Were you convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in California? Use this article to find out if you need to apply for a restricted license after a DUI conviction in California.
Do I Need To Apply For A Restricted License After A DUI Conviction?
The court system in California used to allow some drivers convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) to apply for a restricted license. However, this requirement was changed drastically in the year 2019, as California adopted a state-wide ignition interlock device (IID) program for DUI cases.
Changes to IID regulations have left many drivers unsure if they need to apply for a restricted license after a DUI conviction. Find out how you can regain your driving privileges after a DUI here with the Simmrin Law Group. Reach out to us at (310) 896-2723 if you have additional questions.
Drivers in California Need an IID-Restricted Driver’s License
Prior to 2019, drivers in California who were convicted of a DUI had to apply for a restricted license. This license allowed drivers to travel to specific locations, such as to and from work, during set hours every day. You no longer need to apply for this kind of restricted license after a DUI conviction.
California set up a new program for drivers convicted of a DUI in 2019. This program requires most drivers convicted of a DUI to install an IID on their vehicle. Drivers with an IID can then acquire an IID-restricted license.
An IID-restricted license allows drivers to operate their vehicles whenever they want and to drive wherever they want to go.
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Steps to Get an IID-Restricted License in California
You can acquire an IID-restricted license in California by following a few steps. Note that the court system or the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will inform you if you are required to get an IID after a DUI conviction. Once told that you need an IID, you will need to:
- Complete any outstanding license suspensions or revocations
- Have an IID installed on your vehicle
- Have installation techs complete a Verification of Installation Ignition Interlock form (DL 920)
- Get SR-22 insurance from your insurance company
Once you have completed the above steps, you will need to present the DMV with:
- Your completed DL 920 form
- Proof of your SR-22 insurance
- Payment for all relevant fees
Drivers who submit all required documents and payments to the DMV will be issued an IID-restricted license and can resume the normal operation of their vehicle. You can call (310) 896-2723 to get additional guidance on IID installation from a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles.
Regulations on IID Usage Throughout California
Drivers with an IID installed on their vehicle must adhere to some regulations in California. For example, you will need to perform blood alcohol content (BAC) testing each time you turn on your vehicle with an IID. IIDs are personal breathalyzer devices that can detect traces of alcohol on your breath.
Your vehicle will be locked-out for a period of time if you fail an IID test. This means you will not be able to drive until you can complete the IID test successfully. You will also be required to complete rolling re-tests as you drive your vehicle.
All failures on your IID will be recorded and reported to your monitoring agency.
Losing an IID-Restricted License in California
An IID-restricted license allows you to operate your vehicle after you are convicted of a DUI. However, your license could be suspended or revoked entirely if you misuse your IID. In order to protect your driving privileges, you must not:
- Tamper with the IID
- Try to get around the IID
- Try to remove the IID
Additionally, IIDs require regular service, calibration, and maintenance. You will be given a service schedule by IID installation techs. Missing your maintenance and service appointments will allow the DMV to suspend or revoke your license entirely. If your license has been suspended in California, your options for regaining your driving privileges are severely limited.
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Getting Back Your Regular License After a DUI
You will not have to keep an IID-restricted license for the rest of your life after a DUI conviction. The court generally requires drivers to maintain an IID for one-to-four years following a DUI conviction. After this period of time, the DMV will allow you to remove your IID.
After your IID is removed, you can get back your regular driver’s license.
Get Help Applying for a Restricted License After a DUI Conviction
Most drivers in California need to get an IID-restricted license after a DUI conviction. You may be able to avoid a DUI conviction and the requirement to install an IID if you get professional help fast after you are arrested. You can get a FREE case evaluation to review your legal options in this situation from the Simmrin Law Group.
Call us at (310) 896-2723 or fill out our online contact form to speak to our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles now.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form