Many make the false assumption that being charged with a DUI for the first time in California will result in a slap on the wrist or a stern warning. However, this is far from the truth, as the penalties for this offense can be intense. Drivers will lose their licenses, among other consequences for this charge. If you are facing a DUI, understanding how long it will take you to get your license back is critical. The following blog explores what you should know about how long your driving privileges will be revoked and what you can do to help regain your license with the help of a DUI lawyer in Sacramento, California.
What Warrants a DUI in California?
In California, anyone discovered driving with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) at or over the legal limit of 0.08% will automatically be charged with a DUI. However, if you are driving a commercial vehicle, the legal limit is lower at 0.04%.
Additionally, you can be charged with a DUI if you have any amount of alcohol in your system and the officer determines it is inhibiting your ability to drive. As such, it’s crucial to understand that this can be a more subjective charge.
How Long Does It Take to Get a License Back After a DUI?
When you are charged with a DUI for the first time in California, your driving privileges will be revoked for four months upon your arrest. You have 30 days from the date of your arrest before the suspension officially takes place. However, upon a conviction, your license will be suspended for at least six months but potentially up to ten months.
It’s important to understand that if you have multiple offenses, the suspension period will increase with each subsequent charge. As such, a second offense warrants a two-year license revocation, and a third is a three-year license suspension.
To fully reinstate your licenses following a DUI conviction, you must serve the entire suspension, submit proof of completion of a DUI course, and obtain SR 22 insurance for three years following the arrest.
Is There Anything Else I Can Do?
If you are facing a DUI charge, ensuring you connect with an experienced attorney is critical. They may be able to help you fight the charges or attend an administrative license hearing to fight the charges. An administrative hearing allows you to fight the charges so long as you request the hearing within ten days of the suspension. As such, you must connect with an attorney immediately following your arrest so they can determine if this hearing is in your best interest based on your circumstances.
When you or a loved one are facing legal troubles, the team at the Law Offices of Dale R. Gomes is ready to help. Connect with us today to learn how we can fight for you when you are facing a DUI charge.