Vehicle impoundment after a Los Angeles DUI is a common but often confusing consequence following an arrest for driving under the influence. If your vehicle was towed at the time of your arrest, you may be facing high fees, a mandatory holding period, or other complications that make it difficult to get your car back quickly.
Understanding how impoundment works in DUI cases can help you take action early and avoid unnecessary costs or penalties. Los Angeles DUI lawyer can connect you with a lawyer who knows how to challenge extended holds and request early release can be a key step in resolving your situation and protecting your rights.
Why Vehicles Are Impounded After a DUI Arrest
In most Los Angeles DUI arrests, police arrange for your car to be towed from the scene. This is standard procedure when:
- You are taken into custody and are unable to legally drive the vehicle.
- There is no sober, licensed person available to take possession of the car.
- The officer suspects the vehicle itself was involved in an additional offense (such as being unregistered or uninsured).
In some cases, the car may be released within a few days. But in others, especially where aggravating factors are present, law enforcement may place the vehicle on a 30-day hold.
How Long Can a Vehicle Be Impounded?
Most vehicles impounded after a DUI in Los Angeles are held for one of two time periods, as noted in California’s vehicle towing and release policy:
- Short-term impound (1–3 days): This is typical for first-time DUI cases with no aggravating factors. The car may be released as soon as the necessary paperwork is presented and fees are paid.
- 30–day impound hold: This may apply if you have a prior DUI on your record, were driving on a suspended license, or refused a chemical test. It can also happen when officers believe the driver poses a continued threat to public safety.
Once the hold period ends, you must retrieve the vehicle quickly to avoid additional storage fees.
What You’ll Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle
To get your car back from a Los Angeles impound lot, you’ll need to show:
- Valid photo ID: A driver’s license, state ID, or other government-issued ID.
- Proof of vehicle ownership: This can include registration or title documents.
- Proof of insurance: The impound lot will not release the vehicle without this.
- Payment for fees: Be prepared to cover the towing cost, daily storage fees, and administrative charges.
If your license is suspended or revoked, you may need someone else with a valid license to retrieve the vehicle for you.
Common Impound Locations in Los Angeles
Depending on which agency handled your arrest, your vehicle may be stored at a variety of impound facilities throughout the city.
- Official LAPD Tow Yard: Used for most arrests within city limits. You can call LAPD Tow at (213) 485-4184 to confirm the location.
- Private tow yards contracted by LAPD: These vary based on your arrest location. The tow slip or arrest paperwork will include details.
- Sheriff or CHP impound lots: If your DUI occurred on the freeway or in an unincorporated area, the California Highway Patrol or L.A. County Sheriff may handle the tow.
It’s best to confirm the location as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary storage fees.
How a DUI Attorney May Be Able to Help
If your vehicle is being held for 30 days, an attorney may be able to petition for early release. Our team works with DUI attorneys who understand the procedures specific to Los Angeles law enforcement agencies and courts.
An attorney may help by:
- Filing a motion for early release: This is often based on financial hardship or lack of prior DUI offenses.
- Challenging the legality of the impound: If the arrest or tow was unlawful, the vehicle may need to be released without penalty.
- Advising on DMV and court deadlines: Missing a deadline can affect both your ability to get your car and your overall DUI case.
The sooner you take action, the more options you’ll have.
What If You Don’t Retrieve the Vehicle?
Leaving your vehicle in impound for too long can lead to additional problems, including:
- Daily storage fees: These add up quickly and may exceed the car’s value over time.
- Lien or auction: After a certain period, the lot may place a lien on your vehicle and eventually sell it at auction.
- License implications: In some cases, unresolved vehicle impounds can complicate your DMV status or ability to reinstate your license.
If you’re unsure how to move forward, connecting with a DUI attorney early can help you avoid losing the vehicle entirely.
Responding to Vehicle Impoundment After a Los Angeles DUI
Vehicle impoundment after a Los Angeles DUI adds a costly and stressful layer to an already serious situation. Acting quickly, gathering the right documents, and understanding your legal options can make a big difference.
We work with people facing DUI-related impoundment and help them get connected with attorneys who understand how to push for early vehicle release and minimize long-term consequences. If your car is being held—or if you’re unsure what steps to take next—there may be more options than you think.
Don’t wait until fees pile up or your vehicle is lost to auction. Early action gives you the best chance to recover your car and move forward with your case.
