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HomeVehicle CodeDiv. 6Ch. 3Art. 2§ 13953 Emergency License Suspension Authority

§ 13953 Emergency License Suspension Authority

Vehicle Code·California
AI Summary·Official Text·Related Statutes·References
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§ 13953 Emergency License Suspension Authority

The department can stop or limit someone's right to drive right away, without a hearing, if they think the driver or others on the road are in danger.

Key Takeaways

  • •The department can suspend or revoke a driver’s privilege without a hearing if safety is at risk.
  • •A written notice must be given, and the suspension usually starts 30 days later.
  • •If the driver’s mental or physical condition makes an immediate danger, the suspension can start right away.
  • •The department can also set probation rules that help keep driving safe.

Example

A driver has a medical condition that can cause sudden loss of consciousness while driving.

The department can immediately suspend the driver’s license without a hearing because the driver could crash and hurt themselves or others. They must send a written notice, but they don’t have to wait 30 days if they think it’s an emergency.

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

Official Source
View on CA.gov

§ 13953 Emergency License Suspension Authority

In the alternative to the procedure under Sections 13950, 13951, and 13952 and in the event the department determines upon investigation or reexamination that the safety of the person subject to investigation or reexamination or other persons upon the highways require such action, the department shall forthwith and without hearing suspend or revoke the privilege of the person to operate a motor vehicle or impose reasonable terms and conditions of probation which shall be relative to the safe operation of a motor vehicle. No order of suspension or revocation or the imposition of terms or conditions of probation shall become effective until 30 days after the giving of written notice thereof to the person affected, except that the department shall have authority to make any such order effective immediately upon the giving of notice when in its opinion because of the mental or physical condition of the person such immediate action is required for the safety of the driver or other persons upon the highways.

Last verified: February 26, 2026

Related Statutes

  • § 13950 Driver License Revocation Notice
  • § 13951 Driver License Denial Notice
  • § 13952 Proposed Action Hearing Notice
  • § 13954 Drunk Driving Crash Suspension
  • § 16450 Motor Vehicle Liability Policy

References

  • Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
  • California Legislature. Vehicle Code. Section 13953.
View Official Source