COSTA MESA, Calif. (Dec. 10, 2025) – The Costa Mesa Police Department (CMPD) will be conducting a driving under the influence (DUI) and driver’s license checkpoint on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. within the city limits.
Checkpoint locations are determined based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of DUI checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by distributing educational information and by taking suspected impaired drivers off the road.
“Impaired driving is preventable,” said Sgt. Nick Wilson. “If you’ve been drinking or taking drugs that impair, make the right choice by finding a sober driver or alternate transportation to take you places.”
“DUI and driver’s license checkpoints are a way to educate our community on the dangers of driving impaired in hopes that drivers plan ahead with alternative transportation when out drinking,” said Chief Joyce LaPointe.
CMPD reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.
Drivers caught driving impaired and charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.
Funding for this checkpoint is provided to CMPD by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Penalties for a First DUI in Costa Mesa, CA
- Probation: 3–5 years
- Fines: $390–$1,000 plus penalty assessments (total around $1,500–$2,000)
- Jail: Up to 6 months (often replaced with community service or work release)
- DUI School: Mandatory 3–9 months
- License Suspension:
- DMV: 4 months if BAC ≥ 0.08
- Court: Usually 6 months
- Ignition Interlock Device: Up to 6 months if you want to keep driving
- SR-22 Insurance Filing: Required for 3 years
Employment Impacts
- Time off for court, DUI school, and probation requirements
- At-will employment means termination is possible, especially if driving is part of your job
- Certain professions (healthcare, law enforcement, education, CDL drivers) may require reporting and could face disciplinary action
- Background checks: Employers can rescind offers if DUI is relevant to job duties
Auto Insurance Impacts
- Premiums can increase 28% to 370%
- SR-22 filing adds 24% to 208% more
- Rate hikes typically last 3–5 years, sometimes up to 7 years
- DMV keeps DUI on record for 10 years
- Average SR-22 premium in California: about $2,164/year (roughly 134% higher)
Immediate Steps After a DUI Arrest
- Request a DMV hearing within 10 days to challenge license suspension
- Consider an ignition interlock device for restricted driving
- Maintain SR-22 insurance without lapses
- Shop around for insurance—some carriers are more affordable post-DUI
- Consult a DUI attorney to explore defenses and minimize consequences