California is known for its highways and busy roads, so it’s no surprise that the state also has some of the strictest DUI laws in the country. If you’re caught driving under the influence in California, you could face serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Here’s what you can expect when you get a DUI in California:
First offense
If you’re caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher for the first time, you could face the following penalties:
- Fines: You could pay up to $2,000 in fines, plus penalty assessments, which can add up to thousands of dollars.
- License suspension: Your license will be suspended for at least four months and up to six months.
- Probation: You’ll be placed on probation for three to five years.
- Ignition interlock device: You may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle, which requires you to pass a breathalyzer test before starting your car.
- Alcohol education program: You’ll be required to complete a three-month alcohol education program.
Second offense
If you’re caught driving under the influence for the second time within 10 years of your first offense, the penalties increase:
- Fines: You could pay up to $2,500 in fines, plus penalty assessments.
- License suspension: Your license will be suspended for two years.
- Probation: You’ll be placed on probation for three to five years.
- Ignition interlock device: You’ll be required to install an IID in your vehicle for at least one year.
- Alcohol education program: You’ll be required to complete an 18- or 30-month alcohol education program.
- Jail time: You could face up to one year in jail.
Third offense
If you’re caught driving under the influence for the third time within 10 years of your second offense, the penalties increase even more:
- Fines: You could pay up to $3,000 in fines, plus penalty assessments.
- License revocation: Your license will be revoked for three years.
- Probation: You’ll be placed on probation for three to five years.
- Ignition interlock device: You’ll be required to install an IID in your vehicle for at least two years.
- Alcohol education program: You’ll be required to complete a 30-month alcohol education program.
- Jail time: You could face up to one year in jail.
Fourth offense
If you’re caught driving under the influence for the fourth time, you could face felony charges:
- Fines: You could pay up to $5,000 in fines, plus penalty assessments.
- License revocation: Your license will be revoked for four years.
- Probation: You’ll be placed on probation for three to five years.
- Ignition interlock device: You’ll be required to install an IID in your vehicle for at least three years.
- Alcohol education program: You’ll be required to complete a 30-month alcohol education program.
- Jail time: You’ll face 16 months to three years in state prison.
It’s important to note that these penalties only apply to DUIs involving alcohol. If you’re caught driving under the influence of drugs, you could face even harsher consequences.
If you’re facing DUI charges in California, it’s important to seek the help of an experienced DUI attorney. They can help you understand your rights and work to minimize the consequences you face. In some cases, they may even be able to get your charges reduced or dismissed.