AL HB166

Authorizes persons with suspended or revoked driver's licenses to apply for a restricted license through either the court presiding over their traffic offense or the Department of Public Safety upon demonstration of substantial need.

Defines substantial need to include employment, school attendance, medical care, court-ordered programs, parole compliance, and dependent care, with specified documentation requirements for each category.

Allows the court or department to impose restrictions on the use of the license including limitations on purpose, time, place, and requirement to install an ignition interlock device at the driver's expense.

Establishes that a restricted license remains valid until the suspension ends and outstanding fines and fees are repaid, with willful failure to make three consecutive scheduled payments resulting in revocation and reinstatement of the original suspension.

Creates criminal penalties: Class B misdemeanor for intentionally or knowingly violating any designated restriction on the license, and Class A misdemeanor for intentionally or knowingly making false statements to obtain a restricted license.

Prohibits issuance of restricted licenses to persons suspended or revoked for homicide, reckless driving, trafficking, or physical or mental disability.