Texas Ignition Interlock Employer Exemption
Understanding employer vehicle exemptions for ignition interlock devices through Texas occupational driver license
Employer Exemption Available Through Occupational License
Texas allows exemptions for employer-owned or leased vehicles when you have an occupational driver license (ODL). You can drive employer vehicles for work purposes without an interlock device, but your personal vehicle must still have the device installed.
Texas Employer Exemption Overview
Texas provides employer exemptions through the occupational driver license (ODL) system. If you obtain an ODL, you may drive employer-owned or leased vehicles during work hours without an interlock device. This exemption is designed to help individuals maintain employment while complying with interlock requirements on their personal vehicles.
Exemption Benefits
- Drive employer vehicles without interlock
- Maintain employment requiring driving
- Available through occupational license
- Employer avoids installation costs
Important Requirements
- Must obtain occupational driver license
- Personal vehicle still requires interlock
- Work hours and duties only
- Employer must provide documentation
Requirements for Employer Exemption
Occupational Driver License (ODL) Requirements
To qualify for the employer exemption, you must first obtain an occupational driver license:
- File petition for occupational license with the court
- Show essential need for driving (employment, education, essential household duties)
- File SR-22 insurance certificate with Texas DPS
- Pay application fees (typically $125-$200)
Employer Vehicle Eligibility
- Vehicle must be owned by employer (not owned by employee)
- Vehicle must be leased by employer (employer as lessee)
- Used exclusively for work-related duties during work hours
- Cannot be taken home or used for personal errands
Employer Documentation Required
- Written statement from employer on company letterhead
- Employer must state vehicle is necessary for your job duties
- Employer must be notified of DUI and interlock requirement
- Proof of vehicle ownership (registration in employer's name)
Personal Vehicle Requirements
- Must install interlock on any personal vehicle you own or regularly operate
- The exemption ONLY applies to employer-owned vehicles
- Must maintain proof of interlock installation for personal vehicle
How to Obtain Employer Exemption (6 Steps)
File for Occupational Driver License
Petition the court for an occupational driver license (ODL). This typically requires hiring an attorney to file the petition, prepare evidence of essential need, and appear at the hearing. Courts usually grant ODLs for employment purposes.
Obtain SR-22 Insurance
Purchase SR-22 insurance and have it filed with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). This is required before the court will grant your occupational license. The SR-22 must remain active throughout your suspension period.
Notify Your Employer
Inform your employer of your DUI conviction and the interlock requirement. Explain that Texas law allows you to drive employer vehicles without an interlock if you have an occupational license and the employer provides required documentation.
Obtain Employer Written Statement
Have your employer provide a written statement on company letterhead stating: confirmation of employment, statement that driving is necessary for your job duties, acknowledgment of your DUI and interlock requirement, and confirmation that the vehicle is employer-owned.
Install Interlock on Personal Vehicle
Install an ignition interlock device on your personal vehicle. Even with an occupational license and employer exemption, you must have an interlock on any personal vehicle. Keep proof of installation.
Submit Documentation to Court/DPS
Provide the employer statement and proof of interlock installation to the court as part of your ODL application. Once granted, your occupational license will specify the conditions, including employer vehicle exemption during work hours.
Important: An occupational license is not automatic. You must petition the court and demonstrate essential need. Most attorneys charge $500-$1,500 to handle the occupational license petition. The hearing typically occurs 2-3 weeks after filing.
Restrictions and Limitations
Occupational License Restrictions
- Specific hours: Your ODL will specify allowed driving hours (typically work hours plus commute)
- Specific purposes: Limited to work, education, essential household duties, medical appointments
- Must carry ODL: Keep occupational license document in vehicle at all times
- No personal use: Employer vehicle cannot be used for personal errands
Employer Vehicle Usage Limitations
- Work duties only - no personal errands
- Work hours only (as specified on ODL)
- Cannot take vehicle home unless specified on ODL
- Must stay within geographic limits on ODL (if any)
Duration of Requirement
Texas ignition interlock requirements typically last:
- • First offense (BAC 0.15%+): 6 months minimum
- • Second offense: 1 year minimum
- • Third+ offense: 1-2 years (or longer)
- • Child passenger enhancement: Additional 1 year
Violations and Consequences
Violating the terms of your occupational license or employer exemption will result in serious consequences in Texas:
Common Violations
- Driving outside hours specified on ODL
- Using employer vehicle for personal errands
- Driving personal vehicle without interlock
- Not carrying ODL documentation
Penalties
- Immediate revocation of occupational license
- New criminal charge (driving while suspended)
- Extended suspension period
- Fines up to $2,000 and possible jail time
Warning: Texas DPS and law enforcement actively monitor occupational license compliance. If stopped, you must show your ODL and prove you're driving within the allowed parameters. Any violation will result in immediate arrest and loss of driving privileges.
What Employers Need to Know
Employer Benefits of Exemption
Granting an exemption through the occupational license system benefits employers:
- No cost to install interlock devices on company vehicles
- Retain experienced employee without driving restrictions
- Avoid costs of hiring and training replacement employee
- Simpler than managing interlock device on fleet vehicles
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide written statement confirming employment and vehicle necessity
- Acknowledge employee's DUI conviction and interlock requirement
- Ensure vehicle remains for work use only during work hours
- Notify commercial insurance carrier of employee's status
Recommendation: Most Texas employers find the occupational license exemption system easier and more cost-effective than installing interlock devices on company vehicles. The employer simply provides documentation - no device installation or monitoring required. However, consult your commercial insurance provider before providing the required documentation.
Need Help with Texas Occupational License & Interlock?
An experienced Texas DUI attorney can help you obtain an occupational driver license, secure employer exemption, and ensure compliance with all interlock requirements.
Find a Texas DUI AttorneyRelated Resources
Sources & References
Official guidance on ignition interlock device requirements in Texas.
Official guidance on obtaining and maintaining an occupational driver license in Texas.
State legislation regarding ignition interlock device requirements and exemptions.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about ignition interlock employer exemptions in Texas. Laws and requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with the Texas DPS and consult with a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.