How Long Is DUI School?
Most first-time DUI programs are 12-20 hours. The exact length depends on your state, offense level, and BAC at arrest.
8-16 hrs
First Offense
24-36 hrs
Second Offense
36-72+ hrs
Multiple Offenses
Program Duration by Offense Level
First Offense (Low BAC)
Education only
8-16 hours
1-2 weeks online, 2-4 weekends in-person
First Offense (High BAC)
Education + assessment
16-24 hours
2-4 weeks online, 4-6 weekends in-person
Second Offense
Extended education
24-36 hours
3-6 weeks online, 6-8 weekends in-person
Third+ Offense
Treatment component
36-72+ hours
2-6 months, often in-person required
Duration by State (Examples)
| State | 1st Offense | 2nd Offense | 3rd+ Offense |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 12 hours | 24 hours | 32+ hours |
| Arizona | 16 hours | 36 hours | 36+ hours |
| Georgia | 20 hours | 36 hours | 120 hours |
| Colorado | 12 hours | 24 hours | 68+ hours |
| Ohio | 3 days | 10+ days | 30+ days |
Note: These are typical requirements. Your specific hours depend on your court order and assessment results.
What Affects Program Length?
BAC Level at Arrest
Higher BAC (especially 0.15%+) often means longer programs, as it suggests a higher risk level.
Prior Offenses
Second and third offenses require significantly longer programs, often with treatment components.
Assessment Results
Alcohol assessments can increase required hours if substance abuse indicators are identified.
State Requirements
Each state sets its own minimums. Some states have much longer requirements than others.
Realistic Completion Timeline
Online Programs
- 12-hour program: Can complete in 2-3 days if dedicated, typically 1-2 weeks
- 24-hour program: Typically 2-4 weeks
- Most programs have daily or weekly hour limits
In-Person Programs
- Typical format: 3-4 hour sessions, 1-2 times per week
- 12-hour program: 3-4 weeks
- Weekend intensive: Some offer 2-3 full weekends
Meeting Your Deadline
Know your deadline
Check your court order for the exact completion date. Courts take deadlines seriously.
Start early
Don't wait until the last minute. Enroll as soon as you know your requirements, giving yourself buffer time.
Account for program time
Remember: a 20-hour program doesn't mean 20 hours. Account for enrollment, scheduling, and certificate processing.
If you can't make it
Contact the court BEFORE your deadline to request an extension. Showing good faith effort matters.
Online DUI School
Complete faster from home
State Requirements
Find your specific requirements
Sources
Duration information based on state DUI education requirements as of January 8, 2026. Verify with your court order.