- Jan 19
- AddictionTeen Substance Abuse
Most states require people to undergo a DUI evaluation after a drunk driving conviction. Often, it consists of a substance use disorder screening to determine the extent of your involvement with drugs or alcohol. Depending on this initial screening outcome, you might also need a comprehensive drug and alcohol assessment.
While a DUI evaluation is fundamentally for your benefit, it can be overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect. Here’s how to make the process as smooth as possible.
What Is an Alcohol and Drug Evaluation?
An alcohol and drug evaluation identifies the presence of substances and the extent of an offender’s relation with substances. This screening can also lead to treatment plans to help you address your specific circumstances.
Some states require a substance use disorder evaluation before sentencing you for a DUI. The assessment can sometimes reduce, eliminate, or increase penalties you would otherwise face. Other states require a completed evaluation within a certain period after sentencing as a condition of probation, deferred sentencing, or another similar program.
Ultimately, DUI assessments can reduce charges and ensure you complete treatment before a hearing officer reinstates your driving privileges — promoting road safety for you and other drivers.
What to Expect During a DUI Evaluation
DUI evaluations involve in-person interviews with a certified treatment provider. You’ll often answer questions surrounding your medical background, drug or alcohol use, drinking patterns, and personal attitudes. Evaluators might also use specific screening tools like these.
- Substance Use Disorder (Misuse) Subtle Screening Inventory: This questionnaire involves determining the severity of your addiction and your willingness to make lifestyle changes.
- CAGE questionnaire: The CAGE questionnaire involves four questions, including whether you believe you should cut down on drinking, how those close to you think about your substance use, whether you’ve ever felt guilty about drinking, and whether you’ve had a drink first thing in the morning.
- Alcohol Use Inventory: Another common test is the Alcohol Use Inventory, which is self-administered to help you determine whether you have an alcohol use disorder.
In Illinois, your evaluator must also compare your interview answers to your driving history, chemical test results, and Objective Test score and category. Your evaluator will then assign you a risk level to determine the type of treatment the court orders.
- Minimal risk: Your evaluator will assign minimal risk if your blood alcohol content is below a specific threshold and you’ve had no previous DUI convictions. Illinois Court and the Office of the Secretary of State generally recommend completing a minimum of 10 hours of DUI risk education if you are at minimal risk.
- Moderate risk: Moderate risk applies if your BAC is high in your current case without prior DUI convictions. The court might recommend 10 hours of DUI risk education, a minimum of 12 hours of early intervention, treatment, and an ongoing care plan following this risk assessment.
- Significant risk: Your evaluator will likely assign significant risk if you have previous DUI convictions or a high blood alcohol content. Following 10 hours of DUI risk education, you must also complete at least 20 hours of substance use disorder treatment and an ongoing care plan following discharge.
- High risk: If you show signs of a substance use disorder, your evaluator will assign high risk even if you don’t have prior DUI convictions. At this risk level, the court will generally recommend 10 hours of DUI risk education, a minimum of 75 hours of addiction treatment, and active participation in an ongoing care plan.
The Cost of a Substance Use Evaluation
The price of an alcohol and drug evaluation will depend on your specific provider. Generally, you are responsible for paying for your assessment and treatment program. However, many providers offer a reduced fee to those who can prove an inability to pay the full cost.
How to Get an Illinois Substance Use Evaluation
Illinois’ substance use evaluation process will vary depending on the county your case is in. You must undergo a DUI evaluation to conclude your case, and completing treatment can lead to reduced charges and reinstated driving privileges. It’s wise to schedule classes immediately, as the earlier you start, the more benefit to you.
Here’s how to get an Illinois substance Use evaluation across different counties.
- DuPage County: If your case is in DuPage County, you can start obtaining a drug and alcohol evaluation from DuPage County Court Services using the contact information on their website.
- Cook County: If your case is in Cook County, you must obtain an alcohol and drug evaluation from the Central States Institute using the contact information on their website.
- Outside DuPage or Cook: If your case is in a county outside of DuPage or Cook, including Kane, Kendall, DeKalb, Will, and McHenry, you can obtain a DUI evaluation wherever you’d like as long as the location has received licensure from the Illinois Department of Human Services and part of their approved provider list.
You have the right to reject your drug evaluation, withdraw from the process at any time, or seek a second opinion by obtaining another assessment. However, the court or secretary of state’s office will receive notification of your incomplete evaluation.
Get Compassionate Substance Use Disorder Treatment at Gateway Foundation
A DUI evaluation can address any addiction issues you might currently experience and help you avoid reoffending and risking public safety in the future. Your evaluator will determine your driving history and risk assessment, developing a comprehensive treatment plan for your unique circumstances.
You can find compassionate and individualized Illinois addiction treatment at Gateway Foundation. Our DUI program can determine the best solutions for your needs, helping you regain your license, life, and sobriety. We offer inpatient and outpatient treatment, support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, and individual counseling services — all of which can help you start your lifelong recovery journey and promote better health and well-being.
To learn more about our treatment services, contact us today.
