If you miss the ten-day window to request a DMV hearing, the department suspends your license automatically and you give up the right to challenge that suspension. The suspension takes effect once your temporary license expires, usually about thirty days after the arrest.
This is one of the harshest parts of the DUI process. The DMV suspension is separate from your criminal case, so even if things go well in court, the automatic suspension can still stand simply because the deadline passed. There is no hearing to argue the stop was bad or the breath test was flawed, because you never requested one.
Do not assume all is lost. In some situations you may still qualify for a restricted license that lets you drive to work, school, and treatment, sometimes with an ignition interlock device. And your criminal defense is completely separate, so there is still a case to fight in court where a reduction or dismissal remains possible.
A lawyer can tell you fast whether anything can be done about the suspension and how to get you driving again as soon as the rules allow. Learn about the 10-day rule and how a restricted license can keep you on the road.
This is general information, not legal advice, and every case is different. Call Crudo Law at (858) 622-7280 or visit /contact for a free, confidential consultation.