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Last Modified on Feb 10, 2026
A DUI can result in serious consequences that can alter the trajectory of your life very quickly. Even a 1st DUI in California can mean a suspended license, mandatory driving restrictions, fines, treatment programs, DUI classes, and even jail time. However, the most severe penalties can often be minimized with the right DUI attorney.
DUIs are fairly common in California, particularly on highly trafficked roads, which can have more fatal DUI crashes than others. Consequently, law enforcement officers put a lot of effort into locating drivers who are travelling on these roads and are under the influence of alcohol.
California DUI Laws and Criminal Penalties
California Vehicle Code § 23152 explains that it is illegal in California to operate a vehicle under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Specifically, drivers age 21 and older may not drive with a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher. Drivers under 21 must not drive with a BAC of 0.01% or higher. A first-offense DUI is usually a misdemeanor if there are no aggravating factors. Penalties for a first DUI conviction can often include:
- Time in jail: You can get anywhere from 48 hours up to six months of jail time for a first DUI in California, but most first-timers get probation or another alternative to jail.
- Payment of fines: Fines for a first-time DUI in California can be as much as $1,000. This is in addition to penalty assessments and court fees.
- Probation: Most first-offense DUI convictions result in a sentence of three to five years’ probation.
- Mandatory DUI classes: DUI and alcohol education classes are usually included in first-time DUI sentencing. These may last anywhere from three to five months.
DMV Administrative Driving Penalties
A first DUI in California also carries penalties from the California DMV. These penalties are independent of criminal penalties. The repercussions of a first DUI in California are:
- If you refused to take a test at the time of your arrest, you could lose your driving privileges for up to one year.
- If you took a chemical test to determine your BAC, your driver’s license may only be suspended for four months.
- If eligible, you may be able to get limited driving privileges, or you may be court-ordered to get an ignition interlock device, also called an IID, installed on your vehicle for up to six months.An IID is a device installed on the ignition of every car you operate at your own expense. The device works like a breathalyzer. If the IID detects alcohol in your system, it does not allow you to start the car.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that a first DUI can cost an offender about $10,000 in fees and fines. In Kings County, there were 710 DUI arrests in one year, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety’s (OTS) most recent report. Kings County has a 78.9% DUI conviction rate, placing it in the top 10 counties in California. If you’ve been arrested for DUI, having a skilled DUI attorney can make a big difference in your case.
Why Choose Us?
The DUI attorneys at the Carlos Navarrete Law Firm have over 23 years of combined experience representing first-time DUI cases similar to yours. We maintain respect for our clients from start to finish, no matter what the charges are. Our approach is to use every resource available to help our clients achieve an optimal outcome. We can do the same for your DUI case.
FAQs About First-Time DUI in California
What Is the Typical Sentence for a First-Time DUI in California?
The typical sentence for a first-time DUI in California is typically a combination of alternatives to jail time, though jail is a possibility. If there are no other charges attached to your DUI case, no one was harmed as a result of your DUI, and you have a knowledgeable DUI attorney, for a first DUI, you may be able to get probation, mandatory attendance of a DUI class, and a fine instead of jail time.
How Much Does One DUI Cost in California?
The total cost of one DUI in California could include multiple expenses. DUI costs cover court fees, DUI attorney fees, and fines. Other potential expenses might be the cost of drug and alcohol classes or other programs. If you’re required to get an ignition interlock device, this also comes out of your pocket. Towing expenses, license reinstatement fees, probation fees, a car insurance increase, and alternative transportation are all potential monetary costs of a DUI.
Can a First-Time DUI Be Dismissed in California?
Yes, it is possible for a first-time DUI to be dismissed in California. However, getting a DUI dismissed can be a challenge. Getting a DUI charge reduced is a more realistic scenario. If you hope for either of these resolutions to play out in your DUI case, it is imperative that you work with a DUI attorney as soon as possible to determine the defense strategy that can be most effective in your case.
What Should You Expect on Your First DUI Court Date in California?
On your first DUI court date in California, expect to have an arraignment. At this hearing, you receive the formal charges filed against you. The judge then puts your next court date on the court docket. A trusted DUI attorney can advocate on the defendant’s behalf and may be able to have an impact on the case prior to the first court date in some cases.
Hire a DUI Lawyer with Experience in First DUI Cases in California
The DUI attorneys at Carlos Navarrete Law Firm have handled thousands of cases, and no one knows better how to navigate a first DUI in California than our DUI attorneys. Contact our office to schedule an appointment and meet with us to discuss your case. The sooner you hire a DUI lawyer to get started on your case, the better chance you have of getting a more favorable outcome.
