California DUI Process Guide
California DUI Court Process: What Happens After a DUI Arrest?
A California DUI arrest can start two different processes: a criminal court case and a DMV administrative process. They follow different rules and timelines and can reach different results. Not every case reaches every stage, and many criminal cases resolve before trial.
Quick answer
What Happens After a DUI Arrest in California?
- Two tracks can begin: the criminal court case and the DMV administrative process.
- They are separate and can have different outcomes.
- Defense counsel can explain both.
Two tracks
After a California DUI Arrest: Two Tracks Can Begin
Two tracks after a California DUI arrest: the criminal court case and the DMV administrative process.
Criminal court
- Prosecutorial review
- Complaint
- Arraignment
- Pretrial proceedings
- Plea / dismissal / trial
- Sentencing if applicable
Separateprocesses.
DMV
- Administrative Per Se process
- Administrative review
- Hearing request where applicable
- License-related administrative decision
Track 1
The Criminal Court Case
California Courts describes the general stages: charges filed, arraignment, pretrial activities, trial if the case is not resolved, sentencing after a plea or conviction, and post-sentencing matters.
Not every DUI reaches every stage. Many criminal cases resolve before trial. Release conditions may apply; see pretrial release conditions.
Track 2
The DMV Administrative Process
The California DMV automatically conducts an administrative review after a DUI arrest. DMV guidance states that a person has the right to request a hearing within 10 days of receiving a suspension or revocation order.
Requesting a hearing does not guarantee continued driving privileges. See DMV administrative hearings.
Independence
Why the Two Tracks Can Have Different Results
The court and DMV apply different rules. A result in one does not automatically decide the other. For case outcomes, see charges dropped vs dismissed.
Separate requirement
DUI Program Requirements
DUI program requirements may arise separately depending on the case. See our AB 541 program guide.
Where relevant
Assessments and Monitoring
An alcohol assessment or remote alcohol monitoring may be relevant in some cases. Voluntary treatment or monitoring does not guarantee reduced charges, license protection, probation, diversion or dismissal.
Legal note
DMV deadlines are short. Contact defense counsel promptly about both the court case and the DMV process.
What ETS can and cannot do
Where Executive Treatment Solutions Fits
ETS does not represent clients in court or at the DMV, request hearings or protect driving privileges. ETS may coordinate assessments, monitoring, treatment and case management where relevant.
Responsibilities
Who Does What?
Court / prosecutor
Handle the criminal case.
DMV
Handles the administrative license process.
Defense counsel
Advises on both tracks and deadlines.
ETS
Coordinates assessments and monitoring where relevant.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About the California DUI Process
Sources & Legal References
California DMV
California Courts
Confidential consultation
Support After a DUI Arrest
ETS can help coordinate assessments, monitoring and case management that counsel may find relevant.
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