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California DUI Penalties, Sentencing & Fines

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California DUI Fines, Penalties & Sentencing



First California DUI Offense


California Criminal Status
Non-injury DUIs generally misdemeanors. DUIs that result in bodily injury may be elevated to felony status, depending on the circumstances.

Jail:
48 hours, but not more than 6 months.

California DUI Fines/Costs:
$390-$1,000 plus penalty assessments.

California License Suspension:
4 months suspension; restored after 30 days upon showing of hardship. 1 year suspension if under 21.

Ignition Interlock Device:
Court may order use of interlock device.

Vehicle Impound:
Court may order impoundment.

California DUI School:
Mandatory alcohol education if under 21. Possible first offender school for 3-6 months, depending on BAC level.

California Probation:
3 years informal – no probation officer.

Community Service:
In some courts, you may work off some of your fees/costs by doing community service.



Second California DUI Offense Plus


California Criminal Status:
Non-injury DUIs generally misdemeanors. DUIs that result in bodily injury may be elevated to felony status, depending on the circumstances.

Jail:
90-120 days mandatory jail time, but no more than 1 year.

California DUI Fines/Costs:
$390 to $1,000.

California License Suspension:
1 year suspension.

Vehicle Impound:
Yes. Multiple offender’s vehicle may be seized and disposed.

California DUI School:
18-30 months at a DUI school, depending on whether it’s a 2nd or 3rd violation. CA Dept. of Alcohol and Drug Programs has a list of approved schools.

California Probation:
3-5 years informal probation (no officer to report to), OR formal probation (if third offense or more).

Community Service:
10 days required as alternative to jail time.


Other


Commercial Vehicle:
BAC limit for drivers of commercial vehicles is 0.04.

Under Age:
21

California Open Container Laws:
Yes. Driver/passenger.

How long does a DUI stay on your record?
In California, a DUI remains on your driving record for 7 years, unless there is a failure to appear, then it is 10 years.

Driver Responsibility Tax:
No.
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