Bad boy KIEFER SUTHERLAND has begun his prison sentence for a drink-driving conviction, after surrendering to Los Angeles police last night!

The actor was scheduled to turn himself in on 21 December when hit show 24 was on a scheduled hiatus, but as the current writers' strike in Hollywood had stalled filming on the series, he made the decision to check in earlier.

Naughty Kiefy will serve 48 days at the private Glendale City Jail, spending Christmas, New Year and his birthday on 21 December inside (eeek!) Sutherland was handed the sentence after he was caught driving under the influence in September.

Just like in the movies, he's due to wear a standard-issue orange jumpsuit for the duration of his stay in the 48-cell facility, and came equipped with reading material and underwear when he booked into the prison, reports TMZ.com.

Apparently, Sutherland will not be subject to special treatment during his stay - and will be expected to perform laundry and kitchen duties like the other inmates.

A prison employee said, "The fact that he's a celebrity - he checked that at the door when he checked in."

Sutherland will not share a cell at the facility, as it is standard procedure for "long term" inmates to have their own accommodation, and the actor will serve the 48 days of his sentence consecutively.

Earlier in the day, Judge Stuart M. Rice also sentenced Sutherland to five years probation, and insisted the star must complete an 18-month alcohol education program and attend weekly therapy sessions for six months.

Gulp. Let that be a lesson to ya!?