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HomeVehicle CodeDiv. 6Ch. 2Art. 4§ 13556 License Suspension Limits

§ 13556 License Suspension Limits

Vehicle Code·California
AI Summary·Official Text·Key Terms·Related Statutes·References
AI SummaryVerified

§ 13556 License Suspension Limits

This law says how long the DMV can take away your driver's license. Usually, it can't be longer than 6 months, but sometimes up to 12 months if they could have taken it away forever.

Key Takeaways

  • •Your license can't be suspended for more than 6 months unless it's a really bad case.
  • •If your license is suspended for something you need to fix (like a medical issue), it stays suspended until you prove you're better.
  • •If your suspension depends on you doing something and it's been 8 years, the DMV can choose to end it.

Example

If you get caught driving recklessly, the DMV might suspend your license.

They can take it away for up to 6 months, or up to 12 months if it's really bad.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source
View on CA.gov

§ 13556 License Suspension Limits

(a) Unless otherwise specifically provided in this chapter, no suspension of a license by the department shall be for a longer period than six months, except that the department may suspend a license for a maximum period of 12 months in those cases when a discretionary revocation would otherwise be authorized pursuant to this chapter. (b) Any discretionary suspension, the ending of which is dependent upon an action by the person suspended and which has been in effect for eight years, may be ended at the election of the department. (c) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this code, a suspension based upon a physical or mental condition shall continue until evidence satisfactory to the department establishes that the cause for which the action was taken has been removed or no longer renders the person incapable of operating a motor vehicle safely. (Amended by Stats. 1982, Ch. 612, Sec. 1.)

Last verified: January 9, 2026

Key Terms

suspensiondiscretionary revocationphysical or mental conditiondepartment

Related Statutes

  • § 13102 Driver License Suspension Rules
  • § 6051 Vehicle Transfer Requirements
  • § 11300 Vehicle Verifier Permit Requirement
  • § 11301 Vehicle Verifier Bond Requirements
  • § 13202.5 Underage Driving Privilege Suspension

References

  • Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
  • California Legislature. Vehicle Code. Section 13556.
View Official Source