What is a Critical Need License?

If you are under 21 and either DMV or the courts convict you of a Vehicle Code 23152, 23140 or 23136, the California DMV is going to suspend your license for one year.  For minors, there is a special restricted license, called a “critical need” driver’s license. The “critical need” is not like a restricted license for adults, as it is difficult to obtain. Just like the adult suspension, there is a 30 day period of complete non-restricted status with the critical need. After 30 days though, the minor can apply for a critical need license if the following prerequisites are met:

1. The minor actually completed a chemical test or a PAS with a 0.01% or more; and

2. There is an actual critical need to drive to school, work or medical appointments.

What constitutes a critical need?

1. School

2. Employment, but only if that employment is necessary to support yourself or your family.

3. Work for the family business, and the minors’ driving is essential.

4. Medical appointments of family member and the driving is essential.

Along with having a critical need to drive, the minor requesting a license must be in a situation where ;

1. There is no public transportation that is adequate; or

2. No private transportation in the household is adequate.

3. Walking/biking to the required destination is not a viable option

   It is important that you provide our office with current work or school schedules, pay stubs, and other relevant information. Once we have gathered the proper documentation, we will prepare and file a petition for you to request the DMV allow you to drive on a Critical Need basis.

We will submit a Critical Need License Application on your behalf:

Our office completes and submits a Critical Need License for all under 21 DUI clients. We will assess the situation, gather all necessary paperwork, complete a professional quality application, and communicate with the DMV in order to petition for your right to drive. Attorney Susan Hearne has successfully obtained numerous Critical Need Licenses for clients, and is an expert on the rules and requirements in order to successfully obtain a Critical Need License. Call the office of Nor Cal Criminal Law at 530-580-8529 if you have any questions, and are interested in retaining counsel for an Under 21 DUI.