An OLED has a characteristic threshold voltage (V2) above which the OLED is to be considered ON. A method for driving an OLED (20) includes the steps of switching the OLED on and off. According to the invention, a method for driving an OLED (20) includes of avoiding driving the OLED within a voltage range between zero and a predetermined voltage level (Vx) higher than zero, wherein this predetermined voltage level (Vx) may be in the order of said characteristic threshold voltage (V2). As a result, damage to the OLED is prevented or reduced, resulting in increased reliability of the OLED in terms of life time expectancy.