Last Updated on July 23, 2025 by Beltz Law Group
How Long Does It Take to Get an Occupational Driver License (ODL) in Texas?
Occupational Driver License Attorney Texas
One of the most frequent and important questions our occupational driver license lawyers are asked is, “How long will it take to get my occupational driver license?” This is a crucial concern, as the ability to drive legally directly impacts job opportunities, daily responsibilities, and overall peace of mind.
The answer to this question isn’t a simple fixed number; it varies significantly depending on the county where you file your petition. However, we can provide estimated timelines for some of the major counties we serve, assuming you provide all necessary documentation promptly. Keep in mind that part of the process’s speed depends on the client’s willingness to gather and submit the required documents to their attorney in a timely manner.
If you have questions about obtaining an ODL and would like our experienced attorneys to assist you, feel free to call us at 214-321-4105 after reading this article.
Understanding the “By Submission” Advantage
A key factor in the speed of obtaining an ODL is whether the court allows requests “by submission” versus requiring a “formal hearing.”
- By Submission: This means your attorney can submit all the required paperwork to the judge, and the judge will review and sign the ODL order without requiring you or your attorney to appear in court for a hearing. This significantly streamlines the process.
- Formal Hearing: Some courts or judges require a scheduled court appearance where you and your attorney must present your case to the judge. This adds time due to court scheduling availability and the need for all parties to be present.
Estimated Timelines by County:
Here’s a breakdown of estimated timelines for ODL requests in key Texas counties, based on our experience:
North Texas Occupational Driver License Attorney
Dallas County Occupational Driver License Requests
- Estimated Time: Less than a week (often same day)
- Our Approach: In Dallas County, we typically file our requests in Justice of the Peace Precinct 2-1 in Garland, Texas. We choose this court because it is highly efficient and generally allows us to make ODL requests “by submission.” As long as all the necessary documentation is correctly attached to the petition, the judge usually grants the request in less than a week. In many cases, we’ve even had the judge sign ODL requests the same day they are submitted.
Tarrant County Occupational Driver License Requests
- Estimated Time: Less than a week
- Our Approach: For Tarrant County, we often file our ODL requests in Justice of the Peace Precinct 7 in Mansfield, Texas. While it involves a bit of a drive, this court is very cooperative in processing and approving ODL requests by submission, provided all documentation is properly attached to the petition.
- Key Required Documentation (for all counties, but highlighted here):
- A certified copy of your driving record (Type 2A or 3A from DPS).
- A copy of your Driver License Eligibility page from the DPS website, showing the reason for suspension.
- A copy of your SR-22 Insurance Binder. (This specialized insurance is mandatory for ODLs and proves you have the required liability coverage even with a suspended license).
North Texas Occupational Driver License
Denton County Occupational Driver License Requests
- Estimated Time: Less than a week (often same day)
- Our Approach: In Denton County, we file our ODL requests in Justice of the Peace Precinct 4 in Flower Mound, Texas. The judge in this precinct is very helpful, and their staff is highly responsive to ODL requests. We have frequently seen ODL requests signed on the same day as submission. If the judge is available, they will often sign the documents and return them to the clerks almost immediately.
Rockwall County Occupational Driver License Requests
- Estimated Time: One to two weeks (possibly longer)
- Our Approach: Rockwall County has four precincts where an ODL request can be filed. Historically, processes here have been less streamlined. For instance, Rockwall County Precinct 2, under the previous judge, often required a formal hearing, which could significantly delay the process based on the judge’s hearing schedule. While a new judge has been assigned to Precinct 2, we are currently evaluating if the process has improved. Our occupational driver license lawyers are actively exploring filing in Precinct 4, with Judge Whitten, to see if she is amenable to accepting filings by submission. We are hopeful that as judges in Rockwall County become more familiar with these filings, the process will become more efficient.
Kaufman County Occupational Driver License Requests
- Estimated Time: One to two weeks (possibly longer)
- Our Approach: The old adage, “the further east you go in Texas, the slower things roll,” often rings true for ODL requests in Kaufman County. Clerks here typically operate at their own pace. However, we have found that the further west you go within the county, the faster results tend to be. For this reason, we often suggest filing ODL requests in Justice of the Peace Precinct 2 in Forney, Texas. We have experienced that this court generally does not require a formal hearing and is willing to accept documents by submission, making it the most efficient option in Kaufman County we’ve found so far.
Occupational Driver License Lawyer
What You Can Do to Speed Up the Process
While court processes vary, your actions can significantly influence the speed of your ODL approval:
- Gather Documents Promptly: Have your certified driving record, eligibility page, and SR-22 insurance binder ready for your attorney as soon as possible. Delays in getting these vital documents are the most common reason for extended timelines.
- Provide Accurate Information: Ensure all personal details, employment information, and reasons for essential need are accurate and complete.
- Be Responsive: Be available to answer any follow-up questions from your attorney or the court quickly.
Obtaining an ODL is a critical step towards regaining your driving privileges for essential purposes. By understanding the process and working efficiently with an experienced attorney, you can minimize the time you spend off the road.
If you have questions about an occupational driver license request and would like our attorneys to assist you, feel free to call 214-321-4105.
