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After a DUI in Georgia, you'll likely need to complete an alcohol education program. Here's what you need to know about course options, costs, duration, and how to find a state-approved provider.
8-16 hrs
1st Offense
Typical duration
24-48 hrs
2nd+ Offense
Extended program
$150-500
Cost Range
Varies by program
Requirements vary by county and offense. Always verify your specific requirements with your court order or probation officer.
In Georgia, accountability courts in counties like Cherokee, Gwinnett, and Cobb operate on a "Phase" system. If you've been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Georgia, you may be required to complete a DUI/DWI education program. These programs are designed to educate offenders about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse, as well as the consequences of impaired driving. The specific requirements and types of programs available depend on various factors, including the number of prior offenses and the court's discretion.
Whether or not you will be required to attend DUI school in Georgia depends on the circumstances of your case. Here’s a general overview:
First Offense: Even for a first DUI offense, the court can order DUI school.
Repeat Offenses: For second and subsequent DUI offenses, participation in a DUI Risk Reduction Program is almost always mandated. Prosecutors will often refuse to reduce charges unless the defendant agrees to a period of SCRAM monitoring and/or DUI education.
Aggravating Circumstances: DUI cases involving high BAC levels (typically 0.15 or higher), child endangerment (children in the car), or accidents with serious injuries will almost invariably result in a requirement to complete a DUI education program as part of the sentencing or probation conditions.
Georgia refers to DUI education programs as DUI Risk Reduction Programs. Some commonly available programs include:
DUI Risk Reduction Course: This is a standard 20-hour course covering alcohol and drug awareness, Georgia's DUI laws, and the impact of impaired driving.
Accountability Courts (DUI Courts): DUI Courts in counties like Cherokee, Gwinnett, and Cobb operate on a "Phase" system. Phase 1 (Assessment & Stabilization) lasting at least 90 days, focuses on breaking the cycle of addiction. SCRAM is frequently mandatory during this phase to ensure the participant is sober enough to engage in treatment. Sanctions might also include community service or "flash incarceration" (24-48 hours in jail) or restarting the current program phase.
MADD Victim Impact Panel (VIP): Often assigned as a supplement to the standard DUI Risk Reduction Course, this panel provides participants with firsthand accounts from victims of drunk driving accidents.
The duration of the required DUI education program depends on the specific program and the court's order. A typical probation condition requires 60 to 120 days of monitoring.
DUI Risk Reduction Course: The standard DUI Risk Reduction Course typically involves a minimum of 20 hours of instruction.
Accountability Courts: These specialized court tracks can require participation in a phased program that lasts much longer, sometimes up to a year or more, with regular treatment sessions, check-ins, and monitoring. Phase 1 in DUI Court can last at least 90 days.
The cost of DUI/DWI education programs in Georgia varies depending on the provider and the type of program.
DUI Risk Reduction Course: The fees for the 20-hour DUI Risk Reduction Course typically range from $360.
Accountability Courts: DUI Courts explicitly mandate SCRAM or electronic monitoring at the onset of the program at the participant's expense. Financial hardship is a common argument for early removal from SCRAM.
The deadline for completing the DUI education program is usually set by the court as part of the sentencing or probation conditions.
Pre-Trial: If the DUI education program is a condition of pre-trial release (bond), the court may require completion before the case goes to trial.
Probation: If the DUI education program is a condition of probation, the offender must complete the program within the specified timeframe, usually within the first year of probation.
Failing to complete the DUI/DWI education program within the specified timeframe can result in serious consequences.
Probation Revocation: The judge can revoke the balance of the probation. For a "special condition" violation like drinking, the judge can revoke the entire remaining sentence to jail, whereas technical violations are capped at 2 years. A probation officer may petition the court to modify the terms of probation to add SCRAM if a probationer fails a random urine screen or admits to struggling with sobriety.
Jail Time: The court may impose additional jail time or extend the period of probation.
License Suspension: Failing to complete the DUI education program can result in an extension of the driver's license suspension period.
If you are facing a DUI charge, consult with an attorney immediately.
For example, you might contact A 2nd Chance Monitoring for SCRAM installation services.
DUI School is an educational program designed to help people understand the dangers of impaired driving. These court-mandated or DMV-required classes cover alcohol's effects on driving, legal consequences, and strategies to avoid future offenses.
Education requirements vary by offense level and circumstances
Most Georgia courts require completion of an alcohol education program as a condition of probation or license reinstatement.
Higher BAC levels typically require extended education programs with more intensive curriculum.
Second and subsequent offenses require longer, more intensive programs often with treatment components.
Many Georgia license reinstatements require proof of DUI school completion before restoration.
DUI school may be part of a plea bargain, potentially in exchange for reduced charges or sentencing.
Choose the format that works best for your schedule and court requirements
Complete your DUI education from home at your own pace. Most courts accept state-approved online programs.
Traditional classroom setting with an instructor. Often held evenings or weekends at treatment centers or community facilities.
Complete your entire program in one weekend. Popular for out-of-state offenders or those with tight deadlines.
Follow these steps to fulfill your education requirement.
Your DUI sentence or plea agreement specifies the type and duration of education required. Some courts require specific programs or in-person attendance.
Georgia maintains a list of approved DUI education providers. Using an unapproved program means you'll have to redo the course.
Register for your program and pay the course fee. Many providers offer payment plans if cost is a barrier.
Attend all sessions and complete any required homework or assessments. Most programs include video presentations, group discussions, and written exercises.
Many programs have a final test or assessment. You typically need 70-80% to pass. If you fail, you can usually retake it.
Get your official certificate of completion. This document is required for court and DMV. Keep copies for your records.
Typical costs by program type
First offense, standard BAC
High BAC or court-ordered
Repeat offenders
When court-approved
First offense, basic program
Only use Georgia-approved programs. Completing an unapproved course means you'll have to pay again to redo it with an approved provider.
Many Georgia courts accept online programs—verify with your court before enrolling
State-certified online courses available 24/7. Self-paced with customer support.
Interactive online education programs for all offense levels.
Specialized in first-time offender education programs.
Before paying for any online DUI school, confirm with your court or probation officer that online courses are accepted in your case. Some courts require in-person attendance.
Understanding the curriculum helps you get the most from the program
Classes typically run 2-4 hours per session, with multiple sessions over several days or weeks depending on program length.
Video presentations, group discussions, written exercises, and assessments covering alcohol effects, legal consequences, and prevention.
You may be asked to share experiences and participate in discussions. This is designed to reinforce learning, not to judge.
Most programs have a final quiz or test. Passing score is typically 70-80%. You can usually retake if needed.
Failure to complete court-ordered DUI school can have serious consequences:
Always complete your program before the court deadline. If you're having trouble meeting the deadline, contact your attorney or probation officer immediately.
Information sourced from Georgia DMV, court resources, and state-approved education providers. Always verify current requirements with official sources.
Last updated: January 2026
An experienced DUI attorney can help you understand your education requirements, find approved providers, and ensure you meet all court deadlines.