A hardship license (in Missouri) or restricted driving permit (in Illinois) is a limited driving privilege issued during a license suspension. It allows driving for essential purposes (work, school, medical care, and certain family obligations) even when the regular license is suspended.
In Missouri, a Limited Driving Privilege (LDP) is available after most DWI-related suspensions, sometimes from the date of arrest, often requiring an ignition interlock device (IID). The application goes through the circuit court in your county of residence.
In Illinois, the Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP) is automatic for most first-time DUIs after the statutory summary suspension takes effect. The MDDP requires IID installation and reporting.
Hardship licenses don't restore full driving privileges. They restrict the times, routes, and purposes of driving. Violations can result in extending the underlying suspension or new criminal charges.