Drivers convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) can lose their license in California. You can use this article to find out how to reinstate your driver’s license after a DUI.
How Do I Reinstate My Driver’s License After A DUI?
Your driver’s license allows you to freely travel throughout California and the rest of the country. Losing your driving privileges following a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) can, therefore, be very serious. So, how do you reinstate your driver’s license after a DUI in California?
Getting back your driving privileges may involve applying for an ignition interlock device (IID) restricted license. Learn more about this process here, with the professionals at the Simmrin Law Group. You can even call us at (310) 896-2723 to get fast answers about DUI charges in California.
Basic Facts About Reinstating Your Driver’s License
Getting back your driving privileges after a DUI in California is much easier than it used to be. California began a statewide IID program in 2019 that allows most drivers to operate their vehicles after a DUI conviction if they install an IID on their vehicle.
IIDs will measure your blood alcohol content (BAC) each time you try to turn on your vehicle. As long as your BAC is at an acceptable level, generally under 0.02%, you will be able to drive your vehicle wherever and whenever you would like.
Drivers can generally get an IID-restricted license without a lengthy suspension or revocation, allowing you to move forward after a DUI conviction.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
Steps to Reinstate Your Driver’s License with an IID
Reinstating your driver’s license with an IID requires you to complete a few necessary steps. You will need to:
Install the IID
Before you can get back your driving privileges, you need to get an IID installed in your vehicle. You must get the IID installed professionally by a company approved by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Installation techs will fill out a Verification of Installation Ignition Interlock form (DL 920) for you to give to the DMV.
Get SR-22 Insurance
Drivers convicted of a DUI must get SR-22 insurance to reinstate their license. Note that SR-22 insurance is not a stand-alone policy. You will need to have regular car insurance before you can acquire SR-22 insurance. Contact your insurance company to ensure you get SR-22 insurance filed properly.
Complete Any Requirements Ordered by the Court
Sometimes, the court will require you to complete a DUI program after a conviction. You must complete this program before you can get an IID-restricted license. You may also need to complete outstanding license revocations or suspensions, depending on your situation.
Return to the DMV
Once you have all the required documentation, you can return to the DMV. You will need to pay reissue and service fees to acquire your IID-restricted license. After completing this process, you can begin operating your vehicle.
Obey Regulations on IID Usage in California
You can drive your vehicle normally with an IID installed as long as you adhere to the orders of the court. This means that you must:
- Use the IID each time you turn on your vehicle
- Complete rolling retests as you drive
- Take your IID for regular service, maintenance, and calibration
Misuse of an IID can result in serious legal consequences. Your driver’s license could be revoked or suspended if you tamper with the IID, try to avoid using the IID, or attempt to remove the IID before you are ordered to do so by the court.
Make sure you reach out to a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles if you are accused of misusing an IID. Call (310) 896-2723 to get help.
Exemptions for IID Usage Throughout California
You should be aware that not all drivers in California will be required to use an IID after a DUI conviction. You may be exempted from IID usage if you:
- Don’t have a vehicle
- Live out-of-state
- Are physically incapable of using an IID
Additionally, some first-time DUI offenders may not be ordered to install an IID. However, without an IID your license will be fully suspended or revoked for a set period of time. You will not be able to operate a vehicle at all.
Reinstating your license if you did not get an IID requires you to serve out the full term of your suspension or revocation. At this point, you can reach out to the DMV to re-acquire your driving privileges.
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Contact a Lawyer About Reinstating Your Driver’s License
You can reinstate your driver’s license after a DUI by installing an IID on your vehicle. However, many drivers find IIDs inconvenient to use. You may be able to avoid a DUI conviction and IID usage altogether by getting legal help after you are arrested. You can reach out to the Simmrin Law Group for assistance by completing our online contact form or calling (310) 896-2723.
Learn more about your options with a FREE consultation from our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form