DS 694 Form – If you are a California driver under 21 whose license has been suspended for a zero-tolerance alcohol violation, the DS 694 Form (Application for Critical Need Restriction) may allow you to obtain a restricted driver’s license. This official California DMV form lets eligible applicants request limited driving privileges for critical hardships such as family illness, school, work, or family business.
This comprehensive, up-to-date guide explains everything you need to know about the DS 694 PDF, including eligibility, how to download the form, step-by-step instructions, required supporting documents, and submission details. All information is based on the current official DS 694 form (REV. 5/2016) hosted by the California DMV.
What Is the DS 694 Form?
The DS 694 Form is the official Application for Critical Need Restriction issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) under California Vehicle Code (CVC) §13353.8(a). It is used exclusively by drivers who were under 21 years old at the time of arrest or detainment and whose driving privileges were suspended pursuant to CVC §§ 13353.2 and 13388 (zero-tolerance laws for underage drivers).
The form allows you to request a restricted license (often called a critical need or hardship license) after the mandatory 30-day suspension period. Approval is granted only when the applicant proves a specific hardship exists and that all other forms of transportation are inadequate.
Who Should Use the DS 694 Critical Need Restriction Application?
You should complete and submit the DS 694 PDF if you:
- Were under 21 at the time of the alcohol-related arrest or detainment.
- Submitted to a Preliminary Alcohol Screening (PAS) test or other chemical test requested by a peace officer.
- Have completed (or are completing) the mandatory 30-day suspension.
- Have a critical need to drive for one or more of these reasons: family illness, transportation to and from school/work, or family enterprise.
- Are legally present in California.
Note: This form is not for in-person submission at a DMV field office. It must be mailed to the Driver Safety Actions Unit in Sacramento.
DS 694 Form Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a critical need restriction:
- You must demonstrate specific hardship conditions (family illness, school, work, or family business).
- You must prove all other transportation is inadequate (public transit, carpool, taxi, bicycle, walking, family drivers, etc.).
- You must be legally present in California.
- A $100 reissue fee and SR-22 proof of financial responsibility (maintained for 3 years) are required if approved.
DMV approval is not guaranteed — strong documentation is essential.
How to Download the DS 694 PDF (Official Link)?
Direct official download (current version):
Download DS 694 Form PDF
This is the exact form provided by the California DMV (REV. 5/2016). Always use the latest version from the official DMV website to avoid delays or rejection.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filling Out the DS 694 Form
- Section 1 – Statement of Facts by Applicant (or parents if under 18)
Check one or more boxes:- A. For Family Illness
- B. To and From School
- C. To and From Work
- D. For Family Enterprise
Fill in your full name, DL number, date of birth, phones, and address. Then complete the corresponding Part A–E with detailed explanations of your transportation needs, household drivers’ schedules, why others cannot drive, and why alternative transport is impossible. Attach extra sheets if needed.
- Obtain supporting statements (see next section).
- Sign the Authorization and Certification (both parents must sign if you are under 18, unless one has sole custody).
- Attach all required supporting documents.
Required Supporting Documents for DS 694
- Physician’s Statement (Section 2) – Required for family illness. Includes diagnosis, prognosis, and confirmation that the condition prevents driving or use of public transit (including paratransit).
- School Principal/Dean Statement (Section 3) – Required for school hardship. Includes school schedule, hours, and why other transportation is inadequate. College students must attach a current class schedule printout.
- Employer Statement (Section 4) – Required for work hardship. Includes work hours, salary, location, and why the applicant’s driving is essential.
- Section 5 Certification – Signed by the physician, principal, or employer.
Medical information is confidential under CVC §1808.5. Include as much supporting evidence as possible (pay stubs, school letters, medical records) to strengthen your case.
Where to Mail the Completed DS 694 Application?
Mail the completed DS 694 form and all attachments to:
Driver Safety Actions Unit
2570 24th Street, M/S J256
Sacramento, CA 95818
Telephone: (916) 657-6452
Do not take the application to a DMV field office. Incomplete applications will be delayed or denied.
What Happens After You Submit the DS 694 Form?
DMV reviews the application and notifies you of approval or denial. If approved:
- Pay the $100 reissue fee.
- Submit SR-22 proof of insurance.
- Receive a restricted license allowing driving only for the approved critical needs (e.g., to school/work only, specific routes/times).
You must maintain proof of financial responsibility for three years.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of DS 694 Approval
- Be specific and honest — vague answers lead to denial.
- Prove “all other transportation is inadequate” (use “impossible” as a practical standard).
- Submit supporting letters and documents early.
- Keep copies of everything you mail.
- Consult a California DUI attorney if your situation is complex (many offer guidance on DS 694 filings).
Frequently Asked Questions About the DS 694 Form
Is the DS 694 form free?
Yes — the PDF download is free from the DMV website.
How long does DMV take to process DS 694?
Processing times vary; allow several weeks. Incomplete applications take longer.
Can I apply before the 30-day suspension ends?
No — the mandatory 30-day suspension must be completed first.
Is DS 694 only for DUI cases?
It is specifically for suspensions under CVC §§ 13353.2 and 13388 (underage zero-tolerance alcohol violations).
Can adults over 21 use this form?
No — this critical need restriction is limited to applicants who were under 21 at the time of the violation.
For the most current information, always refer to the official DS 694 PDF linked above and the California DMV website. If your license suspension involves additional issues, contact the Driver Safety Actions Unit at (916) 657-6452.
Need the form right now? Click here to download the official DS 694 PDF
This guide is for informational purposes only and is based on the current official California DMV DS 694 form (REV. 5/2016) as of 2026. Laws and procedures can change — verify details directly with the DMV.