Are There Exceptions for DUI License Suspension? “If you have been convicted of driving under the influence in California and it’s your first offense, you can get what they call a restricted license.
If you have an SR‑22, which is a special type of insurance, proof of enrollment in an alcohol program, and $125, the Department of Motor Vehicles will then give you a restricted license. That will allow you to go to and from work, to and from your alcohol program, and to and from school. Otherwise, you’re not supposed to be driving.
You can also, if it’s maybe your second or your third offense, because if it’s a second or a third, you are not eligible for a restricted license, you can apply for what they call a critical need. But those are extremely difficult to get through the Department of Motor Vehicles.” – Philip Greenberg
