---
title: "What is the RDP (Restricted Driving Permit) application process?"
description: "An Illinois Restricted Driving Permit lets a driver with a revoked license drive for hardship purposes such as work, education, medical appointments, alcohol treatment, or day care. The applicant..."
url: https://chicagoduilawyer.net/faq-items/what-is-the-rdp-restricted-driving-permit-application-process/
date: 2026-07-08
modified: 2026-07-08
author: "Chicago DUI Lawyer"
type: faq
lang: en
---

# What is the RDP (Restricted Driving Permit) application process?

An Illinois Restricted Driving Permit lets a driver with a revoked license drive for hardship purposes such as work, education, medical appointments, alcohol treatment, or day care. The applicant requests a Secretary of State hearing, submits a current alcohol and drug evaluation, proof of any recommended treatment, three uniform reports of treatment continuation if applicable, a driving abstract, and SR-22 filing. At the hearing, the applicant must prove hardship and that alcohol or drug use no longer poses a public safety risk. Purpose, hours, and geographic scope are all defined on the permit. A Chicago DUI lawyer prepares the packet and handles hearing questions before submission.