In California, you have only 10 days from your arrest to request a hearing or your license will be automatically suspended.
PROTECT YOUR LICENSE: THE 10-DAY DMV CLOCK IS TICKING
The DMV hearing is separate from your court case and is your only opportunity to challenge the suspension. You don’t have to deal with the DMV – we handle everything for you.
What Is a DUI DMV Hearing in California?
After a DUI arrest in California, the DMV initiates a separate administrative process to suspend your driver's license. This action is entirely independent of your criminal court case and begins the moment you are cited.
You have a strictly enforced 10-day window from the date of your arrest to request a DMV hearing. This hearing is your only opportunity to challenge the suspension and present evidence to protect your driving privileges before an automatic suspension takes effect.
- 10-Day Deadline: You must act immediately to request your hearing.
- Administrative Independence: The DMV process is separate from your court dates.
- Evidentiary Opportunity: This is your chance to present arguments and fight for your license.
We Handle the DMV So You Don’t Have To
Navigating the California DMV process after a DUI arrest is complex and tedious. Our firm provides a full-service solution, taking the burden off your shoulders while strategically fighting to protect your driving privileges.
Immediate Contact
Formal Scheduling
Evidence Review
We contact the DMV immediately upon your hire to ensure the strict 10-day deadline is met, preventing an automatic suspension.
Our team handles all logistics to schedule the hearing on your behalf, navigating the DMV's calendar with professional efficiency.
We obtain and meticulously audit all police reports and DMV records to identify technical flaws in the prosecution's case.
Strategic Preparation
Attorney Appearance
We prepare a comprehensive legal foundation, developing technical arguments and gathering relevant evidence to present at the hearing.
You do NOT have to attend the hearing. We appear on your behalf, advocating for your results without interrupting your life.
We keep our clients informed and updated throughout every stage of the hearing, ensuring you never feel left in the dark about your future.
Past the 10-Day Deadline? Don’t Give Up Yet.
Even if the 10-day deadline has passed, it may still be worth speaking with an attorney to review the timeline and see whether there is any basis to request a late DMV hearing or explore other options. While there are no guarantees, it is far better to receive legal advice from a trial-ready firm than to simply do nothing.
- Review of your arrest and DMV timeline.
- Honest assessment of whether any late options exist.
- Guidance on next steps to protect your ability to drive.
Don’t wait any longer—reach out to us to discuss your situation.
DUI DMV Hearing FAQs
What happens if I miss the 10-day deadline?
If you fail to request a hearing within 10 days of your arrest, your driver's license will be automatically suspended 30 days post-arrest. Contact us immediately so we can act to preserve your driving privileges and request a stay of suspension.
Do I have to go to the DMV hearing?
As long as you have someone representing you on your behalf, no. Otherwise, yes. However, as your legal representatives, we can appear on your behalf. This allows us to present arguments and challenge the officer's findings for you.
Is the DMV hearing the same as my court date?
No. These are two separate processes. The DMV hearing is an administrative review focused solely on your license, while your court date handles the criminal aspect of the DUI. We provide a cohesive, trial-ready defense for both.
How quickly should I contact you after my arrest?
You should contact us immediately. With only 10 days to protect your driving privilege, every hour is critical. Reaching out early allows us to subpoena the necessary reports and build the strongest possible defense for your hearing.
Act Now to Protect Your License
The 10-day deadline is strict and non-negotiable—missing it means an automatic license suspension. Our firm handles the entire DMV process from start to finish so you don’t have to deal with the bureaucracy alone. Your first step to saving your driving privileges is a free, confidential consultation with our trial attorneys.