PennDOT DL-3805 Ignition Interlock Employment Exemption – If you hold a Pennsylvania Ignition Interlock License and your job requires you to drive an employer-owned vehicle, Form DL-3805 (Ignition Interlock Employment Exemption Affidavit) is the official document that may allow you to operate that vehicle without an ignition interlock device—strictly for work purposes. This guide covers eligibility, restrictions, how to complete the form, and where to download the official PDF from PennDOT.
What Is PennDOT Form DL-3805?
Form DL-3805 is the official Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) affidavit used when a driver with an Ignition Interlock restricted license needs to operate a company-owned vehicle that does not have an ignition interlock system installed. The form is completed and signed by the employer (or authorized supervisor), notarized, and must be carried by the driver at all times while operating the employer-owned vehicle.
The legal basis for this exemption is found in 75 Pa.C.S. § 3805(f). It permits restricted drivers to operate employer-owned vehicles in the course and scope of employment under specific conditions.
Official Download Link: Download PennDOT Form DL-3805 (PDF)
Who Qualifies for the Ignition Interlock Employment Exemption?
To use Form DL-3805, you must meet all of the following requirements:
- You hold a valid Pennsylvania Ignition Interlock License (restricted license).
- Your job requires you to drive, operate, or be in actual physical control of a motor vehicle owned by your employer.
- The vehicle is used only for employment purposes (not personal use).
- Your employer has been notified of your interlock restriction.
- You carry a fully completed and notarized DL-3805 form while driving the employer vehicle.
The exemption applies only to employer-owned vehicles. It does not allow you to drive any personal vehicle without an interlock device.
When the Employment Exemption Does Not Apply?
PennDOT and Pennsylvania law strictly prohibit use of the DL-3805 exemption in these situations:
- Driving a school bus, school vehicle, or any vehicle designed to transport more than 15 passengers (including the driver).
- The employer-owned vehicle is owned by an entity that is wholly or partially owned or controlled by the person holding the Ignition Interlock License (for example, a business owner cannot use the exemption for their own company vehicles).
- The employer-owned vehicle is made available to the employee for personal use.
- Use by certified inspection mechanics when test-driving customer vehicles.
Violating these restrictions can result in a citation for driving without an ignition interlock device, possible extension of the interlock period, license recall, fines, and even jail time under 75 Pa.C.S. § 3808.
How to Complete Form DL-3805 Step by Step
The form must be completed by the employer. Here is a breakdown of each section based on the official instructions:
- Section A – Driver Information: Type or print the employee’s name, address, and driver’s license number exactly as they appear on the Pennsylvania driver’s license.
- Section B – Employer Information: Provide the full business name, address, supervisor’s name and title, and the immediate supervisor’s telephone number.
- Section C – Vehicle Information: List the year, make, model, and license plate number (with state) of every employer-owned vehicle the driver may operate for work.
- Section D – Work/Driving Schedule: Clearly explain how the driver’s position requires operation of a company vehicle. Include the territory or geographic area, work days, and work hours.
- Section E – Notarization: An officer of the company or the immediate supervisor must sign the form in the presence of a notary public. The notary must complete the acknowledgment.
The form must be completed in its entirety. Incomplete forms are not valid.
Important Requirements While Using the Exemption
Once the form is properly completed and notarized:
- The driver must keep the original completed DL-3805 in their possession at all times while operating the employer-owned vehicle.
- Law enforcement officers can request to see the form. Failure to produce a completed affidavit can result in a citation for driving without an ignition interlock.
- The exemption is valid only for employment purposes. Any personal use of the employer vehicle voids the exemption.
Where to Obtain Form DL-3805?
You can download the official current version of Form DL-3805 directly from PennDOT:
Download Official PennDOT Form DL-3805 PDF
The form is also available through:
- Approved ignition interlock vendors
- Messenger services
- By calling PennDOT at 717-412-5300
- PennDOT’s Forms and Publications page on the official Driver and Vehicle Services website
Related PennDOT Resources
For complete information on Pennsylvania’s Ignition Interlock program, review these official resources:
- PennDOT Ignition Interlock Fact Sheet (July 2025)
- PennDOT Ignition Interlock FAQs
- 75 Pa.C.S. § 3805 – Ignition Interlock Statute
- Pennsylvania DUI Association – Approved Ignition Interlock Vendors
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the employer need to install an interlock device on company vehicles?
No. When a valid DL-3805 is in the driver’s possession, the employer-owned vehicle does not need an interlock device for work-related driving only.
Can I use the form for personal errands in the company vehicle?
No. Personal use is strictly prohibited and voids the exemption.
What happens if I am stopped without the form?
You can be cited for driving a vehicle not equipped with a required ignition interlock device. This can lead to additional penalties, including extension of your interlock period.
Is the form permanent?
The form remains valid as long as the employment situation and vehicle information remain accurate. Significant changes (new vehicles, job duties, or employer) generally require a new affidavit.
Final Tips for Pennsylvania Drivers
Always use the official PennDOT version of Form DL-3805. Keep a copy for your records and ensure the original stays in the vehicle when you drive for work. If your employment situation changes or you have questions about your specific case, contact PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services at 717-412-5300 or consult a Pennsylvania attorney experienced in DUI and licensing matters.
Staying compliant with Pennsylvania’s ignition interlock laws helps protect your driving privileges and keeps you on the road for work while meeting all legal requirements.