What is a lockout period?

An important part of the process of getting your driver's license back

When someone loses their driver's license due to alcohol or drugs, they often talk about "disqualification." But what does it really mean, and how does it affect the possibility of getting their driver's license back? Here, we explain the concept in a clear and reliable way.

What does curfew mean?

A driving ban is the period of time during which you are not allowed to have a driving license. It starts from the date the Swedish Transport Agency decides to revoke your driving license, and lasts for a set period of time – often between 6 months and 3 years depending on the severity of the offense.

During the suspension period, you are not only prohibited from driving – you also cannot apply for a new driver's license or driver's license permit.

When do you get a curfew?

The ban period is decided by the Swedish Transport Agency when a driving license is revoked, usually after:

• Drunk driving (alcohol)
• Drug driving
• Refusal to provide samples (blood/urine)
• Repeated traffic violations or serious traffic offenses

How long will the suspension period be?

The Swedish Transport Agency determines the length of the closure period based on several factors, such as:

• Alcohol concentration (e.g. 1.0 per mille or more usually results in a longer ban)
• Presence of drugs
• Previous traffic offenses or recidivism

There are guidelines but each case is assessed individually.

What happens after the curfew?

The fact that the suspension period expires does not automatically mean that you will get your driver's license back.

You must apply for a new driving license, and in most cases you are also required to undergo a medical examination. The Swedish Transport Agency may require you to submit regular tests (blood tests and urine tests) during an observation period of 6 or 12 months, which Rehabera can help you with.

Curfew and medical requirements

If you have lost your driving license due to alcohol or drugs, the Swedish Transport Agency may require you to demonstrate sobriety over time. This is done by:

• Blood tests (for example, CDT, GT and B-PEth)
• Urine test for drugs
• Medical certificate based on the samples

This must be done during and/or after the suspension period before you can get your driver's license back.

Can the blocking period be shortened?

No, the suspension period is binding. There is no room for exemption or appeal once the decision has become final. However, you can use the time constructively to show that you are sober and fit to drive – which increases the chance of getting your license back once the suspension period is over.

How Rehabera can help you

At Rehabera, we specialize in supporting people who want to get their driver's license back after it has been revoked. We offer:

• Regular drug and alcohol tests according to the Swedish Transport Agency's requirements
• Medical report at the end of the observation period
• Support throughout the process

We are located all over Sweden and offer a discreet, safe and medically competent service - so you can focus on getting back on the road.