Being charged with a DUI in Georgia triggers a series of legal and administrative requirements, and one of the first you will face is completing a DUI evaluation. This evaluation is not a punishment. It is a structured, confidential assessment conducted by a licensed professional to determine whether alcohol or drug use played a role in your charge and what level of intervention, if any, is appropriate for your situation.
Understanding what the evaluation involves and why it matters can help you approach the process with clarity rather than anxiety. AACS Atlanta has been providing state-approved DUI clinical evaluations in the Atlanta metro area since 1999, and this guide walks you through exactly what to expect.
What Is a DUI Clinical Evaluation in Georgia?
A DUI clinical evaluation, also called an alcohol and drug clinical evaluation, is a one-on-one assessment between you and a state-certified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) or licensed clinical evaluator. It is required under Georgia law for individuals charged with DUI, reckless driving involving substances, or related offenses.
The evaluation is administered by professionals certified through the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD). Only evaluations conducted by DBHDD-certified providers are accepted by Georgia courts and the Department of Driver Services (DDS). AACS Atlanta is a fully certified DBHDD provider.
Why Is a DUI Clinical Evaluation Required?
Georgia courts and the DDS require a clinical evaluation for a specific reason: to separate individuals who made a one-time error in judgment from those who may have an underlying substance use issue that needs to be addressed. The evaluation outcome directly influences what the court orders next, whether that is a brief education program, outpatient counseling, or more structured treatment.
It is strongly advisable to schedule your evaluation before your court date. Appearing in court with a completed evaluation on record signals responsibility and good faith to the judge, which can positively influence the outcome of your case. Courts frequently view proactive compliance more favorably during sentencing.
Who Conducts the DUI Clinical Evaluation?
The evaluation is conducted by a licensed clinical evaluator who is certified by the state of Georgia. At AACS Atlanta, our evaluators hold credentials that meet or exceed Georgia DBHDD requirements. They are trained in the use of standardized professional assessment instruments used to measure substance use history, patterns, and risk levels.
Every session is confidential. Information shared during your evaluation is protected under professional ethics standards and applicable privacy laws. The evaluator’s role is not to judge you it is to gather an accurate clinical picture so that the right level of support is recommended.
What Happens During the Evaluation Session?
The session typically lasts approximately one hour. During that time, the evaluator will:
- Review your personal and substance use history — including frequency, type of substances, and any prior treatment or legal history related to alcohol or drugs
- Administer standardized screening tools — clinically validated instruments used to assess the severity of any substance use patterns
- Conduct a structured clinical interview — a focused conversation to understand the context of your charge and your current circumstances
- Document relevant background information — including any prior DUI charges, probation conditions, or court orders
You do not need to bring an attorney or any third party. You will need to bring a valid photo ID and any court paperwork related to your charge.
What Are the Possible Outcomes?
Once the evaluation is complete, the clinician prepares a written recommendation based on their clinical findings. Possible recommendations fall into one of several categories under Georgia’s ASAM (American Society of Addiction Medicine) guidelines:
- No treatment indicated — the evaluator finds no clinical evidence of a substance use disorder; you may still be required to complete the Risk Reduction Program
- ASAM Level I (Outpatient) — a structured outpatient education or counseling program, typically one session per week
- ASAM Level II.1 or II.5 (Intensive Outpatient) — a more structured program for individuals with a higher level of need, involving multiple sessions per week
- Referral to additional treatment — in cases where a more significant substance use disorder is identified
The written report is provided to you directly. You are responsible for submitting it to the court or your attorney as required. If a treatment program is recommended, failing to comply with attendance or program requirements can result in additional legal consequences.
Is the DUI Evaluation Different from the Risk Reduction Program?
Yes — these are two separate requirements. The DUI clinical evaluation is the assessment that determines what you need. The Risk Reduction Program (RRP), also known as DUI school, is the educational program that most DUI offenders complete as part of their sentencing. In most cases, you will need to complete the evaluation before enrolling in the RRP.
Think of the evaluation as the diagnostic step and the RRP as the intervention that follows. Both are required for Georgia DDS license reinstatement in most DUI cases.
What If I Was Charged in Georgia But Live in Another State?
Out-of-state drivers charged with a DUI in Georgia are still subject to Georgia’s evaluation requirements. In many cases, your home state’s DMV will also require proof of compliance before restoring your driving privileges. AACS Atlanta offers a dedicated out-of-state DUI evaluation service designed specifically for this situation, with documentation formatted to satisfy both Georgia courts and out-of-state licensing agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I complete the DUI evaluation online?
AACS Atlanta offers telehealth evaluation options for qualifying individuals. Contact our office to confirm whether a virtual session meets the requirements for your specific court or county.
How soon will I receive my written evaluation report?
In most cases, your written evaluation report is provided at the conclusion of your session or within one business day. Same-day documentation is available for clients with urgent court deadlines.
Will my evaluation results affect my job?
Your evaluation is a confidential clinical record. It is not shared with employers. The report is provided to you, and you decide how and where to submit it. The evaluator does not report findings to third parties outside of legal and clinical requirements.
What if I disagree with the evaluation recommendation?
You have the right to discuss your results with the evaluator and ask questions about the clinical basis for the recommendation. If you have concerns, raise them directly during or immediately after the session. The evaluator’s findings are based on standardized clinical criteria, not personal judgment.
Schedule Your DUI Clinical Evaluation in Atlanta Today
AACS Atlanta provides same-day DUI clinical evaluations at our Atlanta, Decatur, and Marietta locations. Our evaluators are DBHDD-certified, our reports are accepted by Georgia courts, and our team is available Monday through Saturday to accommodate your schedule.
Do not wait until your court date to take action. Early completion of your DUI clinical evaluation puts you in the strongest possible position before the judge. Call us at 800-683-7745 or book your appointment online today.
