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Home » Blog » DUI Rates and Charges in San Bernardino: A Step-by-Step Guide Through the Process

DUI Rates and Charges in San Bernardino: A Step-by-Step Guide Through the Process

Oct 9, 2025

Douglas Parker

DUI charges in San Bernardino are more common than many realize — especially near freeway corridors, nightlife zones, and high-enforcement areas.

You might be coming back from a weekend gathering or just cruising down I-215 when flashing lights suddenly change everything.

Getting arrested for a DUI is scary, stressful, and full of uncertainty. You may not know what’s coming next — or how quickly things move. But don’t panic. This guide breaks everything down in simple steps so you know what to expect.

With years of experience defending DUI cases in San Bernardino courts, Manshoory Law Group helps you navigate the process.

San Bernardino County is one of the busiest counties in California for DUI enforcement. Officers frequently patrol areas around major highways like I-10, I-215, and Highway 210, especially during nights and weekends.

Some of the most heavily watched zones include:

  • Downtown San Bernardino and nightlife districts
  • Freeway corridors where drivers often speed or drift
  • High school and college areas with young or underage drivers
  • Weekend checkpoint zones near event venues or suburban hotspots

According to local crime data, San Bernardino sees thousands of DUI arrests each year, with spikes during holidays, summer months, and high-enforcement weekends. Officers conduct frequent sobriety checkpoints, sometimes unannounced, targeting known DUI-prone areas.

When compared to the statewide average, DUI rates in San Bernardino tend to trend higher, especially for repeat offenders and drivers caught under the influence of drugs.

Nationally, the city ranks among California’s most active enforcement areas for DUIs, which means your chances of being pulled over are real — even if you feel fine.

Understanding these patterns helps explain why so many first-time offenders get caught off guard.

Common DUI Charges in San Bernardino

The type of DUI charge you get in San Bernardino depends on a few things: your BAC level, whether drugs were involved, your age, and any past DUI history. Here’s a closer look at the most common charges:

First-Time DUI

If your BAC is 0.08% or higher and it’s your first DUI arrest, you’re looking at a misdemeanor DUI — but it still comes with serious consequences:

  • Fines and court fees – You’ll likely pay well over $1,000, including penalties and assessments.
  • DUI education programs – A mandatory course lasting 3 to 9 months is standard.
  • License suspension – The DMV can suspend your license for 4 to 6 months unless you act quickly.
  • Probation or jail time – Judges often assign probation, but short jail terms (up to 6 months) are possible.
  • Criminal record – It stays on your record for 10 years and can affect job or school applications.

Most people arrested for a DUI in San Bernardino didn’t expect it. Even if you didn’t feel drunk, a small miscalculation can lead to a life-changing charge.

Underage DUI

San Bernardino strictly follows California’s zero-tolerance laws for drivers under 21. If you’re underage and caught with a BAC above 0.01%, you could face:

  • Immediate license suspension – Even if you weren’t impaired, your license can be taken on the spot.
  • Alcohol education – Special classes for underage DUI offenders are required.
  • Higher insurance costs – Insurers may drop coverage or raise your rates for years.
  • Misdemeanor charge – Even small amounts of alcohol can trigger a criminal charge.
  • Impact on school and work – A conviction may show up on background checks.

Underage DUIs often happen near high schools, college campuses, and party areas. Even one drink can set off a legal process that’s hard to undo.

High BAC DUI

When your BAC is 0.15% or higher, the courts label it as a high-risk DUI, which means harsher penalties across the board:

  • Longer DUI classes – You may be ordered to complete a 9- or 18-month program.
  • More jail time – Judges are more likely to assign jail, even for a first offense.
  • Increased fines – You’ll pay more in penalties than a standard DUI.
  • Mandatory IID (Ignition Interlock Device) – You’ll need to blow into a device to start your car.
  • Tighter restrictions – Probation rules get stricter, and you may face alcohol monitoring.

These cases often involve speeding, reckless driving, or an accident. The court assumes a high BAC shows poor judgment — and punishes it accordingly.

Drug DUI (Marijuana or Prescription)

A Drug DUI happens when you’re impaired while driving — even if there’s no alcohol in your system. This includes:

  • Marijuana – Legal to use, but illegal to drive under its influence.
  • Prescription drugs – Painkillers, anxiety meds, or sleep aids can impair judgment.
  • Over-the-counter meds – Even allergy pills or cold medicine can cause drowsiness.

Here’s what happens:

  • Field sobriety tests – Officers may call a DRE (Drug Recognition Expert) if they suspect drug use.
  • Blood or urine samples – Chemical tests are often used instead of a breathalyzer.
  • License suspension – Driving while impaired leads to automatic DMV action.
  • Court-ordered treatment – You may have to attend a drug program or counseling.

Drug DUIs are common in San Bernardino and often misunderstood. Just because a substance is legal doesn’t mean it’s safe to drive on.

Repeat DUI

A second or third DUI raises the stakes fast. San Bernardino courts take repeat offenses seriously. Penalties include:

  • Longer license suspensions – Up to 2 years for a second offense, and even longer for a third.
  • Mandatory jail time – You’ll spend time in county jail, no exceptions.
  • Extended DUI school – Up to 30 months of alcohol treatment and monitoring.
  • Ignition Interlock Device (IID) – Required on every vehicle you drive.
  • Possible felony charge – A fourth DUI in 10 years is typically charged as a felony.

If you’ve had a past DUI and get caught again in San Bernardino, expect aggressive prosecution. That’s why legal help is key — especially if you want to avoid harsher outcomes.

Why San Bernardino Clients Trust Manshoory Law Group for DUI Defense

When you’re dealing with a DUI arrest, you need a team that knows the local courts, local judges, and how to defend your rights effectively. Here’s why clients choose Manshoory Law Group:

  • 24/7 response for DUI arrests in San Bernardino – You can call anytime, even on weekends.
  • Personalized legal strategies tailored to your circumstances and goals – Every case gets a plan that fits your background, not a cookie-cutter approach.

We’ve helped drivers from all walks of life — from first-timers to professionals, students, and even commercial drivers — get fair treatment and strong outcomes.

What Clients Say

“They helped me keep my license and avoid jail time after my DUI arrest in San Bernardino. I couldn’t have asked for better representation.” – San Bernardino Client

Clients often say the process felt less overwhelming once they had legal guidance. They appreciated the honesty, fast responses, and step-by-step explanations.

Visit Our San Bernardino Office or Schedule a Virtual DUI Consultation

You don’t have to deal with this alone — and you don’t have to leave your house to get started.

You can meet us in person at our San Bernardino office or choose a same-day virtual consultation for more flexibility. Here’s what makes it convenient:

  • Easy-to-find location with Google Map directions
  • Fast appointment slots, including evenings and weekends
  • Virtual meetings for anyone who works or lives far from the office
  • Friendly staff who answer your questions clearly — no legal speak
  • Tailored help for residents across San Bernardino County

You can get real answers and a solid game plan the same day you call.

San Bernardino DUI FAQs

Do I need a lawyer for a first-time DUI in San Bernardino?

Yes. Even first offenses come with fines, classes, license issues, and a record. A lawyer can help reduce the charges, negotiate lighter penalties, or even dismiss the case.

Can I avoid jail time if I was arrested for DUI?

Possibly. With the right legal help, you may be eligible for probation, community service, or a treatment program — especially for a first offense.

How long will a DUI conviction stay on my record?

A DUI stays on your California record for 10 years. It affects future arrests, court decisions, and your ability to expunge the record.

Will my driver’s license be suspended automatically?

Not right away, but you only have 10 days to request a DMV hearing. If you don’t act fast, your license may be suspended automatically.

What’s the difference between the DMV hearing and my court appearance?

The DMV hearing is about your license. The court appearance is about your criminal charges. You must fight both — and each affects your outcome.

Arrested for DUI in San Bernardino? Contact Us Now.

Don’t wait. The first 10 days after your DUI arrest are critical for protecting your license and building a strong defense.

Request Free Case Review

Call 24/7 for Immediate Help

You still have options — and we’re here to help you make the most of them. Let’s take the next step together.

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