DMV-approved DUI classes are court-ordered or DMV-mandated education programs that teach the risks of impaired driving and substance abuse

When you're required to take a DUI class, it must be approved by your state's DMV or court system — not every education program counts. The approval means the curriculum meets state standards and the instructor is certified. Your court order or DMV notice will specify which type of program you need, how many hours, and the important date to complete it.

Finding an approved program near you starts with checking your court documents or DMV notice, which should list approved providers in your area or direct you to where that list lives online. Some states post searchable databases on the DMV website; others require you to call the court or a specific agency. The program you choose must be licensed in your state — taking a class in another state or an unapproved program will not satisfy the requirement and can result in license suspension or other penalties.

Key Takeaways

  • Your court order or DMV notice specifies the exact type of DUI class you need, the number of hours required, and the important date — check this document first before searching for programs.
  • Approved programs are listed on your state DMV website, through your local court, or by calling the agency that issued your order.
  • The program must be state-approved and licensed in your state; taking an unapproved class will not satisfy the requirement.
  • Completion certificates must be submitted to the court or DMV by the important date stated in your order, or your license may be suspended.

How to locate approved DUI programs in your state

Start by reviewing the paperwork you received from the court or DMV. Most court orders and DMV suspension notices include a list of approved providers, a website link, or a phone number to call for a current list. If that information is not in your documents, contact the court that issued the order or your state's DMV directly — they can tell you which programs are approved and currently accepting students in your area.

Many states maintain searchable online databases. For example, some states list approved providers by county or zip code on the DMV website. Others require you to call a specific phone line or visit the court clerk's office. A few states contract with a single statewide provider or a small network of providers, which narrows your search. Your state's DMV website usually has a section for DUI offenders or suspended drivers that explains how to find approved classes.

If you cannot find the list online, call your local court's probation department or the DMV's DUI program coordinator. Have your case number or citation number ready. They can confirm which programs are approved, whether they have openings, and what the cost is — fees vary widely by state and provider.

What information you need before enrolling

Before you register for a class, gather the following details from your court order or DMV notice: the type of program required (often called "Level 1," "Level 2," or "DUI School"), the total number of hours, the important date to complete it, and whether the program must be in-person, online, or a combination. Some states require in-person attendance; others allow online completion. Your order will specify.

You will also need to know whether you must pay a fee upfront or if payment plans are available. Approved programs can charge tuition, and costs range depending on the program length and your state. Ask the provider whether they accept payment plans, whether they offer any fee reductions, and what happens if you miss a class or need to reschedule.

Confirm the program's hours and schedule before enrolling. Some programs meet evenings or weekends; others run during business hours. Ask whether the provider offers multiple start dates or whether you must begin by a certain date. Verify that the program will issue a completion certificate and that they know how to submit it to the court or DMV on your behalf — some do this automatically, while others require you to request and deliver the certificate yourself.

In-person versus online DUI classes

Whether you can take an online class depends on your state and the type of offense. Some states allow online completion for first-time DUI offenders; others require in-person attendance regardless. Your court order or DMV notice will state which format is acceptable. If the order does not specify, contact the court or DMV to confirm before enrolling in an online program.

In-person classes typically meet one or more times per week for several weeks. You attend sessions in a classroom with an instructor and other participants. Online programs vary: some are self-paced, allowing you to complete modules on your own schedule; others require you to log in at specific times for live instruction. Hybrid programs combine recorded lessons with occasional in-person or live sessions.

Online programs are often faster to complete and more flexible, but they are not available in all states or for all offense types. If your state allows online classes, confirm that the specific program you choose is approved before you enroll. Some online providers are approved in certain states but not others.

Submitting your completion certificate to the court or DMV

Once you finish the class, the provider will issue a completion certificate. This document proves you met the requirement. Your next step depends on who issued the original order: the court or the DMV.

If the court ordered the class, you or the provider must submit the certificate to the court by the important date in your order. Some providers mail it directly to the court; others give it to you and expect you to deliver it. Ask the provider at enrollment who is responsible for submission and confirm they have the correct court address. Late submission can result in additional penalties or license suspension.

If the DMV issued the order, submit the certificate to your state DMV's DUI program office or the address listed in your notice. Again, ask the provider whether they will submit it or whether you must. Keep a copy for your records and consider sending it by certified mail so you have proof of delivery.

What to expect during a DUI class

DUI classes cover the effects of alcohol and drugs on driving ability, the legal consequences of impaired driving, and strategies for avoiding future offenses. The curriculum is set by your state and focuses on education rather than punishment. You will learn about blood alcohol content, how impairment affects reaction time and judgment, and the risks to yourself and others.

Most classes also include information about substance abuse treatment resources and support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. Some programs screen participants for substance abuse issues and may recommend further treatment. Attendance is mandatory — missing sessions can result in failure to complete the requirement, which triggers license suspension or other court consequences.

The instructor will take attendance at each session. Arrive on time and bring any materials requested. Some programs require you to participate in group discussions or complete written assignments. At the end, you will receive a certificate of completion only if you attended all required hours and met any other program requirements.

Costs and payment options

DUI class costs vary by state and provider, ranging from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars depending on the program length and type. Your court order or DMV notice may specify the maximum allowable cost in your state, or it may not mention cost at all.

When you contact a provider, ask for the total cost upfront and whether payment plans are available. Some programs offer sliding-scale fees based on income, though this is not universal. A few states cap the cost of approved programs, so ask whether your state has a fee limit.

Payment is typically due before or at the first class. Ask whether the provider accepts credit cards, checks, or cash, and whether they offer any discounts for early payment or upfront payment. If cost is a barrier, ask the provider or the court whether fee reductions or waivers are available in your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take a DUI class in a different state than where I was convicted?

Generally, no. The class must be approved by the state where you were convicted or where your license is suspended. Taking a class in another state will not satisfy the requirement. Contact your court or DMV to confirm whether they accept out-of-state programs in rare circumstances.

What happens if I miss a class or cannot finish by the important date?

Missing classes can result in failure to complete the requirement, which typically triggers license suspension or other court penalties. If you are struggling to attend, contact the provider and the court when ready to explain the situation. Some courts will extend important date for documented hardship; others will not. Do not wait until the important date passes.

Do I need a DUI class if I refused a breathalyzer test?

Yes, in most states. A refusal to take a breathalyzer or blood test often carries the same or harsher penalties as a DUI conviction, including a mandatory DUI class. Your court order or DMV notice will specify the requirement. Check your paperwork or contact the court to confirm.

Can I choose any approved program, or does the court assign one?

In most states, you choose from the list of approved providers. The court does not assign a specific program. However, some states have a limited number of approved providers, which may limit your options. Check your court order to see whether it specifies a particular program or gives you a choice.

Will my insurance company know I took a DUI class?

Your insurance company may learn about your DUI conviction through the DMV or court records, but they typically do not receive information about whether you completed a class. Completing the class may help you in court or with the DMV, but it does not automatically lower your insurance rates. Contact your insurance company to ask whether completing a DUI class qualifies you for any discounts.