After a DUI conviction, you likely face a suspended or revoked license. In some cases, your license can be suspended or revoked immediately after a DUI arrest. Many people rely on their ability to drive to go to work, school, and perform other daily tasks.
There are some options for a restricted driver’s license in these cases, but they can be confusing. Working with a San Diego restricted driver’s license lawyer will help you protect your personal mobility.
Navigating the DMV and Court Process After a DUI in San Diego, CA
Whether you have been arrested or convicted of a DUI, it is important to work with an attorney to more effectively navigate this process. After an arrest, a DUI attorney can represent you in a DMV hearing and a court hearing. If you have already been convicted, an attorney can help you determine your options for a restricted license.
At Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys, we can help you understand the often-complex landscape of the administrative and criminal systems in San Diego. With more than 20 years of combined experience, our attorneys can provide you with comprehensive legal support.
What Can You Do on a Restricted License in California?
There are specific conditions for driving with a restricted license. These include driving:
Between your work and your home
For your work
To and from a DMV- or court-approved DUI school or other activities required by the court or DMV
An attorney can help you determine if you can apply for this form of restricted license and if it is beneficial for your needs.
Why Choose Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys?
Affordable Justice
Everyone deserves a powerful defense. We’re committed to making fierce, effective representation accessible and affordable.
Experienced and Unyielding
With 20 years of legal experience, we’ve honed the instincts, strategy, and grit needed to deliver results—even in the toughest situations.
Client-Centered Protection
When you hire us, you’re under our wing. We take on your burden, reduce your anxiety, and give you the strength of knowing someone has your back.
Strength with Compassion
We combine inner steel with heartfelt empathy. Our clients aren’t just cases—they’re people who deserve to feel protected, supported, and understood.
Relentless Advocacy
We fight for our clients with unshakable determination. Like a pitbull in the courtroom, we don’t back down—ever—until the judge says it’s over.
The Requirements of a Restricted Driver’s License
If you are arrested for or convicted of a DUI (driving under the influence), you can, in some cases, apply with the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) for a restricted license in place of your suspended or revoked driver’s license. A restricted driver’s license through an employment and treatment program is a temporary license that lasts for between five and twelve months.
Under this license, you are only allowed to drive for specific reasons and to specific locations. This enables you to fulfill obligations in your life and the requirements of a DUI sentence, such as probation requirements.
Not every driver arrested or convicted for a DUI can get a restricted license. In order to apply for a restricted license, you must be over the age of 21. Minors cannot apply for this license. Additionally, you cannot have refused the chemical test at the traffic stop and must not have been driving on a suspended license when you were arrested for the DUI. Repeat offenders of DUI offenses also cannot apply for this type of restricted license.
In addition to these application requirements, you must take other steps to apply for a restricted license. These include:
Waiting for the required suspension period
Obtaining SR-22 insurance
Enrolling in a DUI offender program
Paying the fine of $125 at the DMV
You must apply for a restricted license to receive one. Even if you meet the requirements, the decision to grant it is up to the court’s discretion.
What If You Violate the Conditions of Driving Under a Restricted License?
If you drive for reasons other than those allowed on your restricted license, you may face several penalties, including a hard suspension of your license. You may also face fines, additional probation requirements, and new criminal charges. If you are caught violating your restricted license, it is essential that you find a criminal defense attorney.
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There is one other form of restricted license, which is available even if you have prior DUI convictions. This restricted license has most of the same requirements as a work-restricted license, but it does not have the same restrictions. With this type of license, you can drive whenever and wherever you’d like.
However, you must have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed in your vehicle. In order to start your car, you must blow into the IID, which will measure your BAC. If it detects alcohol, the car will not start.
Get in Touch With Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys
Contact Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneyswhen you need assistance applying for the right restricted license or defending yourself against DUI charges.
