What are the restrictions on a temporary California license after a DUI arrest?

A person convicted for a first offense DUI in California may be ordered to participate in a DUI program and may be issued a restricted (temporary) driver's license. California's DUI laws provide the following:

13352.4.  (a) Except as provided in subdivision (h), the department shall issue a restricted driver’s license to a person whose driver’s license was suspended if the person meets all of the following requirements:

A. Submits proof satisfactory to the department of enrollment in, or completion of, a licensed driving-under-the-influence program;

1. Submits proof of financial responsibility; and
2. Pays all applicable reinstatement or reissue fees and any restriction fee required by the department.

B. The restriction of the driving privilege shall become effective when the department receives all of the documents and fees required under subdivision (a) and shall remain in effect until the final day of the imposed original suspension or until the date all reinstatement requirements have been met, whichever date is later, and may include credit for any suspension period served.

C. The restriction of the driving privilege shall be limited to the hours necessary for driving to and from the person’s place of employment, driving during the course of employment, and driving to and from activities required in the driving-under-the-influence program.

D. Whenever the driving privilege is restricted under this section, proof of financial responsibility shall be maintained for three years. If the person does not maintain that proof of financial responsibility at any time during the restriction, the driving privilege shall be suspended until the proof is received by the department.

If you face a California drunk driving charge, talk to a defense attorney as soon as possible to avoid possible prosecution and/or conviction.