A driving under the influence (DUI) arrest in California does not end when you leave the police station. Long after the court date passes, the record can follow you. It can affect your driver’s license, job prospects, and future background checks.
If you are trying to confirm what is on your record or what others can access, the challenge is often knowing where to look for your DUI records. California stores this information in multiple systems, which makes it easy to miss important details.
This article explains where to locate the records, how to request them, and what the information can mean for your future.
Key Takeaways: DUI Records in California
- To look up DUI records in California, you typically need to check both the California DMV for driving record information and the county court where the DUI case was filed.
- A California DMV driving record DUI entry focuses on license suspensions, restrictions, and reinstatement requirements, while court records provide details about charges, case status, and outcomes.
- DUI records California searches may not appear in a single database, so reviewing both administrative and criminal records helps ensure complete and accurate information.
- If a DUI record is sealed, dismissed, or appears inconsistent, speaking with a California DUI defense attorney can help clarify what is visible on background checks and what options may be available.
How to Look Up DUI Records Through the California DMV
If you are wondering how to look up DUI records, one of the most common starting points is the California Department of Motor Vehicles. The DMV maintains official driving records that show DUI-related license actions.
You can request your driving record using one of the following methods:
- Online request—requires creating a DMV account, paying a $2 fee (plus processing fee for credit card payments), and printing the record immediately;
- Mail request—requires submitting the proper form and a $5 fee; and
- In-person request—available at select DMV offices.
Once you receive your record, review it carefully. It will list suspensions, restrictions, and points, but it will not include full details of a criminal case. DMV records focus on driving privileges, not criminal guilt.
How to Look Up DUI Records Through California Courts
Court records provide details about the criminal side of a DUI case. Court records are essential for obtaining information about charges, case numbers, or outcomes.
Most California counties allow online case searches through their court websites. While systems vary, many let you search by name, case number, or date of birth.
When searching or requesting court records, keep the following in mind:
- Begin with the county where the arrest took place—DUI cases remain in the county of prosecution;
- Enter names carefully—even small spelling errors can limit results; and
- Review case status closely—some cases remain open or show partial information.
Reviewing court records carefully helps you understand the current status of a case. It can also help prevent misunderstandings about whether a DUI was resolved, dismissed, or remains open.
DUI Lookup in California for Someone Else’s Record
Many people ask whether a DUI lookup in California allows access to someone else’s records. The answer depends on the type of record.
Driving records are generally restricted to the individual, their attorney, or authorized parties. Court records are usually public, unless they are sealed or restricted by law.
Even when records are public, listings alone rarely tell the full story. They do not explain dismissals, reduced charges, or pending motions.
Why People Look Up DUI Records in California
People search for California DUI records for many reasons. Some want to confirm what appears on their own record after an arrest. Others need documentation for employment, licensing, or court-related issues. Many people want to know whether a past DUI still shows up and what consequences may still apply.
Regardless of the reason, the most critical step is identifying which agency holds the information you need.
What Counts as DUI Records in California?
A DUI record does not exist in a single database. California tracks DUI-related information through multiple systems, each serving a different purpose.
A DUI record may include:
- A criminal court case—shows charges filed, court dates, and case outcomes;
- A DMV administrative action—reflects license suspensions, restrictions, or reinstatement requirements; and
- A driving record—summarizes violations reported to the DMV.
Understanding the difference between these records helps you avoid confusion and ensure more accurate and complete searches.
What Happens If the DUI Record Is Old or Sealed?
California law allows certain DUI cases to be dismissed under specific conditions. If the court grants relief, the case may no longer appear in standard searches.
That does not always mean the record disappears entirely. Some government agencies may still access it for limited purposes.
If a record you expect to see does not appear, or if information seems inconsistent, the results may be incomplete rather than accurate.
When Legal Guidance Can Help
Finding your DUI record is only the first step. Understanding what it means and how it affects your options often requires legal insight.
DUI records can have far-reaching implications. They may impact driving privileges, professional licenses, insurance rates, and background checks. Knowing exactly what appears on your record allows you to address issues early and avoid unnecessary surprises.
An experienced attorney can review your record, explain relevant California law, and help you determine next steps. Having legal support is especially critical when records contain errors or unresolved issues. A lawyer can also help pursue options related to improving how your DUI record appears to others. Options may include corrections, dismissals, or record relief.
The Law Offices of Kerry L. Armstrong, APLC, Can Help You Find and Understand DUI Records (California)
California DUI records are not always straightforward. Sometimes you need help reviewing what appears on your file or determining how a DUI may affect your future. The Law Offices of Kerry L Armstrong, APLC, can help you understand your options and move forward with clarity.
Kerry Armstrong is board-certified in criminal law by the State Bar of California. He has earned repeated recognition from organizations such as Super Lawyers and the San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association. Our team has handled thousands of cases of evey type, and Kerry has tried over 100 criminal cases before a jury. The team understands how to thoroughly review records, identify potential issues, and effectively protect your rights at every stage of the process.
Contact our office today to learn how we can help locate and explain the impact of your DUI records.
How to Look Up DUI Records in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I look up DUI records in California?
+DUI records in California are usually found in more than one place. Most people start with a California DMV driving record for license-related actions, and then check California DUI court records for the criminal case details like charges, case status, and outcome.
What does the California DMV driving record show after a DUI?
+A California DMV driving record DUI entry typically focuses on driving privileges. It may show suspensions, restrictions, points, and reinstatement requirements, but it usually will not include the full details of the court case or the evidence involved.
How do I find California DUI court records for my case?
+For a California DUI court records lookup, start with the county where the arrest happened, since the case is handled there. Many counties offer online search tools, and you can also request records in person or by mail depending on that court’s procedures.
Can I do a DUI record check in California online?
+A DUI record check California online is sometimes possible through county court portals for public case information and through DMV services for your own driving record. Availability depends on the county and the type of record you are trying to access.
Will a DUI show up on my driving record in California?
+Yes. A DUI on driving record California reports typically appears as a DMV action or conviction-related entry, depending on the case outcome and what was reported. This is why it’s helpful to review both DMV and court records for a complete picture.
How do I get my DUI case number in California?
+If you need how to get DUI case number California information, you can often find it through the county court case search, your citation paperwork, booking documents, or court notices. If you cannot locate it, an attorney can often help identify the correct case file.
Can you look up someone else’s DUI record in California?
+Can you look up someone else’s DUI record California depends on the type of record. DMV driving records are generally restricted to the person listed and authorized parties, while many court case entries are public unless sealed or restricted.
Does a DUI show up on a background check in California?
+Background check DUI California results depend on what type of check is run and what records are being searched. A criminal court case is the most common source for background checks, while the DMV record is typically used for driving privilege and insurance-related review.
What if my DUI record is old, missing, or sealed in California?
+If a record is old, sealed, or updated through record relief, it may not appear in standard searches. Missing results can also happen because you searched the wrong county or a database is incomplete. When results are confusing, it helps to verify information through both DMV and court sources.
When should I talk to a San Diego DUI lawyer about my record?
+If you are unsure what appears on your DUI records California search, if your record contains errors, or if you are worried about jobs, licensing, or immigration consequences, a San Diego DUI lawyer can review the record and explain your options for corrections or record relief.
Kerry L. Armstrong
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