DUI license suspension hearings: deadlines by state
A DUI arrest usually starts two cases: the criminal case in court, and an administrative case about your driver's license. The license case moves fast, and in some states you have only 10 days to ask for a hearing.
Updated October 2026 · Sources are linked in the text · General information, not legal advice.
License hearing deadlines
| State | Time to request a hearing | Agency |
|---|---|---|
| California | 10 days | California DMV (Driver Safety Office) |
| Texas | 15 days | Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) |
| Florida | 10 days | Florida DHSMV (Bureau of Administrative Reviews) |
| Arizona | 30 days | Arizona Department of Transportation (MVD) |
| Georgia | 30 days | Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) |
From the notice date. Sources are on each state page. Other states have their own deadlines, often 7–30 days: check your notice.
Deadlines usually run from the date on your notice, not your court date. Read your notice: it's the document that controls.
Why the hearing matters
- It's often the only way to challenge the suspension before it starts.
- It can be an early look at the officer's evidence for your criminal case.
- If you miss the deadline, the suspension generally goes ahead automatically.
What to do today
- Find your suspension notice or temporary permit and the date on it.
- Count the days: weekends usually count.
- Talk to a DUI lawyer about requesting the hearing, or request it yourself the way your notice says.
Free tool
License suspension & deadline checker
Pick the state where you were arrested to see how long you have to ask for a license hearing and how long suspensions run.
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Quick answers
What if I missed the license hearing deadline?
Talk to a DUI lawyer anyway. Depending on the state there may be other options, such as a restricted or ignition interlock license.
Is the license hearing the same as my court date?
No. It's a separate administrative proceeding about your driving privilege; your criminal case continues in court.