There is a DUI restricted drivers license available for underage 21 drivers, it is called a “critical need” license and the application is available on the California DMV website. It cannot be submitted until after 30 days of suspension have been served. The most common reason for the DUI criitical need license is for work and school, but there are other reasons enumerated on the critical need application like medical etc. It requires the driver be insured, have the school and/or job sign off on it, and there is a lack of available public transportation.
Anyone under age 21 with any alcohol in their system even .01 blood alcohol level (B.A.) usually triggers a DMV proceeding as well as a Court case. Thre are lesser charges of being .05 B.A. or more and under 21 or other charges besides DUI which can trigger a suspension. These do result in the mandatory one year suspension. The DMV can issue the criticial need rstricted license, but if there is a Court proceeding also, the Judge must also restrict the license. If there is not a restriction by both, the suspension remains in effect. If caught driving while suspended, new suspended license charges will be filed which carry large penalties as well as the car being impounded for 30 days. Contact the attorneys at Christoph Law Offices 760-941-5720 for a free consultation concerning suspensions and licensing for alcohol related arrests. We have handled over 3000 DUI arrests over more than 30 years directly across from the Vista Courthouse.
