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You have 10 DAYS to request a DMV hearing or your license will be automatically suspended.
Updated March 3, 2026
Just Got a DUI in California? Here's What to Do Right Now
QUICK ANSWER
If you just got arrested for DUI in California, you need to act fast. Call the DMV at (800) 777-0133 within 10 days to request a hearing. This is separate from your court case and protects your license while you fight the charges.
Keep reading for the full breakdownThe 10-Day Deadline (Critical)
- →10 days from arrest to request a DMV Admin Per Se hearing
- →Miss it = automatic license suspension, no hearing
- →Call (800) 777-0133 — California DMV Driver Safety
- →Or visit dmv.ca.gov to submit request online
Step 1: Request Your DMV Hearing
- •Call within 10 days of your arrest date
- •This stays (delays) your suspension while the hearing is pending
- •The DMV hearing is completely separate from criminal court
- •You can request an in-person or phone hearing
- •A lawyer can represent you at this hearing
Step 2: Understand Your Paperwork
Pink temporary license
Valid for 30 days from arrest
Court date & location
Your arraignment info
Charges against you
VC 23152(a) and/or (b)
Bail conditions
Any restrictions on you
Step 3: Document Everything
Write down everything you remember while it's fresh:
?Where were you stopped?
?What did the officer say?
?Did you do field sobriety tests?
?Did you take a breathalyzer?
?Were there any witnesses?
?What did you eat/drink and when?
Step 4: Consider a Lawyer
- •California DUI lawyers: $3,000–$10,000 typical
- •Can represent you: at both DMV hearing and court
- •May reduce charges: to 'wet reckless' or dismissal
- •Handle plea negotiations: for best possible outcome
California First DUI Penalties
| Penalty | First Offense |
|---|---|
| Jail | Up to 6 months (rarely served) |
| Fines | $1,500–$2,000+ |
| License suspension | 4–6 months |
| DUI classes | 3–9 months |
| Probation | 3–5 years |
| IID | May be required |
Your Timeline
| When | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Day 1–10 | Request DMV hearing (CRITICAL) |
| Day 30 | Temporary license expires |
| Week 4–6 | Arraignment (first court date) |
| Month 2–4 | DMV hearing |
| Month 2–6 | Case resolution |
What NOT to Do
✗Don't ignore the 10-day DMV deadline
✗Don't talk about your case on social media
✗Don't drive if your license is suspended
✗Don't miss any court dates
✗Don't assume it will just "go away"
California DMV Hearing vs Court
| DMV Hearing | Criminal Court | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | License suspension | Criminal penalties |
| Who decides | DMV hearing officer | Judge |
| Deadline | Request within 10 days | Arraignment in 4–6 weeks |
| Can you win? | Yes, suspension set aside | Yes, charges reduced |