Frequently Asked Questions

What is the First Conviction Program?
The First Conviction Program is an educational program required by state law and the Department of Motor Vehicles for any person convicted of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol and or Drugs.

What if the court did not order me to do the program?
Even though the program may not be required by the court as part of your sentence, the Department of Motor Vehicles may require that you attend and complete the program in order to be eligible for getting your license back.

What are the program requirements?
The First Conviction Program is a three (3) month program. Following an initial enrollment interview, all participants complete a total of: 12 hours of education sessions; 18 hours of group counseling sessions; and 3 individual counseling sessions.

Will the program schedule conflict with my work schedule?
The program offers both day and evening sessions and makes every effort to set-up a schedule so it will not interfere with work or school.

Is there any way to "double-up" and go more often in order to finish faster than the full 3 months?
NO. You must be in the program for the full three (3) months.

What if I just wait out my suspension and not attend the program? Will I get my license back?
The DMV will provide you with a list of conditions you must meet before reissuing your license. One of these is proof of completion of a three month program.

Can I get a restricted license to drive to work and/or the program?
First time offenders who are enrolled in the program may be eligible for a restricted license. To obtain a restriction DMV will generally require that you enroll in a First Conviction Program, provide proof of financial responsibility and pay a re-issue fee to the DMV. You should be aware that the final decision is made by DMV.

How much does the program cost?
The cost of the program is $781.00 An initial downpayment is required at the time of the initial enrollment interview. The remaining balance is payable in monthly payments.

What If I do not have the money?
No one is denied program services. Financial arrangements are available. You must contact the program directly and request that a financial appointment be scheduled for you.

What If I move to another area?
Your program can be transferred to any other licensed drinking driver program in the State of California. To request a program transfer, contact the Ventura County Drinking Driver Program at (805) 981-9210.

I am very concerned about others knowing that I'm in this program. How does the program handle this?
Federal and State laws concerning participant confidentiality regulate very strictly how
information about anyone's program involvement can be disclosed. The program follows very strict procedures to ensure that these laws are followed.

What is the first step to getting enrolled in the First Conviction Program?
To get enrolled in the program, contact any of the four locations indicated below that is nearest you. Call the office at the site you have chosen and let them know you would like to schedule an enrollment appointment. The program staff will provide you with the necessary information for your first appointment.

Where are program sessions held in Ventura County?
You can attend the program at any of the four site locations throughout Ventura County.

Ventura Drinking Driver Program
24 East Main Street
Ventura, CA 93003
(805) 981-9210

Oxnard Drinking Driver Program
1911 Williams Drive
Oxnard, CA 93036
(805) 981-9210

Conejo Valley Drinking Driver Program
72 Moody Court
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
(805) 777-3506

Simi Valley Drinking Driver Program
4322 Eileen Street
Simi Valley, CA 93063
(805) 584-4883

We Are Committed to Making a Difference

The First Conviction Drinking Driver Program is a program of the Ventura County Behavioral Health Department Alcohol and Drug Program.