DUI Programs

The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) licenses all DUI programs in California. The objectives of the DUI program are to reduce the number of repeat DUI offenses and to provide participants an opportunity to address problems related to the use of alcohol and/or other drugs. Persons convicted of a DUI offense must complete a DUI program licensed by DHCS to maintain or reestablish their driver’s license. For specific information regarding your driver’s license, contact DMV’s Mandatory Action Unit at (916) 657-6525.

The Wet Reckless Program:

Persons convicted of a reckless driving offense with a measurable amount of alcohol in their blood must complete a 12-hour DUI alcohol and drug education program. This is a court ordered program. The DMV doesn’t require completion of a wet reckless class to reinstate a driver’s license.

First Offender Program:

Persons convicted of a first DUI offense will complete one of the following programs, usually determined by their BAC: three-month (30-hour), six-month (44-hour), or nine-month (60-hour) program. Each program requires 12 hours of alcohol and drug education, a minimum of 10 to 44 hours of group counseling, and individual counseling interviews.

18-Month Multiple Offender Program:

Second and subsequent DUI offenders complete 18-month multiple offender programs with 12 hours of alcohol and drug education, 52 hours of group counseling, biweekly individual interviews, and 6 hours of community re-entry monitoring.

30-Month Multiple Offender Programs:

A county may elect to provide 30-month DUI programs for third and subsequent DUI offenders. Program requirements are: 12 hours of alcohol and drug education, 78 hours of group counseling, individual interviews, and up to 300 hours of community service.