California DUI: the 10-day DMV rule explained
By James Paul Owens ·
A DUI arrest in California sets off two separate proceedings: a criminal case in court and an administrative license case at the DMV.
The 10-day deadline
You generally have 10 days from your arrest to request a DMV hearing. If you do not, the suspension of your driving privilege can take effect automatically.
What the DMV hearing decides
The hearing is about your license, not guilt or innocence. It typically looks at whether the stop and arrest were lawful and whether test results meet the legal threshold.
Why coordinate both cases
Testimony and evidence from the DMV hearing can matter in court. Handling both with one strategy protects you in each.
This article is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your situation, contact the firm.