Work Licences in Queensland: Restricted Licences & Special Hardship Orders Explained

Life without a driver’s licence can cause significant challenges, especially if your livelihood depends on driving.

Fortunately, Queensland law provides relief for those facing licence disqualification through two key types of work licences: the Restricted Licence (Section 87 Licence) and the Special Hardship Order (SHO).

This guide will help you understand each type of licence, their eligibility criteria, and the application process.

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Work Licences in Queensland

Understanding Queensland's Work Licences

Queensland offers two main options for drivers who face licence suspensions or disqualifications but need to drive for work-related or personal hardship reasons:

  • Restricted Licence (Section 87 Licence)

    A Restricted Licence allows you to continue driving if you’re facing disqualification for certain drink-driving or drug-driving offences, provided you need your licence for work-related purposes to avoid severe financial hardship.

    Criminal Law Services
  • Special Hardship Order (SHO)

    A Special Hardship Order can be granted if your licence has been suspended by the Department of Transport and Main Roads due to demerit points accumulation or a high-speed suspension. You can apply for this order on two grounds:

    • Extreme financial hardship if you cannot drive.
    • Severe and unusual hardship beyond financial reasons if you cannot drive.
    Aggregated Penalties

Eligibility Criteria for Restricted Licences & Special Hardship Orders

While both the Restricted Licence and SHO have similar eligibility criteria, there are key differences to note. Here's what you need to know:

The Application Process for Work Licences

If you’re eligible for a Restricted Licence or a Special Hardship Order, the next step is applying. The process is as follows:

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  • Prepare Affidavit Materials

    We will draft all the necessary affidavit documents, ensuring that all eligibility criteria are clearly outlined and supported.

  • Swearing the Affidavits

    The affidavits must be sworn either at our office or before a qualified individual.

  • Filing in Magistrates Court

    The affidavit materials need to be filed at the relevant Magistrates Court registry.

  • Serving the Documents

    The sealed affidavits must be served to the other party, which is typically either Police Prosecutions or the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

  • Court Hearing

    Your application will be heard before a Magistrate, where we will present your case and make submissions on your behalf.

  • Post-Approval

    If the licence or order is granted, you will need to attend a Transport and Main Roads (TMR) service centre to have the condition placed on your licence.

Why Work with Bazzi Law?

At Bazzi Law, we understand the stress and challenges of facing licence suspension or disqualification, especially when your livelihood is on the line.

Our experienced team specialises in traffic law and will guide you through the process, from preparing your affidavits to representing you in court. We know that every case is unique, and we’re dedicated to finding the best solution for you, whether that’s securing a Restricted Licence or a Special Hardship Order.

Our priority is to ensure that you can keep driving under the necessary conditions, minimising the disruption to your life.

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