursue.