Can I Remove a DUI From My DMV Record?
This is probably one of the most popular questions we hear. Unfortunately, there is currently no way to remove a DUI from your DMV record, as the DMV is and administrative state agency and they maintain their own records. Dismissal (expungement) under California Penal Code 1203.4 only removes the conviction from your criminal record, it does not effect your DMV record in anyway. A DUI or wet reckless conviction will give you 2 points and will stay on your DMV record for 10 years. This means that a single DUI conviction could increase your insurance premiums for up to 10 years.
Can You Drive For Uber / Lyft With A DUI On Your Record?
Unfortunately, the answer the to this question will be no in most circumstances. Both Uber and Lyft conduct a thorough driving record check, and a DUI conviction within the last 10 years is necessarily a disqualifying attribute. Having your DUI expunged does not allow you to drive for Uber or Lyft. However, having your DUI expunged will allow you to apply for other, non-driving, jobs without having to disclose your misdemeanor DUI conviction. This is a huge difference when applying for non-driving jobs, and could potentially be the difference between landing the job and getting in the unemployment line.
You may not be able to remove the DUI from your DMV record, but you can expunge the DUI from your criminal record, which can be very helpful with employment.
If Can't Erase My DUI From DMV, What's The Point Of Expungement?
A DUI effects your life in two distinct ways. First, it goes on your DMV record for 10 years, meaning higher insurance premiums, and an inability, typically, to secure any type of driving job. As discussed above there is not much that can be done to remove the DUI from your DMV record.
Second, a DUI is a misdemeanor criminal conviction (sometimes a felony if property damage or injuries were involved), and becomes a part of your criminal record. This means that employers, schools, and landlords can legally ask you about your DUI and can discriminate against you on the basis of you having a DUI on your record. Having the DUI conviction expunged (dismissed) pursuant PC 1203.4 removes the misdemeanor conviction from your criminal record. This allows you to answer "no" when asked if you have a criminal record on applications, and the DUI will no longer show on your criminal background checks. It is also against the law for anybody to ask you about the DUI once it has been expunged. Thus, DUI expungement offers gigantic benefits in your life.
You can learn about expunging your DUI from your criminal record HERE.
Second, a DUI is a misdemeanor criminal conviction (sometimes a felony if property damage or injuries were involved), and becomes a part of your criminal record. This means that employers, schools, and landlords can legally ask you about your DUI and can discriminate against you on the basis of you having a DUI on your record. Having the DUI conviction expunged (dismissed) pursuant PC 1203.4 removes the misdemeanor conviction from your criminal record. This allows you to answer "no" when asked if you have a criminal record on applications, and the DUI will no longer show on your criminal background checks. It is also against the law for anybody to ask you about the DUI once it has been expunged. Thus, DUI expungement offers gigantic benefits in your life.
You can learn about expunging your DUI from your criminal record HERE.
