California DUI programs · Wet reckless (SB 1176)
California Wet Reckless Program (SB 1176)
If your DUI was reduced to a "wet reckless," the court commonly orders the SB 1176 program — California's shortest DUI education level, usually about 12 hours. It's still a DHCS-licensed, in-person program, not the quick online class you might find first. Here's who it applies to, how long it runs, and how to confirm a provider your court will accept.
Quick answer: how long, and can it be online?
About 12 hours, in person. The wet reckless (SB 1176) program is commonly six weekly two-hour sessions with a DHCS-licensed provider. A self-paced internet class does not satisfy California — confirm the format and the specific provider with your court before you enroll or pay.
Who the SB 1176 wet reckless program is for
A "wet reckless" is an alcohol- or drug-related reckless driving conviction (Vehicle Code 23103 pursuant to 23103.5) — often a DUI charge that a defense attorney negotiated down. Because it still involves alcohol or drugs, courts commonly attach the roughly 12-hour SB 1176 education program to it. You don't choose this level to save time; it goes with the specific conviction. This is general information, not legal advice, so confirm what your paperwork actually orders with your court, clerk, or attorney.
Program length and structure
| Program | Common length | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Wet reckless (SB 1176) | About 12 hours (commonly six weekly 2-hour sessions) | A "wet reckless" conviction (alcohol/drug-related reckless driving) |
The exact schedule and hour breakdown are set by the DHCS-licensed provider and your court order. Providers differ, so if you need the precise number of hours for your case, confirm it with your program.
Why the online class you found probably won't count: DHCS does not license any internet DUI programs, and states plainly that DUI classes offered via the internet do not meet California's requirements. To satisfy a California court or the DMV you generally must attend a DHCS-licensed program run from a physical California location. A licensed program may deliver some sessions by live video, but that is not the same as a self-paced out-of-state course.
Find a DHCS-licensed wet reckless program
Start from the official DHCS directory of licensed DUI programs, filter to the county handling your case, and confirm the provider offers the wet reckless level. Programs are administered county by county, so a provider accepted in one county is not automatically accepted in the next.
Source & accuracy: compiled from the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) and DMV. Program hours and requirements vary by county and by case — always confirm the exact program, format, hours, and an accepted provider with your court and the DMV before enrolling. Sources: dhcs.ca.gov/individuals/Pages/DUI_Programs.aspx, dhcs.ca.gov/individuals/Pages/DUIProgramLicensing.aspx, dmv.ca.gov.
Other California DUI program levels
Not sure this is the level on your order? Compare the other California DUI programs — the level is set by your conviction, BAC, and record, not by choice:
- AB 541 first-offender program — About 3 months / 30 hours — the standard first-DUI program.
- AB 1353 (and AB 762) programs — The 9-month / 60-hour high-BAC program, plus the 6-month AB 762 version.
- SB 38 multiple-offender program — About 18 months — for a second or later DUI within 10 years.