In North Carolina, a DWI (Driving While Impaired) conviction necessitates a substance use assessment and either an education or treatment program. Refusal of a breath test or a BAC over 0.14% automatically results in a treatment referral. A DWI Substance Use Assessment, conducted in person by an authorized provider, is mandatory for license reinstatement. Individuals must bring court papers to the assessment, and the assessor needs their "Complete Driving History" from the DMV. Assessments adhere to American Society of Addiction Medicine criteria for diagnosis and referral. If no diagnosis is given, referral to an education program is required. Providers must inform individuals of other local providers and cannot charge for transferring cases within North Carolina, though they may charge for special services or out-of-state cases.
The Alcohol Drug Education Traffic School (ADETS) is an educational program for those convicted of DWI who do not have an identified substance use disorder but may be at risk. ADETS uses PRIME for Life, an educational program focused on preventing alcohol and drug problems. Individuals have the right to ethical services based on their needs, may be asked to sign a treatment contract, and must be treated by a certified counselor. Treatment groups (limited to 20 clients) must be conducted by trained therapists for the scheduled time.
Out-of-state residents convicted of a DWI or underage drinking and driving in North Carolina must complete a substance use assessment and the recommended education or treatment for license reinstatement. If these services are completed outside of North Carolina, a North Carolina DWI services provider must review and approve them. It's recommended to contact a North Carolina provider before starting these services. The provider will review the documentation, process the information, and complete a Certificate of Completion (e-508 form) to resolve the North Carolina DWI offense. Individuals should keep a copy of this certificate.
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