DUI Laws and Penalties in California

California Drunk Driving Laws Explained in Easy-to-Understand Simple Terms

Overview of DUI Laws in California

California’s DUI (Driving Under the Influence) laws are designed to penalize those who operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. The laws are complex and encompass various aspects, including blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits, penalties, and specific regulations for different drivers.

Table of Contents

There is a lot of information to cover when it comes to a DUI offense in California, so we have provided you with a quick-reference table of contents so you can jump to the section you need more information on or read through the entire page.

Penalties for a First Offense DUI in California

The penalties for a first DUI offense in California encompass a mix of criminal and administrative consequences, reflecting the state’s serious stance on impaired driving. Below is a detailed breakdown of what an individual might expect if convicted:

Criminal Penalties
  • Jail Time: A first DUI offense can lead to jail time ranging from 2 days to 6 months. The actual time served may depend on various factors, including the case’s specifics and whether the court grants probation instead of jail time.
  • Fines: The fine for a first DUI conviction is between $390 and $1,000. However, with penalty assessments, the total cost can significantly increase, potentially reaching several thousand dollars.
  • Probation: Typically, first-time offenders are placed on probation for 3 to 5 years. During this time, they must adhere to specific conditions, such as not driving with any measurable amount of alcohol in their system and submitting to roadside tests if law enforcement requests.
  • License Suspension: The court is likely to suspend the offender’s driver’s license for six months, although certain circumstances might allow for the periods of administrative and criminal suspension to overlap, affecting the total duration of suspension.
Administrative Penalties by the DMV
  • Automatic License Suspension: If arrested and chemical testing shows a BAC of .08% or higher, or if the test is refused, the driver’s license is automatically suspended. The suspension is four months for failing the BAC test.
  • Restricted License: After a “hard suspension” period of 30 days, first offenders may be eligible for a restricted license, which allows limited driving privileges (to, from, and for work and DUI program). Eligibility requirements include enrollment in a DUI program, submission of an SR-22 form, and a license reissue fee.
  • Ignition Interlock Device (IID): First offenders might opt for a 12-month restricted license requiring an IID or face a mandatory six-month IID requirement after license reinstatement. Costs for installation and maintenance of the IID are borne by the offender.
Additional Considerations
  • DUI Programs: Enrollment in an educational DUI program is mandatory, with durations ranging from three to nine months and costs varying between $600 to $1,200 based on BAC levels and other case specifics.
  • Insurance Premiums: Conviction will likely result in increased car insurance premiums.
  • Victim Impact Panel Attendance: In some cases, attendance at a victim impact panel may be required, emphasizing the potential consequences of DUI on others.

Back to top

Penalties for a Second Offense DUI in California


In California, the penalties for a second DUI offense within ten years are quite severe and include:

  • Misdemeanor Probation: Typically ranges from 3 to 5 years.
  • Fines: The base fine ranges from $390 to $1,000, but with penalty assessments, the total can increase significantly, potentially nearing or exceeding $2,000.
  • Jail Time: The law requires a minimum of 96 hours in county jail, with a possible maximum of up to one year.
  • DUI School: Convicted individuals must attend an 18-30 month DUI education program (SB38).
  • License Suspension: A criminal court may suspend a driver’s license for two years for a second-offense DUI.
  • Other Penalties: Additional penalties can include installing an ignition interlock device (IID) on the offender’s vehicle, impounding the vehicle, and restitution to any victims, if applicable.

These penalties can vary based on the specific details of the offense and the discretion of the court.

Back to top

Penalties for a Third Offense DUI in California

The penalties for a third DUI offense within ten years in California are even more severe, reflecting the state’s intent to deter repeat offenses. Here’s what one can expect:

  • Jail Time: The minimum jail time for a third offense is 120 days, which can go up to 1 year. Sometimes, a judge might opt for a longer probation period instead of the minimum jail time.
  • Fines: The fines for a third DUI are similar to those for a second offense, ranging from $390 to $1,000. However, after adding penalty assessments and other court costs, the total can easily exceed $2,000.
  • License Suspension: A third DUI offense can lead to a 3-year revocation of the driver’s license.
  • DUI School: Offenders are required to complete a 30-month DUI education program.
  • Ignition Interlock Device (IID): The installation of an IID for up to three years might be mandated, allowing the individual to regain some driving privileges under certain conditions.
  • Probation: Formal three to five years probation can be expected, along with the conditions mentioned above.

Additional penalties may include impoundment of the vehicle, community service, and mandatory attendance in alcohol or drug rehabilitation programs, depending on the circumstances of the offense and the discretion of the court.

Back to top

Penalties for an Underage DUI in California


In California, the penalties for underage DUI (for drivers under the age of 21) are strict, reflecting the state’s zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. Here are the key penalties and consequences for an underage DUI offense:

  • Zero Tolerance Law: California enforces a zero-tolerance law for drivers under 21 who have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.01% or higher. Violating this law can result in a 1-year suspension of the driver’s license.
  • Underage DUI Penalties: If an underage driver is convicted of DUI with a BAC of 0.05% or higher (but less than 0.08%), they may face penalties similar to those of an adult DUI, including fines, mandatory DUI school, and a possible suspension of their driver’s license.
  • DUI with a BAC of 0.08% or Higher: Underage drivers with a BAC of 0.08% or higher can be charged under standard DUI laws and face the same penalties as adults. These include fines, jail time, DUI school, and a longer license suspension.
  • Other Consequences: Additional consequences may include the requirement to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on any vehicle the underage individual operates, community service, and potentially increased insurance rates or the need for SR-22 insurance.
  • Vehicle Code 23136: This is California’s “Zero Tolerance” law for underage drinking and driving. A violation results in a 1-year suspension of the driver’s license. If the individual does not have a driver’s license, the issuance of one will be delayed for a year.
  • Vehicle Code 23140: This code applies to underage drivers with a BAC between 0.05% and 0.07%. It is considered an infraction and can lead to a 1-year license suspension, a fine, and a mandatory alcohol education program.

The specific penalties can vary based on the circumstances of the offense and any prior convictions. California’s approach aims to deter underage drinking and driving through these strict penalties and educational requirements.

Back to top

California CDL DUI Penalties

In California, holding a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) comes with stricter DUI regulations and penalties, reflecting the higher safety standards expected of commercial vehicle drivers. The penalties for a DUI while holding a CDL in California are more severe than for standard drivers, emphasizing the critical responsibility of operating commercial vehicles. Here are the key penalties and considerations:

BAC Limits and Offenses
  • Lower BAC Limit: For CDL holders operating a commercial vehicle, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.04%, lower than the standard 0.08% for non-commercial drivers.
  • Off-Duty DUI: CDL holders can also face penalties for DUI offenses committed while driving non-commercial vehicles, with the standard 0.08% BAC limit applying.
Penalties for First Offense
  • License Suspension: A first DUI offense results in a minimum one-year suspension of the commercial driver’s license. This applies whether the DUI was committed in a commercial or non-commercial vehicle.
  • Employment Impact: The suspension of a CDL can significantly affect the individual’s employment, as they will not be able to perform driving duties during this period.
  • Additional Penalties: Similar to non-commercial DUI penalties, CDL holders may also face fines, jail time, mandatory DUI programs, and the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) depending on the specific circumstances of their case and whether they were driving a commercial vehicle at the time of the offense.
Penalties for Second and Subsequent Offenses
  • Lifetime Disqualification: A second DUI offense results in a lifetime disqualification of the commercial driver’s license, which can be a career-ending penalty for commercial drivers. This disqualification applies regardless of whether the DUI offenses were committed in a commercial or non-commercial vehicle.
  • Reinstatement Possibility: In some cases, after 10 years, an individual may apply for reinstatement of their CDL, but this process is rigorous and not guaranteed.
Additional Considerations
  • Zero Tolerance for Controlled Substances: Commercial drivers are also subject to zero tolerance for driving under the influence of controlled substances, with similar penalties to alcohol-related DUIs.
  • Impact on Standard Driver’s License: Actions taken against a CDL for DUI offenses may also affect the individual’s standard driving privileges, including suspensions and the requirement of an IID.

Given the severity of these penalties and their potential to end a professional driving career, CDL holders are strongly encouraged to adhere to DUI laws and maintain a high standard of driving behavior.

Back to top

Aggravated DUI Circumstances

Aggravated DUI (Driving Under the Influence) circumstances in California can elevate the severity of DUI charges, leading to harsher penalties. These aggravating factors are considered more serious due to the increased risk they pose to public safety. Here are some common circumstances that can lead to an aggravated DUI charge in California:

  • High Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC): California law sets general legal BAC limits at 0.08% for drivers 21 and over operating regular passenger vehicles, 0.04% for commercial drivers, and 0.01% for drivers under 21. However, if a driver’s BAC is significantly higher than the legal limit (e.g., 0.15% or more), this can be considered an aggravating factor.
  • Reckless Driving: If the DUI incident involved reckless driving behavior, such as excessive speeding or causing an accident, this could lead to aggravated charges.
  • Refusal to Submit to Chemical Testing: Refusing to take a breathalyzer or blood test when suspected of DUI can result in enhanced penalties under California’s implied consent laws.
  • Having a Minor in the Vehicle: Driving under the influence with a passenger under 14 years of age in the vehicle can lead to additional charges and penalties.
  • Prior DUI Convictions: Having previous DUI convictions, especially within a 10-year period, can significantly increase the severity of the penalties for a new DUI offense.
  • Causing Injury or Death: If the DUI incident resulted in an accident that caused injury or death to another person, this could lead to felony DUI charges with severe penalties, including prison time.
  • Driving with a Suspended or Revoked License: DUI charges can be more severe if the driver was operating the vehicle with a suspended or revoked license due to a prior DUI or other reasons.

The specific penalties and consequences for an aggravated DUI in California can vary widely depending on the particular circumstances of the case and the driver’s history. They can include longer jail sentences, higher fines, longer license suspension periods, mandatory DUI education programs, and the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on the driver’s vehicle. Given the complexity of DUI laws and the serious nature of aggravated DUI charges, legal representation is strongly advised for anyone facing these charges in California.

Back to top

Additional Consequences

Beyond the immediate legal penalties for a DUI conviction in California, such as fines, license suspension, and possible jail time, there are several additional consequences that can impact various aspects of an individual’s life. These broader repercussions reflect the serious approach California takes toward driving under the influence and aim to deter such behavior due to its potential risk to public safety. Here are some of the key additional consequences that individuals convicted of a DUI in California may face:

  • Criminal Record: A DUI conviction will result in a criminal record, which can affect future employment opportunities, especially in industries that require driving or are particularly sensitive to criminal backgrounds.
  • Insurance Rates: Auto insurance rates are likely to increase significantly after a DUI conviction. Insurance companies may classify individuals with a DUI as “high-risk” drivers, leading to higher premiums or even difficulty in obtaining insurance.
  • Employment Impact: Certain professions, particularly those requiring a clean driving record or involving transportation, may be off-limits after a DUI conviction. This can include jobs as commercial drivers, delivery personnel, and some government positions. Additionally, existing employers may have policies that allow for termination upon a DUI conviction.
  • Educational Consequences: College students may face disciplinary actions from their institutions, including suspension or expulsion. A DUI can also affect eligibility for certain scholarships and participation in collegiate activities.
  • Professional Licenses: Individuals in professions that require licensing by state boards (such as lawyers, doctors, nurses, and teachers) may face additional scrutiny, sanctions, or even revocation of their professional licenses following a DUI conviction.
  • Travel Restrictions: Some countries, notably Canada, may deny entry to individuals with a DUI conviction. This can affect both personal and professional travel plans.
  • Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Requirements: California may require drivers convicted of DUI to install an IID on their vehicles, which prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected in the driver’s breath. This requirement comes with associated costs for installation, maintenance, and calibration.
  • Restitution and Civil Liability: If the DUI incident involved an accident, the convicted individual might be required to pay restitution to the victims for damages or injuries caused. Additionally, they may face civil lawsuits for further damages.
  • Impact on Child Custody and Visitation: A DUI conviction could potentially impact custody and visitation rights in family court, as it may raise concerns about a parent’s ability to safely care for their child.
  • Loss of Firearm Rights: In cases where the DUI is charged as a felony (for example, if someone was injured or it’s a repeat offense), the individual could lose the right to own or possess firearms in California.

These consequences highlight the importance of seeking legal advice if facing DUI charges in California. The long-term impact of a DUI conviction can extend far beyond the initial legal penalties, affecting nearly all aspects of an individual’s life.

Back to top

DUI Classes


In California, individuals convicted of DUI (Driving Under the Influence) are often required to complete a DUI education program as part of their sentence. These programs are designed to reduce the likelihood of future DUI offenses by educating offenders on the risks of alcohol and drug abuse, and teaching them strategies for avoiding impaired driving. The specific program an individual is required to attend depends on various factors, including the severity of the offense, the individual’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of arrest, and whether they have previous DUI convictions.

Types of DUI Education Programs in California

1. Wet Reckless Program (SB 1176): For individuals convicted of alcohol-related reckless driving (sometimes called “wet reckless”), this program lasts 12 hours and is the shortest DUI program available.
2. First Offender Program: There are variations depending on the county and the specific circumstances of the DUI offense:
  • AB 541: The standard program for first-time DUI offenders, requiring at least 30 hours of program activities over 3 months. This includes education, group counseling, and individual interviews.
  • AB 762: A longer version for certain first-time offenders, requiring 45 hours of activities over 6 months.
  • AB 1353: An even longer version for first-time offenders, involving 60 hours of activities over 9 months.
3. Second Offender Program (SB 38): This program lasts at least 18 months and includes education, group sessions, individual counseling, and regular interviews for individuals with a second DUI conviction within 10 years. Participants are also required to complete a community reentry monitoring phase.
4. Third and Multiple Offender Program (SB 1365): This 30-month program is for individuals with three or more DUI convictions within 10 years. It includes similar components to the second-offender program but with a longer duration and more intensive supervision.

Completing a DUI education program is often a requirement for reinstating a suspended driver’s license in California. Failure to complete the program as ordered by the court can result in additional penalties, including extended license suspension and possible jail time. It’s important for individuals convicted of DUI to take these programs seriously and view them as an opportunity to learn and adopt safer driving habits.

Back to top

Ignition Interlock Requirements

In California, the requirements for installing an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) largely depend on the specifics of a DUI offense. The Statewide Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Pilot Program, which runs from January 1, 2019, through December 31, 2025, mandates the installation of an IID for certain DUI offenders, with specific requirements varying based on the nature of the offense and the offender’s history​ (DMV_CA_GOV)​.

An IID is a device roughly the size of a cell phone that’s connected to your vehicle’s ignition system. It requires a breath sample before the vehicle can start. If alcohol is detected in the breath sample, the vehicle will not start. Additionally, periodic breath samples are required during the drive to ensure the absence of alcohol​ (DMV_CA_GOV)​.

Key points include:

  • DUI offenders with violations involving alcohol are typically required to install an IID for a specified period.
  • Certain exemptions apply, such as first-time offenders without injury or those whose violation included only drugs (no alcohol).
  • Courts have the authority to order IID installation, with the duration varying based on the offense and whether injury was involved.
  • Offenders may be eligible for reduced IID installation and monitoring fees based on income.
  • Compliance with IID requirements includes regular calibration and inspection at intervals not exceeding 60 days, and any violations or noncompliance can affect driving privileges.

Senate Bill 1046, effective January 1, 2019, requires IIDs for all DUI cases in California. This allows those with a license suspension under the Administrative Per Se law to have restricted driving privileges with an IID and to receive credit toward a required IID restriction period if they are later convicted of a DUI. Individuals arrested for DUI can avoid a 30-day hard suspension by applying immediately for an IID through the California DMV​ (Smart Start)​.

For further details and specific inquiries, it’s advisable to consult directly with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or a legal professional specializing in DUI cases.

Back to top

California Implied Consent Law

California’s implied consent law mandates that any driver lawfully arrested for DUI must submit to a chemical test (such as breath or blood tests) to determine their blood alcohol concentration (BAC). If a driver refuses to undergo these tests following a lawful DUI arrest, they face specific penalties, including increased DUI penalties and a mandatory driver’s license revocation by the DMV, which occurs regardless of the DUI case outcome​ (Shouse Law Group)​.

The law, however, mainly applies to breath and blood tests after a lawful DUI arrest, implying that drivers can refuse to take a roadside breath test (PAS) before an arrest without penalty, except if they are under 21 or on probation for a prior DUI conviction​ (Shouse Law Group)​. It’s also critical to understand that while refusal to take a PAS test cannot be used as guilt evidence if the individual is at least 21 and not on DUI probation, agreeing to a PAS test can lead to its results being used against the individual in a DUI conviction​ (Shouse Law Group)​.

Penalties for refusing a chemical test after a DUI arrest can lead to administrative license suspension for a year and potential enhanced penalties in addition to the standard DUI penalties if convicted. This might include additional jail time and extended DUI education programs​ (Shouse Law Group)​.

The legal basis for implied consent is found within the California Vehicle Code (CVC) through Sections 23610 and 23612, which outline the responsibilities of law enforcement in notifying drivers of this law and the consequences of refusing to undergo testing​ (Manshoory Law Group, APC)​.

Lastly, the law applies to every driver in the state, including minors, but it is only activated when a person has been lawfully arrested for DUI. Officers must inform the driver that failure to submit to or complete a chemical test will result in additional fines and mandatory imprisonment if the driver is later convicted of DUI, along with administrative penalties such as driver’s license suspension imposed by the DMV​ (The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman)​.

Understanding your rights and obligations under California’s implied consent law can significantly impact the outcome of a DUI stop and subsequent legal proceedings.

Back to top

Driver License Hearings

Following a DUI arrest in California, you can request a Driver Safety Administrative Hearing from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to challenge the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. This hearing is separate from any criminal court proceedings and focuses solely on your driving privileges.

The process is initiated when the DMV takes action against your license. You must request the hearing within 10 days of receiving notice or within 14 days if the notice was mailed. Failure to request within this timeframe automatically forfeits your hearing rights. The hearings are conducted by a Driver Safety (DS) Hearing Officer, and the standards for evidence are more lenient than in criminal courts​ (DMV_CA_GOV)​.

During the DMV hearing process, you can present evidence, testify on your behalf, cross-examine DMV witnesses, subpoena witnesses and documents, and introduce evidence supporting your case. If you need, you can have an attorney or another representative present at your own expense. Also, you have the right to an interpreter if required​ (DMV_CA_GOV)​.

The outcome of these hearings can range from the DMV sustaining (keeping) the action against your driving privilege to setting aside (dismissing) it, ending it, or modifying it. However, the hearing officer cannot change this duration if the Vehicle Code specifies a period for the action against your driving privilege​ (DMV_CA_GOV)​.

Moreover, California’s Administrative Per Se (APS) law mandates immediate suspension for drivers suspected of operating a vehicle with a BAC of .08% or higher. The suspension is mandatory unless reversed at a special administrative hearing. This suspension begins immediately upon arrest based on an officer’s observation, even before blood alcohol concentration is confirmed. To challenge the suspension, the accused driver must request an APS Hearing within the first 10 calendar days following the arrest ​ (California DMV Hearings)​.

This process underscores the importance of timely action and thorough preparation for the hearing, potentially with professional representation to navigate the complex and challenging aspects of DMV procedures and laws.

Back to top

DUI Lawyers

Deciding whether you need a DUI lawyer in California depends on various factors, including the specifics of your case and the potential consequences you’re facing. While you may technically navigate the DUI charge process without an attorney, especially in straightforward cases where the evidence against you is overwhelming, the advantages of hiring a DUI lawyer are significant.

A DUI charge can result in serious penalties such as jail time, fines, license suspension, and mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device. Lawyers are experienced in negotiating with prosecutors for plea bargains, which might result in reduced charges or lighter sentences. They can also guide you through the DMV hearing process, which is crucial for defending your driving privileges. Moreover, an attorney can help identify flaws in the prosecution’s case, such as the legality of the traffic stop or the accuracy of the BAC testing, potentially leading to dismissed or reduced charges.

In California, you have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a DMV hearing, which is a critical step to challenge a license suspension. A public defender can represent you in criminal court but won’t assist in the DMV hearing, highlighting the importance of hiring a DUI lawyer to handle both aspects of your case. An experienced lawyer can also ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process, offer advice on the best course of action, and potentially mitigate the long-term consequences of a DUI conviction.

Given the complexity of DUI laws and the significant impact a DUI conviction can have on your life, consulting with a DUI lawyer is generally advised. They provide the expertise needed to navigate the legal system, improve the outcome of your case, and protect your future.

For more detailed insights, refer to the information provided by FindLaw​ (Findlaw)​, Bruzzo Law​ (bruzzolaw.com)​, and Moody Lawyer​ (Moody Lawyer)​.

Back to top

Additional California DUI Resources