The Role of Alcohol Education Programs After Conviction

What these programs are designed to do

California’s DUI education programs are state-licensed and supervised by the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS). The objective is to reduce repeat offenses through education, counseling, and accountability—not simply to “check a box.” DHCS overview.

Program lengths by conviction

First offense on probation (VC §23538): Courts must order enrollment and completion in a licensed program. By statute:

• 3-month (30 hours) if BAC is under 0.20%. VC §23538(b)(1)
• 9-month (60 hours) if BAC is 0.20% or more, or on a chemical-test refusal. VC §23538(b)(2)

Wet reckless (reduction from DUI): A “wet reckless” disposition triggers a 12-hour DUI education component (often called SB 1176/AB 803). DHCS DUI Programs

Second and subsequent offenses: DHCS specifies an 18-month multiple-offender program statewide and notes some counties offer a 30-month track for higher-risk histories. DHCS DUI Programs

What’s inside the curriculum

• Education sessions + group counseling + individual interviews (hour totals vary by track). VC §23538(b)
• Multiple-offender tracks (18 months) include structured group hours, education, periodic individual interviews, and a monitored re-entry phase (county specifics vary; DHCS licenses providers). DHCS DUI Programs

Court orders vs. DMV: two different systems

The court’s program order is a criminal-case condition of probation. Separately, the DMV can impose an Administrative Per Se suspension/revocation. To contest that, you generally must request a DMV hearing within 10 days of the notice. DMV DUI (APS)

How legal advocacy can affect program length

Defense advocacy does not “shorten” a statutory program once imposed; instead, it seeks a different conviction outcome that carries a different program requirement. For example, negotiating a reduction from DUI to wet reckless may change the obligation from 3–9 months to 12 hours when the facts and history support it. DHCS DUI Programs

Our team aligns the plea posture with program and DMV exposure, then helps you enroll with an approved Orange County provider. See: DUI penalties and License suspension.

Costs and financial hardship

Programs set fees under state oversight; financial assessments can qualify some participants for significantly reduced monthly payments or extended plans. DHCS: DUI Program Fees

FAQs

Which program will I have to take?

The statute and your conviction control the length (e.g., 3 or 9 months under VC §23538 for first offenders; 12 hours for wet reckless; 18 months for second offenses). Links above cite each rule.

Can I do classes online?

Delivery methods and acceptance vary by court/county/provider. Follow the court order and enroll with a licensed program to ensure credit. DHCS licenses and monitors DUI programs statewide. DHCS overview

How fast must I act with DMV?

You generally have 10 days from notice to request an APS hearing. DMV DUI (APS)

Talk with Braden & Tucci

We align court strategy, program selection, and DMV defense to minimize downtime and risk. Call (949) 996-0170 or visit caduilaw.com.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and not legal advice. Outcomes depend on facts and jurisdiction. Consult an attorney about your situation.