What to Do When Getting an Out-of-State DUI in California

A male driver being questioned by an officer, wondering what to do if he gets an out-of-state DUI in California.

Getting arrested for DUI in any situation can be stressful, even more so if you are from another state. To help you feel less stressed and make more informed decisions, we’ve created this guide about the six things you can do if you get an out-of-state DUI in California, which include paying close attention to the DMV deadline and keeping track of paperwork.

If you were arrested while visiting California, speaking with a Los Angeles DUI lawyer can also help you understand your rights and options, such as how California law applies to you and what actions you might need to take to protect your license and record.

1. Learn How California DUI Laws Work

If you were arrested for DUI in California, California law will still apply to your case, regardless of where you live. Being from another state does not change the charges or how the case moves through the system.

Your DUI will be filed in a California court, and you are expected to follow the same rules as a California resident. This can include California fines and penalties, attendance at DUI school programs, and compliance with probation terms if you are convicted.

Understandably, dealing with all this from out of state can be frustrating, but ignoring the case or assuming it will resolve itself can lead to more serious problems down the line.

2. Take Action Early to Potentially Lessen the Consequences You Face in Your Home State

It’s a common mistake to assume that a DUI in California only impacts your ability to drive within that state, but that is not how it works in most cases. California shares DUI information with other states through interstate reporting agreements.

This means that if your DUI is reported, your home state can take its own action against your driver’s license, which could include a court-ordered suspension, restrictions, or other penalties based on your state’s laws.

If you wait until your home state takes action against your license, your options may already be limited, but if you address the California case early, you could have more control over what happens, especially if you work with a DUI lawyer.

3. Pay Close Attention to the DMV Deadline

Another important thing to do when you get an out-of-state DUI arrest in California is to pay very close attention to the DMV deadline. After a DUI arrest, the California DMV can move to suspend your driving privileges regardless of where your license was issued.

In most situations, you have 10 days from the date of arrest to request a Driver Safety Administrative Hearing. If you miss the deadline, the suspension can go into effect automatically.

As an out-of-state driver, it’s easy to overlook this step, especially if you leave California shortly after the arrest, but doing so can have serious consequences. Before you leave the state, make sure you are fully aware of how California laws apply to you. If you have questions or concerns, a DUI attorney can help.

4. Find Out If You Have to Return to California For Court

One of the first questions many out-of-state drivers ask is whether they will have to return to California for a court hearing after a DUI arrest, but the answer can vary from case to case.

Some court appearances can be handled by a lawyer, while others will require you to be there in person. In this case, speaking with a California DUI lawyer who has experience handling these kinds of situations can be incredibly helpful and can save you a lot of time and stress.

5. Keep Track of All Paperwork and Notices

When you get an out-of-state DUI in California, you will likely have to juggle paperwork from multiple agencies, including the court, the DMV, and possibly your home state’s licensing authority. You do not want to lose track of any notices or deadlines, nor do you want to forget to fill out any other necessary paperwork. This can lead to additional penalties and license issues.

Keep copies of everything related to the arrest, including any mail you receive afterward. These documents will be important if you decide to review your options with a lawyer, such as contesting the arrest.

6. Get Legal Guidance Before Making Assumptions

Finally, of all the things you do after getting an out-of-state DUI in CA, speaking with a lawyer is perhaps the most important.

Out-of-state DUI cases are more complicated than any other DUI case. Every decision you make, whether it’s about sobriety testing, DMV hearings, plea options, or even choosing to ignore the case altogether, can have serious, long-term consequences that can affect you in California and your home state.

A lawyer who is familiar with California DUI cases can help you understand how the process will work, what deadlines apply, what options you have, and how the case could affect you once you return home. Having this kind of early guidance and support can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Still Have Questions About What You Should Do If You Get an Out-of-State DUI While In California?

At Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, we have decades of experience helping clients get the dedicated legal support they need. We can connect you with a DUI attorney who can explain how California law applies to out-of-state drivers and help you understand your options.

6 Things to Do if You Get an Out-of-State DUI in CA