A:
If this is your first DUI, the process can feel confusing and stressful—but we're here to help clarify what comes next.

• DMV Action: If you were cited for driving under the influence and received a pink temporary license, you may be subject to a DMV license suspension—even before your court date. This is known as an Administrative Per Se (APS) action. You must contact the DMV within 10 days of your arrest to request a hearing if you want to challenge the suspension.

• Court Process: If you are convicted in court, the judge will typically require you to complete a state-licensed DUI education program. First-time offenders are usually assigned to a 3-month program (AB-541), though requirements can vary based on your blood alcohol level and other case factors.

• Enrollment Requirement: To avoid delays or license issues, it’s important to enroll in a licensed DUI program as soon as you’re eligible. Our programs are certified to meet both DMV and court requirements.

Not sure where to start? Whether your case involves a DMV Administrative Per Se action or a court order, you can submit your documents using our DUI Enrollment Request form. Once received, we’ll review your paperwork and let you know if you are eligible to enroll.

A:
The length of your DUI program depends on your conviction type and what is required by the court and/or DMV. At California Diversion Programs, we offer the following state-licensed DUI education programs for Los Angeles County and California residents:

• Wet Reckless (SB-1176): A 12-hour education program typically required for individuals convicted of a "wet reckless" offense. This is the shortest DUI-related course and must be authorized by the court.

• AB-541 (3-Month Program): Designed for first-time DUI offenders with a lower blood alcohol level. This program includes education classes, group sessions, and individual interviews.

• AB-762 (6-Month Program): Typically ordered for first-time offenders with a higher BAC or other aggravating factors. This program includes additional class and group participation requirements beyond AB-541.

• AB-1353 (9-Month Program): Usually assigned when the BAC is particularly high or there was a refusal to submit to chemical testing. It involves a longer-term commitment and more extensive participation.

Since California Diversion Programs operates within Los Angeles County, additional county-specific requirements will apply.

If you do not enroll in a DUI program within the 21 calendar days given by the court, you may be considered non-compliant. This can trigger serious consequences, including:

• Your case being referred back to court for failure to enroll

• A possible bench warrant for your arrest

• Probation violations

• Driver’s license suspension or hold by the DMV

Courts in Los Angeles County expect timely enrollment, and program providers are required to report missed deadlines. If you're approaching your deadline, contact us immediately. We can help assess your situation and provide documentation to present to the court, if applicable.

A:
Yes—if certain conditions are met, you may enroll in a Los Angeles County DUI program even if your conviction occurred in another county.

Under California Health & Safety Code § 11837.2, DUI participants are allowed to enroll in a state-licensed DUI program located in:

• The county where the conviction occurred,

• The county where the participant resides, or

• A county where the participant works, as long as there is a reciprocal agreement between counties.

Since California Diversion Programs is located in Los Angeles County, you may be eligible to enroll if you live, work, or were referred to Los Angeles by another court or county administrator. Please note that some counties may require formal authorization for out-of-county enrollment.

Q: How can I get my driver’s license reinstated after a DUI?
A:
To reinstate your California driver’s license after a DUI, you will need to complete several steps through both the DMV and your DUI program. Below is a general outline of what the process involves:

1. Enroll in a DUI Program
   If your license was suspended due to a DUI arrest, enrolling in a state-licensed DUI program is often required to begin the reinstatement process. Once your enrollment is processed, we can notify the DMV as long as all required information has been submitted.

2. Serve the Required Suspension Period
   The DMV imposes a suspension period that depends on the circumstances of your case, such as your blood alcohol level or whether you refused a chemical test. In some cases, you may qualify for a restricted license early if certain conditions are met, including installing an ignition interlock device.

3. File an SR-22 Certificate
   You must obtain and maintain proof of financial responsibility. This is done by requesting an SR-22 form from your insurance provider, who will file it directly with the DMV.

4. Pay Reinstatement Fees
   After completing the necessary requirements, you will need to pay the appropriate fees to the DMV in order to restore your driving privileges.

Information Required to Notify the DMV

In order for California Diversion Programs to notify the DMV of your enrollment or completion, we must receive the following information from you:

• Your California driver’s license number or DMV X number (if your license is no longer active)

• Your full legal name as listed in DMV records

• Your current mailing address

• The date of your DUI arrest or violation

If you do not have an active license, you can still be enrolled, but we must have your DMV X number to report to the DMV properly.