Losing your license is arguably one of the most frustrating aspects of dealing with the fallout of an impaired driving charge in New Hampshire. Depending on the number of previous offenses on your record and other factors, like the refusal of a breath test, you could lose your license for anywhere from a few months to the rest of your life.
Not having the ability to just get in your car and drive to make it hard to get to work and can even put your family and a difficult position if you can no longer fulfill their basic needs, like getting your kids to school or driving a loved one to a medical appointment.
It is possible for some people who have had their license suspended due to an impaired driving offense to regain that lost privilege with certain restrictions.
What is the Z restriction?
New Hampshire has a number of limitations and restrictions that they can place on a driver’s license. The Z restriction is reserved solely for those involved in impaired driving offenses involving alcohol. The Z restriction on your license limits your right to drive to only vehicles with an alcohol interlock device installed.
In order to regain your driving privileges using this restriction, you will have to pay for the installation of an alcohol interlock device in your vehicle and also cover the cost of its maintenance and upkeep. Every time that you get in your car to drive, you will need to complete a breath test before the car will start. You may also have to perform additional tests as you drive.
A Z restriction allows people to regain their autonomy
When you can’t drive, your whole life can come screeching to a halt. Being dependent on others, public transportation or ride-hailing apps to get everywhere you need to be can be unreliable and frustrating, as well as possibly expensive.
Losing your license can affect your job, your family and your social life. While using an alcohol interlock device might feel embarrassing, it is an opportunity for you to retain your independence and help keep you on the road after a mandatory suspension of your license.
