When out-of-state drivers get a DUI in California, they will face most of the same penalties as a California driver who has been arrested for drunk driving -with one exception. Out-of-state drivers who get a DUI in California will not have their license taken away by the arresting officer. That’s because California police cannot take away something that belongs to another state -like a driver’s license. Be aware though that you cannot drive in California with your privilege to drive suspended, even if you still have a valid out of state license.
When Out-of-State Drivers Get a DUI in California
While this does mean you will retain your license for a while longer, most states recognize the penalties set forth by the California DMV. If you renew or obtain your out-of-state license, your local motor vehicle department is usually notified when out-of-state drivers get a DUI in California and they will usually require you to clear it before issuing you another license. Your home state DMV may also take action against you right away if it becomes aware of a California DUI conviction.
Out-of-State Drivers Can Still Fight DUIs
Fortunately, you still have the right to fight the DUI charges and the DMV license suspension even if you reside in another state. While the process can be particularly intimidating and frustrating for someone who lives far away from the Vista courthouse, a skilled DUI lawyer like Peter M. Liss can help make the process as easy as possible for you. In fact, in many cases, your attorney can appear in court for you, minimizing the number of times you will need to travel to San Diego County.
Additionally, if you are convicted, your attorney may be able to arrange for the sentencing you received to be completed in your home state. Vista courts will generally allow these penalties to be transferred to occur in other jurisdictions, so the fines, jail time, alcohol treatment programs and any other penalties you incur can be handled from your home state and you will not need to travel to California to serve your sentence.
While an experienced DUI attorney can make fighting the criminal charges and the DMV license suspension as easy as possible, you need to act quickly. California drunk driving laws only provide a ten day window to challenge a driver’s license suspension, so call (760) 643-4050 for a free initial consultation today.
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