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HomeVehicle CodeDiv. 6Ch. 3Art. 1§ 13800 Driver License Suspension Grounds

§ 13800 Driver License Suspension Grounds

Vehicle Code·California
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§ 13800 Driver License Suspension Grounds

The DMV can look into a driver’s record and may suspend or take away their license if they cause serious accidents, have many crashes or drunk/drug offenses, drive recklessly, let someone use their license illegally, or have other reasons a license could be denied.

Key Takeaways

  • •The DMV can start an investigation based on accident or offense information.
  • •Three accidents in a year, or three serious offenses/drunk‑driving incidents in three years, can trigger a license suspension.
  • •Reckless, negligent, or incompetent driving, illegal use of the license, or drug convictions are also grounds for action.

Example

A driver gets into three separate car crashes within one year.

Because the driver was in three accidents in 12 months, the DMV can investigate and may suspend the driver’s license.

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

Official Source
View on CA.gov

§ 13800 Driver License Suspension Grounds

The department may conduct an investigation to determine whether the privilege of any person to operate a motor vehicle should be suspended or revoked or whether terms or conditions of probation should be imposed upon receiving information or upon a showing by its records: (a)That the licensee has been involved as a driver in an accident causing death or personal injury or serious damage to property. (b)That the licensee has been involved in three or more accidents within a period of 12 consecutive months. (c)That the person in three consecutive years has committed three or more offenses that have resulted in convictions involving the consumption of an alcoholic beverage or drug, or both, while operating a motor vehicle, including, but not limited to, offenses under Section 23103.5, 23152, 23153, 23222, or 23224; has been involved in three or more crashes in which the crash reports show that the person was driving and had consumed alcoholic beverages or drugs, or both; or had any combination of three or more of those offenses and crashes. (d)That the licensee is a reckless, negligent, or incompetent driver of a motor vehicle. (e)That the licensee has permitted an unlawful or fraudulent use of their driver’s license. (f)That any ground exists for which a license might be refused. The receipt by the department of an abstract of the record of conviction of any offense involving the use or possession of narcotic controlled substances under Division 10 (commencing with Section 11000) of the Health and Safety Code shall be a sufficient basis for an investigation by the department to determine whether grounds exist for which a license might be refused.

Last verified: February 26, 2026

Related Statutes

  • § 13801 License Re-Examination Requirement
  • § 13802 Vehicle Use Consideration
  • § 16430 Vehicle Financial Responsibility Requirements
  • § 16431 Insurance Proof For Vehicles
  • § 16433 Insurance Cancellation Notification Requirement

References

  • Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
  • California Legislature. Vehicle Code. Section 13800.
View Official Source