DMV Hearing Defense – Protecting Your License

A DUI, or other driving-related offenses in California, can have serious consequences, including suspension, revocation or restriction of your driver’s license. However, you have the right to challenge the suspension through a DMV hearing. This hearing is our opportunity to present a defense, contest the evidence, and fight for your ability to drive. 

At the Law Offices of Amber Bellante, I fight as hard for your driver's license in the DMV hearing as I do in your court case. I defend and advocate aggressively for my clients to retain or regain their driving privileges. Whether you're facing driver's license restrictions, suspensions, or revocations from a DUI arrest, negligent operator potential restrictions, suspensions or revocations, a refusal to submit to a chemical test allegation for a year long suspension, or other violations—I have the experience and legal strategies to help. If you have received a DUI or any type of DMV notice, including negligent operator, you must act quickly—we only have 10 days to request a hearing. Contact me today for a free consultation, and let me protect your driving privileges.

DMV Hearing Defense

Understanding DMV Hearings

A DMV hearing is an administrative process separate from a criminal court case. Unlike a court trial, a DMV hearing focuses only on the status of your driver’s license and whether the state has valid grounds for suspension or revocation.


  • Common Reasons for a DMV Hearing:


  • DUI-related suspensions (including first-time and repeat offenses)


  • Refusing a breath or blood test under California’s Implied Consent Law


  • Accumulating too many points on your driving record


  • Being labeled a negligent operator after multiple traffic violations


  • Driving on a suspended or revoked license


I understand the DMV’s procedures and will fight to challenge the evidence, present strong legal arguments, and seek alternatives to suspension whenever possible.

DUI & DMV Hearings

If you are arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), the arresting officer will confiscate your driver’s license and provide a 30-day temporary license. You must request a DMV hearing within 10 days to challenge the suspension. If you fail to do so, your license will be automatically suspended after 30 days.


  • Key Defenses in a DUI-Related DMV Hearing:


  • Lack of probable cause for the initial traffic stop


  • Improper administration of breathalyzer or field sobriety tests


  • Inaccurate BAC test results due to medical conditions or equipment malfunctions


  • Violation of your rights during the arrest process


  • Procedural errors made by the arresting officer or DMV


I will fight aggressively to prevent license suspension, obtain restricted driving privileges, or have your driving record cleared whenever possible.

License Suspension Due to Points or Negligent Operator Status

California operates under a point system, where too many violations can result in license suspension. If you accumulate 4 points in 12 months, 6 points in 24 months, or 8 points in 36 months, the DMV may classify you as a negligent operator and suspend your driving privileges.


  • Common Offenses That Accumulate Points:


  • Speeding tickets


  • Running red lights


  • Reckless driving charges


  • At-fault accidents


  • DUI or hit-and-run convictions


At the Law Offices of Amber Bellante, I can challenge traffic violations, request point reductions, and argue for alternative penalties to help you retain your license.

Refusal to Submit Chemical Test

California’s Implied Consent Law requires drivers to submit to a breath, blood, or urine test when lawfully arrested for DUI. Refusing to take this test can result in an automatic one-year license suspension—even if you weren’t intoxicated.


  • Defenses Against Chemical Test Refusal Suspensions:


  • Lack of proper advisement by law enforcement


  • Medical conditions preventing compliance


  • Unlawful DUI stop or arrest



Restricted and Hardship/Critical Need License

If your license is suspended, you may still qualify for a restricted license that allows you to drive to work, school, or necessary appointments. We help clients apply for and obtain hardship/critical need or restricted licenses so that they can continue their daily activities without major disruptions.

Why You Need A DMV Hearing Attorney

Many people assume that DMV hearings are just a formality, but in reality, they are high-stakes proceedings where having legal representation can mean the difference between keeping or losing your license.


At the Law Offices of Amber Bellante, I:


  • Handle all aspects of your DMV hearing, from scheduling the APS hearing to subpoenaing video and audio, retest blood results, etc.


  • Challenge the evidence against you and question law enforcement testimony


  • Present strong defenses and argue for alternatives to suspension

Contact Us Today to Protect Your Driving Privileges

If your driver’s license is at risk, you need to act fast. The Law Offices of Amber Bellante is committed to providing aggressive and effective representation at DMV hearings. Whether you are facing DUI-related suspension, a negligent operator hearing, or other DMV actions, we will fight to protect your driving privileges.


  • Book online or call us today for a free consultation and take control of your case before it’s too late.

Contact Us for Results

If you are facing DUI charges, don’t wait to seek legal representation. The Law Offices of Amber Bellante is dedicated to providing aggressive defense strategies to protect your rights, your license, and your future. Call us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward defending yourself against DUI charges.