New Law Stops Suspension for Non-Vehicle Related Crimes
Since January 1, 2020, a Californian law stops courts from suspending or restrict a person’s driver’s license for some offenses that are non-vehicle related.
It includes offenses related to:
- Vandalism
- Controlled substance or alcohol use, possession, or related conduct
- Firearm use
Under this Californian law, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may not delay licensure for a person convicted of such crimes, including a minor convicted of unlawful possession or use of a firearm.
Offenses Involving a Vehicle
Regardless of whether a vehicle was involved or not, the court or DMV can no longer suspend (or delay) a license for:
- A conviction of soliciting or engaging in prostitution or specified lewd or dissolute conduct.
- A conviction related to possession, purchase, sale, or transport of controlled substances.
Other vehicle-related offenses, such as driving under the influence (DUI), are not covered by this new law and will still have severe consequences, including license suspension or revocation.
Read more in the California Driver Handbook.
Learn More
- Understand the Difference Between a Revoked and Suspended License
- California Road Signs and Traffic Signals Test
- California Road Sign Quiz – 20 Road Signs You Must Know
- Can You Turn Against a Red Arrow?
- What You Must Know about California Alcohol Laws
Cover photo: Patrick Fore on Unsplash.
