Drivers in Los Angeles can get a temporary license after an arrest for driving under the influence (DUI) in California. How long does this kind of temporary license last in California? Generally, a temporary license issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will last for 30 days from the time of a driver’s arrest.
After 30 days, the DMV can choose to suspend an individual’s driver’s license. The DMV can also offer a driver a restricted license. Find out more about these repercussions for a DUI arrest in California with this article. To speak with a lawyer today about your charges, you can call us at (310) 896-2724.
Learn More About DUI Arrests and Temporary Licenses
Many drivers are not sure what to expect after a DUI arrest in Los Angeles. During this arrest, a police officer may issue a driver a ticket. Police officers will also take your driver’s license. They can provide you with a temporary license in return.
This temporary license will be printed on a sheet of paper. It allows you to legally continue to operate your vehicle for 30 days after your arrest. After 30 days, your temporary license will no longer be considered valid.
Note that police officers do not always provide a temporary license after a DUI arrest. In some cases, you have to wait for the DMV to mail you one of these licenses. The license will still only be good for 30 days from the time of your arrest.
Restricted Licenses and DUI Convictions in California
After a DUI conviction, you can take steps to get a “restricted” license in California. A restricted license allows you to drive as long as you obey certain regulations from the court system. Generally, obtaining a restricted license requires you to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle.
An IID is a special kind of breathalyzer. It attaches to the steering column of your vehicle. An IID measures a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) levels. Drivers have to use this device each time they turn on their car. An IID prevents you from starting your vehicle if your BAC is elevated.
Obtaining an IID-restricted license allows you to keep driving after a DUI conviction in California. However, some drivers refuse to install an IID. In this case, the DMV can suspend your license after a conviction. Find out more with a Los Angeles DUI lawyer. Just call (310) 896-2724 to get more information right away.
Timeline for Using an IID-Restricted License
Drivers have to use an IID for a set period of time after a DUI conviction in California. First-time DUI convictions can lead to six months of time driving with an IID. However, this period of time does not always remain constant. Drivers have to use an IID for longer if they are convicted of subsequent DUIs. For example:
- Drivers with two DUI convictions use an IID for one year
- Drivers with three DUI convictions use an IID for two years
Drivers must use an IID-restricted license for the entire time they have an IID installed in their car. This means you may need a restricted license for up to two years after a DUI conviction. You can also face other penalties after a DUI arrest.
The DMV and License Suspensions for a DUI Arrest
You should know that the DMV has the right to suspend your license after a DUI arrest in California. The DMV can take this step even before you are convicted of a DUI. The DMV can automatically carry out this suspension 30 days after your arrest.
Note that you can take steps to prevent this automatic suspension. You can request a DMV hearing within 10 days of your arrest. At this hearing, a DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can focus on helping you protect your driving rights.
Your lawyer can also help you with any criminal charges you are facing for DUI charges. Our team can:
- Investigate your charges
- Help you during police questions
- Work to get your charges reduced
- Stand up for you in court
Don’t wait to get help after a DUI arrest in Los Angeles. Reach out to us for assistance right now.
What You Can Do to Fight Getting a Temporary Restricted License in California
You can fight the charges that would get you a temporary restricted license in California. Just reach out to a Los Angeles DUI lawyer to get more information about fighting your charges. Our team can also help you understand how an IID restricted license might impact your life.
Begin getting legal help today with a free consultation. We’ll deal with all of your legal questions after you complete our online contact form. You can also call us at (310) 896-2724.
