What Happens After a First-Time DUI in California?

December 24, 2025

Summary 

Getting arrested for a first-time DUI can feel like everything is suddenly up in the air. Many Redwood City residents worry about losing their license, missing work, or facing jail time especially if they’ve never been in trouble before. 

This guide explains what actually happens after a first DUI in California, step by step. You’ll learn what to expect right after the arrest, how the DMV and court processes work, what penalties are typical, and what options may be available to protect your license and future. 

First-Time DUI in Redwood City: What This Guide Will Help You Understand 

DUI arrest often comes with confusion and misinformation. Friends may offer advice that doesn’t apply to California law, or you might assume a first offense isn’t serious. In reality, a first-time DUI is manageable but only if you understand the process and act on time. 

This article focuses on: 

• What California considers a “first” DUI 

• Immediate consequences after arrest 

• DMV vs. criminal court proceedings 

• Penalties, license issues, and real-world impacts 

• Common mistakes to avoid 

What California Law Considers a “First-Time DUI” 

Under California law, a DUI can be charged in more than one way. 

DUI vs. DUI Per Se

• DUI based on impairment: An officer believes alcohol or drugs affected your ability to drive safely. 

• DUI per se: Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was at or above the legal limit, even if you didn’t seem impaired. 

You can face DUI charges even if your BAC is under 0.08% if officers believe you’re driving was affected. 

BAC Limits That Matter 

California has different BAC thresholds depending on the driver: 

• 0.08% for most drivers 

• 0.04% for commercial drivers 

• 0.01% for drivers under 21 (zero-tolerance law) 

California DUI laws also apply to drugs, including marijuana and prescription medications, if they impair driving. 

When a “First DUI” Might Not Be Treated as One 

A DUI from another state within the past 10 years can still count as a prior offense. Courts look beyond California records when determining whether a DUI is truly “first-time.” 

What Happens Right After a DUI Arrest in Redwood City 

Most first-time DUI cases follow a similar pattern. 

After a traffic stop, officers may conduct field sobriety tests and request a breath or blood test. If they believe there’s a probable cause, an arrest follows. 

For many first-time offenders: 

• Booking is brief 

• Release often happens the same day 

• Your vehicle may be impounded or released to a sober driver 

You’ll also receive a pink temporary license. This document is critical—it allows you to drive for a limited time and starts important deadlines. 

Two Separate DUI Cases You Must Deal With 

One of the biggest surprises for first-time DUI defendants is learning that there are two separate cases. 

The California DMV DUI Process 

The DMV automatically moves to suspend your license after a DUI arrest. You have 10 days to request a DMV hearing. If you miss this deadline, the suspension usually goes into effect automatically. 

At a DMV hearing, the focus is narrow: 

• Was the stop lawful? 

• Was the arrest legal? 

• Was your BAC at or above the limit, or did you refuse testing? 

The DMV process is administrative, not criminal but the outcome directly affects your ability to drive. 

The Criminal Court Case in San Mateo County 

Your criminal case take place in court, often beginning with arraignment. Most first-time DUIs are misdemeanors. 

The court handles: 

• Guilt or innocence 

• Penalties such as fines, probation, and DUI classes 

Winning or losing one case does not automatically decide the other. 

First-Time DUI Penalties in California: What’s Typical 

While every case is different, first-time DUI penalties often include: 

• Fines and penalty assessments, which can total several thousand dollars 

• Informal probation, usually lasting three to five years 

• DUI education programs, commonly 3 to 9 months 

• License suspension or restriction 

Will You Go to Jail? 

For most first-time DUIs without aggravating factors, jail time is unlikely. However, jail becomes more possible if: 

• BAC was very high (often 0.15% or above) 

• There was an accident 

• You refused chemical testing 

Driver’s License Consequences and Driving Options 

License issues are often the biggest concern for Redwood City residents who rely on driving for work or family. 

A first DUI typically triggers a license suspension. However, many drivers qualify for restricted driving privileges, which may allow driving to: 

• Work 

• School 

• DUI programs 

California also allows or requires Ignition of Interlock Devices (IIDs) in many first-time DUI cases. An IID can allow continued driving during the suspension period if other requirements are met. 

Reinstating your license usually involves: 

• Completing required classes 

• Paying DMV fees 

• Filing an SR-22 insurance form 

How a First-Time DUI Can Affect Your Life in Redwood City 

Beyond court and DMV penalties, a DUI can create ripple effects. 

Many employers run background checks, and some professional licenses require disclosure. Insurance rates almost always increase, sometimes significantly. 

For Bay Area residents, commuting challenges can be one of the hardest parts. Even a short suspension can disrupt work and family responsibilities if you’re unprepared. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid After a First DUI Arrest 

Small missteps can make a difficult situation worse. 

Common mistakes include: 

• Missing the 10-day DMV hearing deadline 

• Pleading guilty too quickly without reviewing evidence 

• Talking about the case without legal guidance 

• Assuming a first DUI is minor or “automatic” 

Avoiding these errors often leads to better outcomes. 

Can a First-Time DUI Be Reduced or Dismissed? 

Some first-time DUI cases end with reduced charges or dismissals, depending on the facts. 

Factors that may help include: 

• Problems with the traffic stop 

• Inaccurate breath or blood testing 

• Lack of probable cause for arrest 

Possible alternative outcomes include: 

• Wet reckless (alcohol-related reckless driving) 

• Dry reckless (non-alcohol-related reckless driving) 

• Reduced penalties or dismissal 

Early legal strategy plays a key role here. 

A Realistic First-Time DUI Example 

A typical Redwood City first-time DUI case might unfold like this:
An arrest occurs, followed by a DMV hearing request within 10 days. The court case proceeds separately. With timely action, the driver avoids a full license suspension by installing an IID and attending required classes. The case resolves without jail, and probation is completed without further issues. 

Not every case looks the same, but preparation often limits long-term damage. 

When to Talk to a Redwood City DUI Defense Attorney 

It’s wise to speak with an attorney if: 

• You want help handling both DMV and court cases 

• Your case involves high BAC, refusal, or an accident 

• You rely on driving for work or family 

Local experience with San Mateo County courts can make a difference. 

Moving Forward After a First-Time DUI in Redwood City 

A first-time DUI does not define your future. What matters most is how you respond in the days and weeks that follow. 

Understanding deadlines, knowing your options, and taking informed steps can reduce stress and long-term impact. 

To learn more about DUI defense and next steps, explore resources at DefendCA or review official information from the California DMV and California Courts. 

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DUI in California

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