It may be possible for your friend to obtain a conditional license that would allow him to drive to and from work depending upon your state's laws. Some states allow for a conditional license to be acquired when a license is suspended while other states do not allow a probationary or conditional license.

For instance Utah legislators passed a measure in 2007 permits the revocation of the driver's license of people who fall behind in child-support payments. The UT state Office of Recovery Services says it has a hard time enforcing child-support payments so this bill gives parents 90 days to make amends or agree to a payment plan before losing a license. In the meantime they could drive on a conditional license to work, school or for visits with children. Parents who remain in arrears could lose all driving privileges though.

The state of Maryland offers a restricted license that permits a suspended driver to operate a motor vehicle for driving to and from work or school, and during the course of employment. In some cases, the local child support office (if the suspension is for nonpayment of child support) or the MVA will ask the driver’s employer to verify employment in writing.

In the notice of suspension for nonpayment of child support, the MD MVA is required to inform obligors of the availability of work-restricted licenses. Though the MVA may deny applications outright or require a large payment of arrears before approving the application. Some local support offices have imposed additional restrictions such as full-time work or a job that allows for wage garnishment (thereby excluding the self-employed).

While in California, restricted licenses are not available for any of the following violations: failure to appear or pay on a ticket, failure to pay a judgment, and failure to pay child support.

However, California county child support departments may conditionally release a suspended license and monitor future compliance with a child support order. Many of the releases are conditional pending future compliance, assuming the obligor has the ability to meet the court-ordered payment. Failure to comply can lead to an end to the conditional release and a resumption of the suspension.

So as you can see if a conditional or work restricted license is available for your friend really depends upon the state in which he resides. He should be able to find out if any type of license is available to him so that he could drive to and from work and thus be able to pay the back and current child support that is due by contacting his Department of Motor Vehicles.