Will a DUI from Another State Prevent Me from Getting a California Driver’s License?
Will a DUI from Another State Prevent Me from Getting a California Driver’s License?
If you have a DUI conviction from another state, you may be concerned about whether it will affect your ability to obtain a California driver’s license. Since California is part of the Interstate Driver’s License Compact (IDLC), the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can access your out-of-state driving record and may place restrictions on your ability to get a new license. At Law Office of Robert Little, we assist individuals in Rancho Cucamonga with DUI-related licensing issues and help them understand their legal options.
A DUI from another state may prevent or delay your ability to obtain a California driver’s license if:
- Your previous state suspended or revoked your driving privileges due to the DUI. California typically will not issue a license until the out-of-state suspension is lifted.
- The DUI conviction meets California’s legal definition of a DUI, which could lead to additional penalties or restrictions when applying for a license.
- You have outstanding fines, DUI school requirements, or probation terms in the other state. The California DMV may require proof of compliance before approving your license application.
If you are facing challenges due to an out-of-state DUI, you may need to clear unresolved penalties, provide documentation to the DMV, or request a restricted license if eligible.
At Law Office of Robert Little, we help Rancho Cucamonga residents navigate California’s DMV process, resolve out-of-state DUI issues, and explore legal solutions to restore their driving privileges.

