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California DMV Re-examination Process In 2023


A Step by Step Guide for Drivers Who May Be Required to Appear for Reexamination

The California DMV Reexamination Process

The following is an overview of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) guide for drivers who may be required to appear for a general reexamination to prove that they are still fit to drive a motor vehicle safely. Every case is considered individually, and as such this information covers only the general guidelines regarding reexamination.

How Does DMV Decide Who Needs Reexamination?

California law requires the DMV to probe and reexamine an individual’s ability to continue driving a motor vehicle safely whenever there is a report of physical or mental conditions that could impact driving abilities, or if specific entries appear on one’s driving record. DMV receives a vast amount of information from multiple sources. Some of the possible avenues for DMV to receive information on an individual are as follows:

Physicians and surgeons are legally required to report to DMV any conditions, diseases, or disorders that may present any potential loss of consciousness, awareness, or control. Alzheimer’s disease and other conditions that could affect competency behind the wheel would require a physician to report, as well as any other conditions which the physician has concern regarding how it could affect someone’s overall ability to drive a motor vehicle safely.

Emergency medical workers who handle patients or victims who are suffering or experiencing rapid or sudden unexplained loss of consciousness, general awareness, or control in any way.

Law enforcement officers may alert DMV if they determine during a traffic stop that someone is a reckless driver exhibiting unsafe driving practices.

Law enforcement officers who have simply observed an individual driving in what appears to be a reckless or unsafe manner may submit to the DMV that the individual should be reexamined.

Driver license renewals done by mail or in person, in which an individual notes that they have a disorder or disability, or disease, that could affect their ability to safely drive a vehicle at certain times, or potentially ongoing.
A poor driving record with multiple traffic law violations, a history of reckless driving, collisions, fraudulent activity regarding licensing, etc.

Concerned family members, people in an individual’s community, or friends who write letters to the DMV regarding a particular individual’s possible inability to continue driving safely.

What is the Process if DMV Determines I Must Be Reexamined?

If the DMV deems, via some notification process, that an individual has a condition, driving record, or other situation that could impact their ability to drive safely, the DMV will then require a reexamination to fully evaluate driving abilities. Some of the ways the DMV might do their investigation during the process are as follows:

The DMV may ask an individual to provide official medical records that demonstrate proof that the individual is competent to drive safely. Medical proof is one way a driver can possibly maintain their driving privileges.

The DMV may decide to have a series of intermittent examinations, possibly in person, or via phone. And again, medical records may be required that demonstrate that continued competency exists to drive safely. Additionally, general DMV testing may be required of the driving candidate, such as testing of driving law knowledge, vision tests, and of course actual physical driving tests.

Individuals who have been flagged for ‘priority reexamination’ are required to get in touch with Driver Safety within a five-day period or driver privileges will be suspended indefinitely. And again, the DMV may require medical records, and testing of driving law knowledge, vision tests, and of course actual physical driving tests.

The DMV does hold the power to immediately revoke or suspend driving privileges in any case such that mental or physical conditions indicate that an individual’s driving practices pose a threat to public safety in general.

What Decision Will the DMV Make Regarding My Case, After the Reexamination Process?

After a reexamination process has been completed, a DMV hearing officer could elect to make any of the following legal action responses:

No Action Response

The ‘no action’ response is obviously the response drivers hope for after a reexamination. With a no action response the driving candidate is allowed to continue driving freely with no restrictions.

Medical Probation Response (Type I)

This response requires a driver to comply with a complete medical regimen and consistently report back to the DMV as changes occur in their medical condition.

Medical Probation Response (Type II)

This response mandates that an individual’s physician submit ongoing, periodic medical reports to the DMV on set dates orchestrated by the DMV.

Calendar Reexamination Response

In this response individuals are required to appear for an additional follow up reexamination.

Restriction Response

With a restriction response an individual will no longer be allowed to drive freely, but will be awarded driving privileges that must adhere to specific conditions and circumstances set by the DMV. Possible restrictions could be as follows: daylight driving only, driving only in select predetermined geographical areas, mandated outfitting of one’s vehicle with specialized equipment to facilitate safe driving, or other reasons.

Suspension Response

With a suspension response the DMV has deemed that driving privileges should be suspended for an undetermined period. An individual may be able to reinstate driving privileges by demonstrating that they are taking actions to address the mental or physical condition, or reckless driving or poor driving record that led to their driving suspension. If the DMV decides that the individual is no longer a risk to public safety, driving privileges may be reinstated, but it is on a case-by-case basis, so there is no guarantee that anyone who has been suspended will be reinstated quickly, or at all.

Revocation Response

With a revocation response, driving privileges have literally reached the end of the road. In this case, the DMV has determined that a physical or mental condition is severe enough that the individual will not likely ever improve to the point of being able to safely drive a vehicle. Additionally, revocation could be the response for drivers who have continued to demonstrate completely reckless driving behavior or have been involved in major driving accidents such that the DMV decides the driver poses an ongoing threat to public safety.

Top Gun DUI Defense Attorney Myles L. Berman

Myles L. Berman provides legal guidance on the California DMV Re-examination Process.

Call now for a free case evaluation (805) 953-7066.

What Will Happen if the DMV Decides to Take an Action Against Driving Privileges?

If the DMV decides to take an action against a driver’s privileges the DMV will notify the individual in writing regarding the following:

  • Any and all action taken
  • An individual’s legal rights, including their legal right to a hearing on the issue

For more detailed information on the complete Driver Safety Administrative Hearing Process (FFDL 26), refer to the DMV website at: www.dmv.ca.gov.

What Would Happen if I Did Not Appear for My Reexamination?

Individuals who fail to appear for the reexamination process as directed by the DMV, whether it was an in-person interview proceeding or scheduled phone interview, will have their driving privileges suspended. This suspension will be ongoing until the individual actually appears and provides the information, or submits to testing as mandated by the DMV.

NOTE: An individual must appear as requested by the DMV. Another person cannot appear on an individual’s behalf, but the DMV will allow another person to accompany an individual to the proceedings or interview with the DMV.

Is the DMV Allowed to Reexamine Me if I Have No Medical Problems, But My Driving Abilities Are, In Fact, Deteriorating?

Yes, the DMV can determine an individual warrants reexamination if any incoming information indicates that an individual’s driving abilities may be compromised in any way.

Is There a Certain Age the DMV Automatically Reexamines Drivers?

No, the DMV does not reexamine drivers based on age.

How Long Could Driving Privileges Be Suspended or Revoked After Reexamination?

The period of suspension or revocation is indefinite, and on a case-by-case basis. It is important to note, however, that the DMV will consider reinstatement of driving privileges in the following scenarios:

When new information becomes available to the DMV that indicates a physical or mental condition has been addressed and controlled, and will no longer pose a potential threat to safe driving practices.

An individual’s driving record no longer shows negligent driving activities.

What if I Need an Interpreter?

Individuals who require a sign language or foreign language interpreter will receive the necessary assistance through the DMV. Individuals requiring special assistance in this manner should contact the DMV early, in advance, to ensure that an interpreter or sign language specialist will be available on the date of the reexamination proceedings.

Codes and Regulations

The California Code of Regulations (CCR) §100.01 as well as the California Vehicle Code (CVC) §§12818, 13800, and 13801, govern all the Driver Safety reexaminations conducted by the DMV.

The CCR and CVC can be accessed through public libraries and are also available for review from DMV Driver Safety branch offices. The CVC can also be found on the DMV’s website at www.dmv.ca.gov.

Navigating the Legal Proceedings Associated with a DUI Charge

Dealing with the aftermath of a DUI arrest in Irvine, California can be overwhelming. It is like navigating a minefield. One wrong decision or failure to take a specific action at the appropriate time can be devastating. There are many questions to be answered. Will my driver’s license be suspended? Will I be able to drive to work? Will the DMV automatically send me a police report before my DMV hearing?

Knowing what steps to take after being arrested for a DUI is critical. A DUI probation lawyer can advise you on the decisions you need to make and answer any questions you have about your case. The lawyer represents you throughout the various legal proceedings in criminal court and at the California Department of Motor Vehicles administrative hearing, also known as an admin per se (APS) hearing.

Will the DMV Automatically Send Me a Police Report before my DMV Hearing?

There are three ways to get a copy of a police report for a DUI arrest in California. You could visit the local police department to request a copy of the police report. The police department is not required to provide the information to you if the report contains confidential information such as addresses and phone numbers of witnesses. However, they may provide a report with the confidential information removed.

The California Department of Motor Vehicles is another source for getting the police report. The DMV accepts requests for a police report as long as you make your request within the 10-day time period for scheduling an APS hearing for the opportunity to prove that the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license is not warranted. They will mail a copy of the police report to you or your attorney so you can prepare your defense for the APS hearing.

If you refused to submit to a chemical test during your arrest for a DUI, having a criminal defense lawyer represent you at the DWI refusal hearing at the DMV is strongly advised. The lawyer can request the police report along with the results of any breath, blood, or chemical tests and other legal information related to the case.

You have an opportunity to obtain a copy of the police report at your arraignment hearing in court. The court explains the DUI charges at the arraignment hearing, and you are given an opportunity to plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Your lawyer can explain the charges and various pleadings to help you decide how to plead your case. The lawyer may ask the prosecution to provide copies of lab results and other documents related to your case at the arraignment hearing.

This is a crucial hearing for several reasons. Most importantly, failing to be present for the arraignment could result in a contempt of court charge and the judge could issue a warrant for your arrest.

Will I Be Arrested at the DMV With a Warrant?

The DMV has an APS hearing to review the circumstances of your DUI arrest and determine the status of your driving privileges. There is no decision about whether you are guilty or innocent of criminal charges at this hearing. Therefore, it is doubtful that you will be arrested at the DMV.

With a 2nd DUI Will I Be Able to Drive to Work With an Interlock?

Specific laws require the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) if you have a DUI. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) currently has a statewide IID pilot program for DUI offenders convicted of a DUI offense on or after January 1, 2019. Repeat and injury-involved DUI offenders are required to install an IID in the vehicle they use for transportation.

Depending on your situation with a second DUI, the court may order you to install an IID in your vehicle. The state of California has certified IID installers that are required to have a license issued by the Bureau of Auto Repairs or the Bureau of Household Goods. There are fees associated with the installation and monitoring of IIDs. You are permitted to drive at any time as long as your vehicle has an IID installed and there are no restrictions as to where you can travel.

There are many facets of successfully defending a DUI charge in Irvine, California. An experienced DMV lawyer can help you successfully adhere to the requirements and procedures laid out by the court system and the Department of Motor Vehicles.

For Your Convenience: Driver Safety Offices

Individuals with questions or concerns may contact the DMV Driver Safety offices for Driver Safety office location information, general information, and hours.

Bakersfield
Phone: (661) 833-2103
Fax (661) 833-2102

Redding
Phone: (530) 224-4755
Fax (530) 224-4737

City of Commerce
Phone: (323) 724-4000
Fax (323) 724-9262

Sacramento
Phone: (916) 227-2970
Fax (916) 227-2901

City of Orange
Phone: (714) 703-2511
Fax (714) 703-2525

San Bernardino
Phone: (909) 383-7413
Fax (909) 383-7439

Covina
Phone: (626) 974-7137
Fax (626) 974-7118

San Diego
Phone: (858) 627-3901
Fax (858) 627-3925

El Segundo
Phone: (310) 615-3500
Fax (310) 615-3581

San Francisco
Phone: (415) 557-1170
Fax (415) 557-7375

Fresno
Phone: (559) 445-6399
Fax (559) 445-6379 or 445-6396

San Jose
Phone: (408) 229-7100
Fax (408) 229-7128 or 229-7129

Oakland
Phone: (510) 563-8900
Fax (510) 563-8950 or 563-8951

Van Nuys
Phone: (818) 376-4217
Fax (818) 376-4215

Oxnard
Phone: (805) 988-3050
Fax (805) 988-1420

Top Gun DUI Defense Attorney Myles L. Berman

Myles L. Berman provides legal guidance on the California DMV Re-examination Process.

Call now for a free case evaluation (805) 953-7066.

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