What is a Risk Reduction Program?
A DUI Risk Reduction Program is made up of two parts. The first is the assessment component and must be completed first. It is comprised of taking a 130 question comprehensive screening to evaluate the individual's alcohol and drug use, the extent of the usage, and its impact on the individual's driving. It takes about half an hour to complete.
NOTE: This is not the same as the clinical evaluation (or Drug and Alcohol Evaluation) that may be required in addition to a Risk Reduction Program. A clinical evaluation is where you will speak with a counselor and they will determine if you need substance abuse treatment. The counselor will write a report for your attorney or probation officer.
The second component in a Risk Reduction Program is the classroom component. It is a 20-hour program and is conducted in a group environment. It can be completed in less than a week, depending on the program. It's purpose is to provide therapeutic education and peer group counseling about alcohol/drug use and their affect on driving.
Check before enrollment...
- the course schedule to avoid any potential scheduling conflicts to make sure you can be at every class and on time
- make sure the school is on the list of approved schools in-state and out-of-state
Is the program regulated?
The program is regulated by the state. The state has made certain rules you must abide by to complete the program. Three of those rules are: cannot be late for a class (you will not be let in late), do not leave any of the sessions early, and do not miss any of the sessions. Failure to abide by these rules could result in having to retake the entire program and pay for the entire program again.
How much does it cost?
The first component, the assessment, costs $100. The second component, the 20-hour classroom sessions, cost $235. There is a textbook and materials fee of $20. So, the total cost of the Risk Reduction Program is $355.
What happens after I'm done with the program?
After successful completion of both components of the program, you will be given a Certificate of Completion. This certificate is issued by the State of Georgia. You will need this certificate to give to DDS to get your license reinstated.
The certificate must include:
- your name and date of birth;
- the name, address, and phone number of the school;
- the number of course hours completed;
- the signature of the program official;
- the type of program; and
- completion date.
If you loose your certificate, you can get a replacement certificated from the school where you completed the program. They may charge you a fee of up to $20. If the school has closed, you can contact DDS to obtain a replacement certificate.
Why do I need to take this program?
AFTER CONVICTION: if you are convicted of DUI, underage DUI (under 21), possession of illegal drugs, underage possession of alcohol, or BUI (Boating Under the Influence), you will be required to attend a DUI school. This is not the same as a Drug and Alcohol Evaluation or clinical evaluation; Risk Reduction is required in addition to the evaluation.
REINSTATEMENT: You may want to take this course so you can get your license re-instated after a suspension due to refusing the state administered test or testing over the legal limit on the state administered test.
Can I take the course anywhere or does it have to be a one particular location?
The court, judge, nor prosecutor will require attendance at a specific DUI school, but the provider of the course be approved by the Department of Driver Services (DDS).
A list of approved DUI schools can be found on the DDS website: in-state and out-of-state. At this time, there are no online Risk Reduction Programs and a certificate from online classes will not be accepted by the court nor by DDS.
I live out of state. Do I need to take the course in Georgia?
If you live outside Georgia, you can take a class out of state. It must be a least 20 hours long and must be approved in the state in which it is located. DDS has a list of out-of-state schools that are approved.
What if I haven't been convicted of DUI, just charged. Should I take a Risk Reduction Program?
If you intend on pleading guilty to the DUI charge, Bray Law would recommend you take the course as it is mandatory and required in all Georgia DUI cases.
Even if you do not plead to the DUI charge, taking a Risk Reduction Course does help in negotiating your charge down to a reckless driving or something less. It shows you are taking the initiative to seek help and treatment, gives you more flexibility as to scheduling and driving to the class, and it shows the prosecutor and judge you are taking the matter seriously. At Bray Law, we can discuss the option of preemptively taking a Risk Reduction Course with you in your particular case. Contact us today for a Free Consultation.