Contact Us Today! (916) 498-8460

Blog

DUI classes: California DUI Education Programs

Posted by John Campanella | Apr 21, 2023 | 0 Comments

The history of Driving-Under-the-Influence (DUI) programs can be traced back to the early 20th century when some U.S. states began enacting laws prohibiting the operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. However, it wasn't until the 1970s that DUI programs became more widespread.

One of the earliest DUI programs was the Alcohol Safety Action Project (ASAP), which was established in 1974 as a joint effort between the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Department of Transportation. The ASAP was designed to provide education and treatment for DUI offenders, as well as to collect data on the effectiveness of these programs.

In the 1980s, there was a significant increase in public awareness of the dangers of drunk driving, which led to the establishment of more DUI programs across the country. Many of these programs were modeled after the ASAP and focused on providing education and treatment to DUI offenders.

Today, DUI programs vary widely from state to state but generally involve a combination of education, counseling, and treatment for individuals convicted of DUI offenses. These programs often require participants to attend classes and counseling sessions, undergo drug and alcohol testing, and complete community service or other forms of restitution. The goal of these programs is to reduce the likelihood of repeat DUI offenses and to promote safer driving habits among participants.

Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense in California. It can lead to criminal charges, fines, and even jail time. In addition to these penalties, the state of California requires all individuals convicted of DUI to attend DUI alcohol & drug education programs. These programs are designed to educate drivers about the dangers of driving under the influence and help them avoid future offenses. In this article, we will discuss the DUI education programs available in California, their costs, and some common questions about DUI.

COSTS IN CALIFORNIA

The cost of DUI classes in California can vary depending on a few factors, including whether it is a first-time or repeat offense, the length of the program, and the location of the program. Here are the estimated costs of some common DUI programs in California:

  • First-Time Offenders: For first-time offenders, the cost of a DUI education program can range from $500 to $1,800. This includes the cost of a 3-month, 6-month, or 9-month program, depending on the severity of the offense.
  • Second Time Offender: For second-time offenders, the cost of a DUI education program can range from $1,800 to $2,800. This includes the cost of a 18-month or 30-month program.
  • 6 month DUI Class (AB 762): The cost of a 6-month DUI class (AB 762) for first-time offenders is approximately $800.
  • 9 month DUI class (AB1353): The cost of a 9-month DUI class (AB1353) for first-time offenders is approximately $1,500.
  • 12 hour Wet Reckless class (SB1176): The cost of a 12-hour Wet Reckless class (SB1176) is approximately $300.

DUI PROGRAMS

  • Wet Reckless Program: A Wet Reckless Program is a DUI education program designed for first-time offenders. It is a 12-hour program that focuses on the dangers of drinking and driving. The cost of this program is approximately $300.
  • First Offender: For first-time offenders, the state of California requires attendance in a 3-month, 6-month, or 9-month DUI education program, depending on the severity of the offense. These programs focus on the dangers of drinking and driving and strategies for avoiding future offenses. The cost of these programs can range from $500 to $1,800.
  • 18-Month DUI Program: An 18-month DUI program is designed for second-time offenders. It focuses on the dangers of drinking and driving and strategies for avoiding future offenses. The cost of this program can range from $1,800 to $2,800.
  • 30-Month DUI Program: A 30-month DUI program is designed for repeat offenders. It focuses on the dangers of drinking and driving and strategies for avoiding future offenses. The cost of this program can range from $1,800 to $2,800.

WHAT TO DO AFTER DUI ARREST

If you have been arrested for DUI in California, there are a few steps you should take. First, you should contact a DUI attorney as soon as possible. They can help you understand your rights, defend your case, and possibly get your charges reduced or dismissed.

Second, you should attend your court hearing. Failure to appear at your hearing can result in additional penalties, including a warrant for your arrest.

Third, you should enroll in a DUI education program as soon as possible. This will show the court that you are taking the offense seriously and are committed to avoiding future offenses.

Contact John Campanella

John Campanella is a highly experienced DUI defense attorney based in Orange County, California. He has been practicing law for over 25 years and has devoted his career to representing individuals facing DUI charges. John is a graduate from McGeorge school of law, which is part of the University of the Pacific and has been admitted to practice law in the state of California since 1994.

Throughout his career, John has earned a reputation for providing exceptional legal representation and achieving favorable outcomes for his clients. He is known for his aggressive approach to defending DUI cases and his ability to navigate the complex legal system. John's extensive knowledge of DUI law and his attention to detail have enabled him to successfully represent clients in even the most challenging cases.

John is a member of the California DUI Lawyers Association and the National College for DUI Defense. He is also a certified instructor for the California State Bar's Mandatory Continuing Legal Education program. John is committed to staying up-to-date on the latest developments in DUI law and using this knowledge to provide the best possible representation to his clients.

COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT DUI

  • What is a DUI education program?

A DUI education program is a course designed to educate offenders on the dangers of driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

  • What are the benefits of completing a DUI education program?

Completing a DUI education program may result in reduced fines, shorter license suspensions, and a better understanding of the risks associated with driving under the influence.

  • How long is a DUI education program in California?

DUI education programs in California can range from 3 months to 30 months, depending on the severity of the offense.

  • How much does a DUI education program cost in California?

The cost of a DUI education program in California can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the program and severity of the offense.

  • Can I take DUI classes online in California?

Unfortunately, you still CANNOT take California DUI school online.

  • Can I take DUI classes before court in California?

Yes, you can enroll in a DUI education program before your court date. You can enroll via the DMV Admin Per Se procedure prior to your court hearing.

  • How do I enroll in a DUI education program in California?

To enroll in a DUI education program in California, you will need to contact a certified program provider and register for the appropriate program.

  • Can I refuse a DUI test in California?

Refusing a DUI test in California can result in a license suspension and additional penalties.

  • What is the best defense against a DUI?

The best defense against a DUI is to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

  • Should I get a lawyer for a DUI in California?

It is recommended to hire a DUI attorney in California to help navigate the legal process and potentially reduce penalties.

  • What happens if I am arrested for DUI in California?

If you are arrested for DUI in California, you may be required to attend a DUI education program, pay fines, and face other legal penalties.

  • How long does a DUI stay on your record in California?

A DUI conviction can stay on your record in California for 10 years.

  • Can I get a DUI expunged in California?

A DUI conviction cannot be expunged in California, but it may be possible to have it reduced to a lesser offense.

  • Can I still drive after a DUI in California?

If you are convicted of DUI in California, your license may be suspended, but it may be possible to obtain a restricted license that allows limited driving privileges.

  • What is a wet reckless in California?

A wet reckless is a plea bargain for a DUI charge that reduces the charge to reckless driving involving alcohol.

  • How do I get a wet reckless in California?

A wet reckless can only be obtained through a plea bargain negotiated with the prosecutor.

  • What is a first offender DUI program in California?

A first offender DUI program is a 3 or 6-month education program required for first-time DUI offenders in California.

  • What is a second offender DUI program in California?

A second offender DUI program is an 18 or 30-month education program required for repeat DUI offenders in California.

  • What is an AB 762 DUI program?

An AB 762 DUI program is a 6-month education program required for first-time DUI offenders in California.

  • What is an AB 1353 DUI program?

An AB 1353 DUI program is a 9-month education program required for first-time DUI offenders in California.

  • What is an SB 1176 DUI program?

An SB 1176 DUI program is a 12-hour education program required for wet reckless offenses in California.

About the Author

John Campanella

I have been representing people accused of drunk driving since I began practicing in 1995. I am active member of the National College of DUI Defense, a member of California DUI Lawyers Association, I am certified by the National Highway and Traffic Association for the administration of Field Sobriety Tests. I regularly attend DUI continuing education of the Bar, have tried over 35 Jury Trials, hundreds of pretrial motions and over 1000 DMV hearings all relating to DUI cases.

Comments

There are no comments for this post. Be the first and Add your Comment below.

Leave a Comment

Available 24/7

DUI Defense Since 1994
The Law Office of John Campanella is available to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please call today at (916) 498-8460 for a free consultation to go over the details of your case.

Office Location

Law Office of John Campanella
901 H St. Suite 301
Sacramento, CA 95814
Hours: 8:30 – 5:00 M-F
Phone: (916) 498-8460
Fax: (916) 476-6350
Get directions on the map →

Menu