If your driver’s licence has been disqualified, you may be eligible to apply for an Extraordinary Driver’s Licence (EDL) under the Road Traffic (Authorisation to Drive) Act 2008 (WA). This is a restricted licence granted at the discretion of the Court, and is typically issued to individuals who can demonstrate exceptional hardship as a result of their disqualification.

At Vogt Legal, we have experience advising clients on their eligibility for an EDL and preparing strong applications to help them get back on the road lawfully.

Who can apply?

You may be eligible to apply for an EDL if your licence has been cancelled or disqualified. However, you cannot apply if your disqualification was due to:

• a roadside disqualification notice issued by the police; or,
• a Licence Suspension Order for unpaid fines or infringements; or,
• excessive demerit points (including breach of a double or nothing election); or,
• a disqualification from another state.

When can you apply?

The waiting period before you can apply depends on the nature of the offence that led to your disqualification. In some cases, the waiting period may be as short as 21 days, while other offences require a longer delay - up to four months. If your application is refused, you must wait six months before reapplying.

What does the Court consider?

In deciding whether to grant an EDL, the Court must be satisfied that refusing the application would:

• deprive you or a family member of the means to obtain urgent medical treatment; or,
• impose an undue financial burden on you or your family by preventing you from earning an income; or,
• prevent you or a family member from accessing the only practical means of transport to and from work.

The Court will also consider factors such as public safety, the nature of the original offence, your character, and your conduct since the disqualification.

What conditions may apply?

If an EDL is granted, it usually comes with strict conditions, such as:

• specific hours or days you are permitted to drive; and/or,
• approved purposes for driving (e.g. work, medical appointments); and/or,
• approved routes or locations; and/or,
• vehicle restrictions; and/or,
• logbook requirements.

Breaching the conditions of your EDL can result in the immediate cancellation of the licence, tough fines, and vehicle impoundment.

How we can help

Our team can advise you on your eligibility, prepare the necessary court documents, and represent you throughout the process to give you the best possible chance of success.

Need to apply for an Extraordinary Driver’s Licence? Call us on (08) 9328 5662 today for a free and confidential initial consultation.