Can I Get My License Back Early After a DUI Suspension in California?

California is known for its beautiful beaches, Hollywood stars, and painful traffic. Driving is crucial for most individuals across the country, especially in California. When you are convicted of a DUI you will generally have your license suspended for a period. If you lost your driving privileges after a DUI you may wonder if you can get your license back early or if you have to let the entire suspension period pass. Read on and work with a Tehama County DUI lawyer for more information and representation during your intoxicated driving case.

How Long Will My License Be Suspended For a DUI in CA?

Under California state law, the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) is required to suspend or revoke the driving privileges of any individual who is arrested for a DUI with a BAC over .08 or who refuses to submit to chemical testing.

For a person over the age of 21 who is arrested for a first-offense DUI, they will receive a four-month license suspension. The four-month suspension is only for an arrest. Once you are convicted of a DUI, the DMV will suspend your driving privileges for 6 to 10 months. However, if your BAC was .20 or greater, the court may impose an increased license suspension and require the DMV to impose the maximum 10-month suspension, as well as subject you to a 9-month DUI program.

Can I Get My License Back Early?

Individuals who have their license suspended after a DUI often wonder what the chances are for them to get their license back early. Unfortunately for them, in California, there is no possibility of reinstating your license before the suspension period has elapsed. If you were given a 6-month suspension, 6 months must pass before you can get your license back.

How Can I Get My License Back?

After a DUI in California, you must take several steps to have your license reinstated. Consider the following.

1. Complete the full suspension period: Let the entirety of your suspension period pass before attempting to reinstate your license. Any attempts before the time has expired will be rejected.
2. Serve your entire sentence and penalties: Make sure you have completed all penalties associated with your conviction. Serve your jail sentence if applicable, pay all required fines, have an ignition interlock device installed, complete any mandatory community service, pay surcharges, etc.
3. Complete DUI school: You can have mandatory DUI school ranging from 3 to 30 months. Make sure you finish the program in its entirety.
4. Get insurance: Individuals with a DUI conviction in California are required to purchase a Form SR-22 as additional auto insurance.
5. Apply: Apply for reinstatement online or at your local DMV. Pay all required fees.

Once you have completed the above steps you will receive notice when your license is reinstated. Then, you can get back on the road. It is important that you take the required steps to get your license back after a DUI conviction so work with a skilled legal professional for advice and representation during this time.