Zero tolerance

California is among those countries with the strictest DUI laws. There is no tolerance for an underage person who sat behind the wheel with a blood alcohol concentration of any percentage. If a person under 21 was stopped by a police officer and chemical tests concluded that their blood alcohol concentration was even .01%, the driver is deprived of their driver’s license in the duration of one year.

Critical need restricted license

Underage DUI’s are obviously not treated in the same way as DUI’s older than 21. First of all, they are not allowed any detectable amount of alcohol in their blood system, whereas DUI’s of age are allowed a concentration of .08%. If underage DUI’s have any alcohol in their system according to a chemical test, their license is automatically suspended, while someone older than 21 can have a DMV hearing to be able to keep their license until the end of the trial at least.

Those under 21 with any BAC also have more challenges to obtain a restricted license. In their case it’s called a “critical need restricted license”. These licenses allow the holder to get to and from school/work/family business which is the source of income/medical facility in the case of a family member who is ill and in need of transport.

What are the requirements?

The applicant must be legally present in California and must have submitted without refusal to the chemical tests offered by the police officer and must submit a form titled “Application for Critical Need Restriction” at DMV. A fee of $100 is to be paid and California Insurance Proof Certificate provided as well.

The form enquires about the reasons for the application, the description of transportation needs, the distance from home to the desired destination and what other transport options are available (and why they aren’t adequate).  The applicant also has to list other drivers in the household and explain why they are unable to provide the transportation to the applicant. Depending on the reason for the application, a statement of facts is completed by the family member unable to drive, principle, dean or employer.

San Diego DUI lawyer

If you are under 21 and you would like to apply for a critical need license, because your original one is suspended due to DUI charges, the best thing to do is consult a San Diego DUI lawyer. We have experienced, ethical and aggressive lawyers who are always ready to offer you a case review free of charge and pressure. Get the valid information and valuable guidance – don’t get lost in the system! Call San Diego DUI Lawyer Pros today!