Am I Eligible for a Restricted License Following a DUI Arrest or Conviction in California

After a DUI arrest in California, your ability to drive can be affected in two separate ways: (1) a DMV administrative action (often called APS) and (2) a court-related suspension if you are convicted. Even if your license is suspended, many drivers may still qualify for a restricted license option that allows limited driving under specific conditions.

If you are trying to keep driving legally, the most important themes are (a) deadlines, (b) which “track” is affecting your license (DMV vs court), and (c) which restricted option you qualify for.

Learn more: DMV hearings after a DUI

Will my license be suspended after a DUI?

Many DUI arrests trigger a DMV action that can suspend your driving privilege unless you request a DMV hearing by the deadline. A court conviction can also lead to separate licensing consequences. Because the DMV track and the court track are separate, it is possible for one outcome not to fully control the other.

What is a “restricted license”?

A restricted license is not a full license. It is a limited driving privilege that applies during a suspension or revocation period.

In many DUI situations, the DMV describes two common paths:

• A work / DUI program restriction (limited driving), and/or
• An IID-restricted license (broader driving, but only in vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device).

First-offender restricted license options (PDF)

IID-restricted license vs. “work-only” restricted license

Work / DUI program restriction (limited)

This option is typically narrower. In first-offense non-injury situations, DMV materials describe restricted driving that is generally tied to driving to/from and during employment and to/from a DUI program, along with requirements like DUI program enrollment, SR-22 insurance, and DMV fees.

IID-restricted license (broader driving with strict rules)

An IID is installed in a vehicle and requires a breath sample before starting. If the IID detects alcohol, the engine will not start, and you may be required to provide additional samples while driving.

California also has a statewide IID framework for specified DUI offenders (the DMV summarizes how the program works and when an IID-restricted license may be issued).

Am I eligible for a restricted license?

Eligibility depends on your DMV action type and your case facts. Common factors that can affect eligibility include:

• Whether your action is DMV-based (APS), court-based, or both
• Whether the case involves an alleged chemical test refusal
• Prior DUI history and whether the case involves injury
• Whether the case is alcohol-only versus drug-only (some scenarios are treated differently under DMV programs)
• CDL/commercial driving issues (if applicable)

If you are unsure which category applies, the practical first step is confirming the exact DMV action and your deadline.

How do I apply for a restricted license? (Practical checklist)

While steps vary by case type, the process commonly includes:

1. Confirming your DMV action type and any deadlines (do not wait for your court date).
2. Completing any required DUI program enrollment (when required).
3. Filing required insurance proof (often SR-22).
4. Paying applicable DMV fees.
5. If pursuing an IID restriction, installing the IID and providing required proof of installation/compliance per DMV instructions.

How do I get my license fully reinstated (unrestricted)?

Full reinstatement typically means satisfying all DMV reinstatement requirements and completing any required suspension/revocation period. Depending on your case, that can include DUI program requirements, maintaining SR-22 for the required period, and paying reinstatement-related fees. The exact steps depend on whether your licensing consequence is DMV-based, court-based, or both.

Next step

If you were arrested for DUI in California and want to confirm whether you qualify for a restricted license—and what the fastest legal path is based on your DMV notice and record—contact The H Law Group.

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