California DUI Education Programs
In California, all DUI education programs---also known as alcohol school--are licensed through the Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs (ADP). There are several levels of programs, depending upon the alcohol-related driving offense that was committed. Enrollment in these programs is only by court order or DMV referral. The purpose of the programs is to help participants examine their attitudes and behavior regarding alcohol use, and to eliminate or reduce its use. There are over 450 licensed programs throughout the state.
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Wet Reckless Programs
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If you are convicted of reckless driving and had any measurable amount of alcohol in your blood, the court will order you to complete a 12-hour DUI education program. In these cases, the driver's blood alcohol concentration is below .08. Although this is considered the first level of DUI programs in California, you will only be ordered to this program if your conviction was less than a DUI charge. The program requires six two-hour classes and five other meetings with a self-help program, such as Alcoholics Anonymous.
First Offender Programs
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A first conviction for DUI requires completion of a three-month, 30-hour program that includes both education and counseling components. The program involves approximately 36 hours of coursework, which will require you to attend one three-hour session for 12 weeks. If your license has been suspended, you may qualify for a restricted driver's license that will permit you to drive to and from the sessions, as well as your regular employment. However, if your blood alcohol concentration was at or above 0.20, the program will be longer---60 hours of education and counseling sessions over a nine-month period.
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18-Month Programs
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For anyone who has been convicted of DUI two or more times within 10 years, there is an 18-month multiple-offender program that must be completed. This program includes group counseling (52 hours), alcohol and drug education (12 hours) and community reentry monitoring (6 hours). During the first 12 months, there are individual interviews every other week.
30-Month Programs
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In Los Angeles and Stanislaus counties, a special program is provided for DUI offenders with three or more convictions. This is an optional program for counties to include as part of the DUI education programs. To complete this program, you will have to attend group counseling (78 hours), alcohol and drug education (12 hours) and perform community service for at least 120 hours, up to 300 hours. You will also have regular individual counseling sessions.
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