Work Licence Lawyer QLD

What is a work licence in Queensland?

A work licence in Queensland (also known as a restricted licence) is a court-approved licence that allows eligible drivers to continue driving for limited work-related purposes after being charged with drink driving.

If granted, a work licence may allow you to drive to and from work, or for specific employment duties, while serving a disqualification period.

Work licences are only available in certain drink driving cases and are subject to strict eligibility criteria.

Am I eligible for a work licence in Queensland?

You may be eligible for a work licence in QLD if you meet strict requirements, including:

• You held a valid open licence at the time of the offence

• Your BAC reading is within the eligible range

• You do not have recent serious traffic convictions

• You can demonstrate genuine hardship without a licence

• You require a licence for employment purposes

Eligibility is not automatic and must be proven to the court with supporting evidence.

How does a work licence application work?

A work licence application must be made to the Magistrates Court and supported by sworn evidence.

This typically includes:

• An affidavit explaining your employment circumstances

• Evidence from your employer confirming job requirements

• A detailed proposal of your work driving schedule

• Legal submissions addressing eligibility and hardship

The court will decide whether granting a work licence is appropriate in your circumstances.

What can I drive on a work licence?

If granted, a work licence in Queensland will only allow you to drive under strict conditions set by the court.

This may include:

• Driving only for work-related purposes

• Driving within specific hours

• Driving specific vehicles

• Strict compliance with court-imposed conditions

Driving outside these conditions is a breach of the order and may result in serious penalties.

What happens if my work licence application is refused?

If a work licence application is refused, you will be required to serve the full disqualification period without driving.

A refusal can occur where:

• You do not meet eligibility requirements

• Evidence of hardship is insufficient

• The court is not satisfied the criteria are met

Proper preparation is critical to improving your chances of success.

Can I apply for a work licence after a drink driving charge?

Yes — but strict time limits apply.

Work licence applications must generally be made at the same time as your court appearance for the drink driving offence. You cannot apply at any time after sentencing.

This makes early legal advice extremely important.