Restoring CA DL after out-of-state DUI

[RMCullen]

Current state: Tennessee and California

I recently discovered my CA license was suspended/revoked after a 2004 DUI-conviction in Kentucky (I live in Tennessee). I completed all requirements put forth by the state of KY but I was unaware the different states "talked". I was pulled over last month for speeding in Tennessee (85mph in a 70) and issued a Driving on Suspended License ticket. My first issue: does anyone know the penalties in TN for Driving on a Suspended license? My court date is in one month and I'd like to know what to expect (minimum/maximum penalties). (Luckily, I was able to talk my way out of getting my truck impounded. )

The second issue pertains to my CA license. I'm in the US Army and unable to relocate to CA in order to satisfy the CA DMV's requirement of a three month-long DUI Program. What can be done to restore my driving privileges in CA (or any other state) without physically moving to CA for three months? California's DMV tells me they don't accept out-of-state DUI Program Certificates of Completion (I unsuccessfully offered them my Kentucky certificate during a short visit over the holidays). Perhaps there exists a way I can plead my case to the DMV's Courts to accept an out-of-state program? I'm unable to get even a "restricted" license in TN for "to/from work" privileges and this is severely hampering my career and reputation amongst my peers and leadership.

If anyone has advice or information for a two-time Iraq Vet, I'm all-ears.

Thanks in advance.

- Ryan.

[FlyingRon]

OK, current active duty military now right? Were you on active duty when you got the DUI?


Of course the states communicate. All but five states transfer everything. Everybody transfers suspension info.

Driving while suspended in TN is a misdemeanor. You could spend up to a year in jail.

Sorry about your difficulties, but DUI wasn't meant to be easy. Nobody is going to issue any sort of llicense to you until you get straightened out in California.

There are however lawyers that specialize in dealing with these sort of issues involving the military, you'll probably need to obtain one of them.

[RMCullen]

Flying Ron,

I was actively-employed by the military at the time of the DUI (and subsequent conviction), but the DUI occurred on a public road and while off-duty.

Would you recommend consulting a lawyer that specializes in dealing with members of the military even though I'm not facing any actual punishment from the military?

Back to the DOSL charge.....can a misdemeanor like this be plead down to a fine and some sort of probation, or is jail-time likely? I realize you may not have specific knowledge on how TN practices law, but I appreciate the help.

Thanks.

[RMCullen]

After a wee-bit more research it looks likes I can obtain a Restricted License (for "to/from work" purposes, obviously) over the phone as long as I'm enrolled in a DUI First-Offender Program. Seeing as how I'll be getting out of the military in 2 months, this is a viable (read "only", haha) option.

If anyone wants an update to what further hurdles I encountered (and subsequently defeated), reply to this thread.

Thanks.