DWI Alcohol Assessment in North Carolina

The punishment for a DWI conviction in North Carolina varies from case to case. Regardless of the specifics of your sentencing, if you are convicted of a DWI in our state, you will be required to take an alcohol assessment. If you do not complete the assessment, you will not be able to have your license reinstated.

More Than a Test

An alcohol assessment is really a two-part process that begins with the actual assessment and continues with a recommended treatment plan. Your attorney will refer you to an agency that is licensed as a North Carolina DWI services provider, where your assessment will take place. You must bring several documents with you to the assessment, including your complete driving record, your DWI citation and confirmation of your BAC at the time of your arrest.

The DWI assessment will consist of questions that will help the substance abuse professionals at the service provider determine what treatment you need. Based on the results of the assessment, you will be required to attend either alcohol drug education traffic school (ADETS), short term outpatient treatment, long term outpatient treatment, day treatment or inpatient/residential treatment.

Costs to Consider

It is essential for you to complete an alcohol assessment and the subsequent recommended treatment in order to get your license back after a DWI conviction. Keep in mind that neither the assessment nor the treatment is free. The DWI assessment is $100. If you are referred to complete the 16-hour ADETS class, it will cost $160. If you are referred to treatment program, the costs could range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, as these rates are not set by the state.

Keep in mind that you only have six months from the date of your DWI assessment to begin your ADETS classes or treatment program. It is also possible that your may also recommend that you complete the alcohol assessment in advance of any potential sentencing to show the court that you are serious about your pending charges. Taking this proactive step may help your case.

If you have questions about North Carolina’s DWI assessments, a local DWI defense lawyer can help.