Completing the terms of your sentence is critical to getting your license back
Driver License Plastic Card Isolated on White Background
California doesn’t mess around when it comes to drinking and driving. In addition to potentially going to jail for the crime, you will lose your license if you are convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs. In fact, just being arrested for a DUI will trigger an administrative suspension of your California driver’s license, which is where the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will automatically suspend your license unless you or your Riverside DUI defense attorney requests a hearing within 10 days and successfully contests the suspension.
There are many reasons why your driver’s license can be suspended under California law. This includes receiving a DUI conviction or failing to take a blood or breath test after being arrested for a DUI. California law contains what is known as “implied consent,” where you essentially agree to provide a breath or blood sample if you are arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. If you don’t, then your license can be suspended by the DMV for one year, and you will not be eligible for a restricted license during that time. Importantly, this only applies to breath and blood tests after you are arrested. Unless you are under the age of 21 or currently on DUI probation, you are not required to submit to roadside breathalyzer tests, known as preliminary alcohol screenings, or PAS.
If your license has been suspended as a result of a DUI conviction, then a Riverside DUI defense attorney can work with you to help you understand what you will need to do in order to have it reinstated. Once you are convicted — either through a plea deal or a trial — then the court will send proof of the conviction to the DMV. The DMV will then suspend your license for a set period of time (for example, 6 months for a first offense). Before you can have your driving privileges reinstated, you will have to complete three steps:
- Complete Mandatory DUI School, in accordance with your sentence. These classes typically are from 3 to 6 months for a first-time DUI, depending on your level of intoxication at the time of arrest.
- File Proof of Financial Responsibility with the DMV. This is usually done as SR-22 insurance, which is a policy sent to the DMV by your insurance company; it is typically more expensive than other types of insurance. You may also file a Form REG 256, Statement of Facts or Form REG 5085, Notification of Alternative Forms of Financial Responsibility.
- Pay the DMV a License Reissue Fee, which typically ranges from $100 to $150.
Getting a DUI conviction can be costly — both in terms of the immediate punishment and the long-term effects. That is why it is so vital to have a seasoned Riverside DUI defense attorney to represent you if you have been charged with a DUI in California.
At the Chambers Law Firm, our attorneys help people who have been charged with DUIs in Riverside and the surrounding areas. We work with you to put forth the best defense, and will zealously represent you to protect your rights. Contact us today at 714-760-4088 or dchambers@clfca.com to schedule a free initial consultation.
