A first DUI in California is generally classified as a misdemeanor.
Jail: 96 hours – 6 months; mandatory min none in practice — informal probation typically substitutes for jail
Fine: $390–$1,000 (base fine; with penalty assessments the real total is commonly ~$2,000+)
License suspension: 6 months (court) / 4 months (DMV APS) – 10 months (0.20+); hardship: IID for 6 months = full driving privileges (SB 1046), or restricted work/program license for 12 months without IID
Ignition interlock: Not required at this level — Optional on a first non-injury offense: install IID 6 months and keep unrestricted driving; mandatory 6 months on first DUI with injury.
Alternative disposition: Plea reductions ('wet reckless', VC § 23103.5) are common prosecutorial outcomes; a wet reckless still counts as a DUI prior for 10 years.
3-month DUI program (AB541) standard; 9-month program if BAC 0.20+. 3–5 years informal probation typical.
Lookback period: 10 years. Priors (including wet reckless) count for 10 years, measured offense-date to offense-date.
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