Ohio OVI Remedial Driving Course Requirements

Ohio Revised Code (ORC) Section 4511.19 establishes a bifurcated sentencing framework for Operating a Vehicle Impaired (OVI) offenses, allowing a judge to suspend a minimum jail term—typically three days (72 hours)—for a first conviction in favor of a 72-hour residential educational intervention.

OVI Education Program Requirements in Ohio

Ohio's approach to OVI offenses involves a tiered system directly linked to the severity of the offense and prior convictions. The primary educational mandate is the Driver Intervention Program (DIP), which is distinct from other courses like "Traffic School" or "Defensive Driving" that serve different purposes, such as point reduction.

When is DUI School Required?

The need for OVI education programs in Ohio varies based on the offense level:

• First Offense (Low Level): For a first OVI offense with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) between .08% and .169%, the court may suspend the mandatory three-day jail sentence if the offender completes a certified 72-hour Driver Intervention Program.
• First Offense (High Level): If the BAC is .17% or higher, the court may suspend three of the six required jail days if the offender completes the 72-hour DIP. The offender will usually have to serve the remaining three days in jail or a combination of DIP and house arrest, depending on the court's practices.
• Second and Subsequent Offenses: The 72-hour DIP is generally not an option for repeat offenders to substitute for mandatory jail time. However, these offenders are usually required to undergo a comprehensive alcohol and drug assessment and complete any recommended treatment.

State-Approved Programs: The Driver Intervention Program (DIP)

The DIP is certified and regulated by the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS), not the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). To operate, a DIP must be certified by the director of OhioMHAS for three years. It must also adhere to strict curriculum standards, including small group discussions, traffic safety education, and addiction screening.

Note that online formats for the 72-hour DIP are strictly prohibited. Enrollment in a non-compliant online course can lead to probation violations and reinstatement of jail time.

The DIP curriculum, as standardized by OhioMHAS rules (OAC 5122-29-12), has specific requirements:

• Screening: One-on-one screening with a licensed counselor to identify potential substance use disorders.
• Small Group Discussion: At least five hours of small group interaction.
• Education: Over 15 hours of instruction covering the physiology of addiction, legal consequences, and traffic safety.
• Confinement: Participants cannot leave the premises, consume alcohol, or possess unapproved electronics.

While the state mandates the DIP, its execution is handled by a network of private companies, non-profit organizations, and counseling agencies, primarily operating out of hotels. OhioMHAS maintains a directory of certified providers.

Program Duration: Hours Required

• 72-Hour DIP: This is the standard duration for first-time offenders eligible for jail substitution. Participants usually check in on Thursday evening and depart Sunday evening.

Costs: Typical Program Fees

The cost of the DIP is primarily borne by the offender, with the average cost ranging from $300 to $600.

• Shared Room (Double/Triple Occupancy): $275 - $400
• Private Room: $500 - $650

These costs typically include lodging and meals. Some providers may charge additional fees for intake, assessment, or rescheduling.

Completion Deadlines

Specific deadlines for completing the DIP are determined by the court as part of the sentencing and probation conditions. These deadlines will be outlined in the court order. Missing these deadlines can result in consequences.

Consequences of Non-Completion

If an offender tests positive for alcohol at check-in, they will be denied entry. The provider will then notify the court, usually resulting in a probation violation hearing where the judge may order the offender to serve the original jail sentence. Similarly, failure to complete the program by the court-ordered deadline will likely lead to a probation violation and potential jail time.

To find a certified Driver Intervention Program provider, refer to the directory published by the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) at dbh.ohio.gov.