How to Get Your Driver's License Back After a California DUI Conviction

 

If your driver’s license revocation or suspension period has ended, it’s time to start the process of getting it reinstated in California. Before you can do so, you must meet all the court-mandated requirements of your conviction, which includes paying court fees and fines, serving any jail time, attending counseling, and completing community service hours. You must also complete a DUI treatment program and file the Notice of Completion certificate. Some people prefer to hire a California DUI lawyer to help them with the administrative process of getting their driver’s license back.

 

What to Do to Get Your California Driver’s License Reinstated

 

Then make an appointment at the DMV where you can pay your reissue fee of $125 and file proof of financial responsibility (California Insurance Proof Certificate, SR 22.) You must also pay any fines to the court that you owe as well. You will also need to file a Notice of Completion Certificate (DL 101) showing that you completed a Driving under the Influence Treatment program.

 

How to Get a Restricted License before Your Mandatory Suspension Period Ends

 

In some cases, you may be eligible to drive before your suspension period is over. With a restricted license, you are only able to drive in specific circumstances, such as to and from work, school, medical appointments, or alcohol treatment. To find out if you are eligible, you can contact the DMV directly or work with a California DUI lawyer. You may need to make a case that you need the restricted license, and an attorney can be a big help in doing so.

 

How to Get a California Insurance Proof Certificate – SR-22

 

In order to get your driver’s license reinstated, you must show proof of financial responsibility. In the state of California, that means filing a SR-22 certificate. In order to qualify for this certificate, you must meet specific insurance coverage requirements. How do you find out how to meet them? Contact your car insurance company. They can adjust your existing policy according or recommend a new policy. Then they can send the DMV the certificate or provide you with a copy. You must keep the insurance for the required amount of time, or your license may be revoked or suspended again.

 

An Aggravated DUI or Multiple DUIs: Special Circumstances

 

In some cases, the process of getting your license back can be more complicated. A license that has been revoked is not automatically reinstated. If you have multiple DUIs on your record or your conviction was for an aggravated DUI, it can be harder to convince the State to allow you to get back behind the wheel. In some cases, you may required to use an ignition interlock device as well. The best way to ensure that you follow the process correctly and make a convincing argument about your ability to drive again is to hire a California DUI attorney to work with you. In order to apply, you’ll need to go to a Department of Motor Vehicles field office.

 

Getting More Information

 

If you have questions about your specific situation, you can see more information on the California DMV website.

 

California Department of Motor Vehicles

Driver License Inquires
Department of Motor Vehicles
P.O. Box 942890
Sacramento, CA 94290-0001
1-800-777-0133
Hearing Impaired: TTY 1-800-368-4327
Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 8 am to 5 pm, and Wednesdays from 9 am to 5 pm
You can locate a California Field Office near you on this map.
 

Or you can get personalized advice from a California DUI lawyer. He or she will understand how the system works and be able to guide you through the process.