What Happens After a California DUI Arrest
Two Separate Tracks Start Immediately
When you’re arrested for DUI in California, two separate processes kick off at the same time:
- Criminal court case — handled by the DA, goes through the court system
- DMV administrative action — runs independently of the criminal case, and moves fast
The DMV track catches a lot of people off guard. You have 10 days from your arrest to request a DMV hearing. If you don’t, your license suspension happens automatically — no hearing, no appeal window, just gone.
First-Time DUI Penalties (Misdemeanor)
Assuming no injuries, no refusal, and a standard BAC — here’s what a typical first offense looks like:
| What | Details |
|---|---|
| Probation | 3–5 years |
| Fines | $390–$1,000 base, but realistically $1,500–$3,000+ after penalties |
| License suspension | ~6 months (varies by BAC/refusal) |
| DUI school | 3 to 9 months |
| Ignition Interlock Device (IID) | Often required |
| Jail | Up to 6 months possible — many first-timers avoid actual jail time |
When It Gets Worse
You don’t get the standard package if any of these apply:
- High BAC (0.15%+) — longer DUI program, stricter penalties
- Refused breath/blood test — automatic longer license suspension
- Accident or injury involved — can become a felony
- Child in the car — sentencing enhancement
- Prior DUIs within 10 years — dramatically harsher, including mandatory jail
More information coming soon. This page will be updated as the guide expands.