After a DUI suspension there is a defined path back to driving. It is paperwork, in a particular order, and missing one piece stalls the whole thing.
Since 2019 California has run a statewide IID requirement, currently in effect for offenses through the end of 2032. Terms depend on your priors within ten years:
| Priors in 10 years | DUI without injury | DUI causing injury |
|---|---|---|
| None | Not mandatory — optional, and it buys you unrestricted driving | 1 year |
| One | 1 year | 2 years |
| Two | 2 years | 3 years |
| Three or more | 3 years | 3 years |
| Prior felony DUI | 3 years | 4 years |
Source: California DMV, statewide IID requirements.
You can apply for an IID exemption if you do not own a vehicle, have no vehicle at your residence, and have no access to the vehicle you were arrested in — or if you do not live in California. That request has to be made within 30 days of the suspension notice.
There is also an employer-vehicle exemption for driving a company vehicle in the course of your job, though it is not available if you own or control the business.
Most of this you can do yourself, and we will tell you when that is the case. Where we earn our fee is upstream — at the DMV hearing, where the suspension can be set aside before any of this becomes necessary, and in court, where the conviction that triggers the longer suspension is decided.
Pick yours for the local court, DUI programs and jail alternatives.
This page is general information about California law, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney–client relationship. Penalties and procedures vary by county, by judge and by the facts of your case. Talk to us about yours.
Responsive, direct, and relentless — the qualities our clients mention again and again.
Nathan earned his J.D. from Michigan State University College of Law and was admitted to the bar in 2010. He is licensed to practice in California and founded The 805 Legal Team in 2017 to serve his Central California community, building it around DUI defense — the DMV hearing and the court case both, because losing track of either one costs clients their license. California Bar #310324.
Straight answers, no runaround, and a team that fights both the DMV and the court so you don't have to face either alone.
"I hired them for a citation which ended up being dismissed. The team was very helpful during the whole process and answered all my questions. Would definitely hire them again."
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"This team of DUI attorneys made my first DUI offense worry-free. Highly recommend them — they will get the job done."
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