Tennessee DUI School Requirements
After a DUI in Tennessee, 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.
What Is DUI School?
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.
What You'll Learn
- • Effects of alcohol/drugs on driving ability
- • Blood alcohol content and impairment levels
- • Legal consequences of DUI
- • Impact on victims and families
- • Prevention strategies
Why It's Required
- • Court-ordered as part of sentencing
- • Required for license reinstatement
- • Condition of probation
- • Part of plea agreement
- • Reduces recidivism rates
When Is DUI School Required in Tennessee?
Education requirements vary by offense level and circumstances
First DUI Offense
MandatoryMost Tennessee courts require completion of an alcohol education program as a condition of probation or license reinstatement.
High BAC (0.2+)
MandatoryHigher BAC levels typically require extended education programs with more intensive curriculum.
Repeat DUI Offense
MandatorySecond and subsequent offenses require longer, more intensive programs often with treatment components.
License Reinstatement
MandatoryMany Tennessee license reinstatements require proof of DUI school completion before restoration.
Plea Agreement
DUI school may be part of a plea bargain, potentially in exchange for reduced charges or sentencing.
Types of DUI School Programs
Choose the format that works best for your schedule and court requirements
Online Courses
Complete your DUI education from home at your own pace. Most courts accept state-approved online programs.
Advantages
- Flexible scheduling
- Work at your own pace
- No travel required
- Often less expensive
Considerations
- •Requires computer/internet
- •Less personal interaction
- •Some courts may not accept
In-Person Classes
Traditional classroom setting with an instructor. Often held evenings or weekends at treatment centers or community facilities.
Advantages
- Direct interaction with instructor
- Group discussion and support
- Always court-accepted
Considerations
- •Fixed schedule
- •Travel required
- •May have waitlists
Weekend Intensive
Complete your entire program in one weekend. Popular for out-of-state offenders or those with tight deadlines.
Advantages
- Complete quickly
- Minimal time off work
- Good for deadlines
Considerations
- •Intense schedule
- •Limited availability
- •Higher cost
How to Complete DUI School in Tennessee
Follow these steps to fulfill your education requirement.
Check Your Court Order Requirements
Your DUI sentence or plea agreement specifies the type and duration of education required. Some courts require specific programs or in-person attendance.
- •Note the exact hours required
- •Check if online programs are accepted
- •Verify any specific provider requirements
- •Note your completion deadline
Find a State-Approved Provider
Tennessee maintains a list of approved DUI education providers. Using an unapproved program means you'll have to redo the course.
- •Contact Tennessee DMV or court for approved list
- •Verify the provider is still active and approved
- •Read reviews from other participants
- •Compare pricing between providers
Enroll and Pay
Register for your program and pay the course fee. Many providers offer payment plans if cost is a barrier.
- •Ask about payment plans if needed
- •Get a receipt for your records
- •Confirm the start date and schedule
- •Ask about makeup policies if you miss a session
Complete All Course Hours
Attend all sessions and complete any required homework or assessments. Most programs include video presentations, group discussions, and written exercises.
- •Arrive on time—lateness may not count
- •Participate actively in discussions
- •Complete all required assessments
- •Ask questions if you don't understand
Pass Any Final Assessment
Many programs have a final test or assessment. You typically need 70-80% to pass. If you fail, you can usually retake it.
- •Take notes during the course
- •Review materials before the test
- •Ask about retake policies
- •Most assessments are not difficult
Obtain Your Completion Certificate
Get your official certificate of completion. This document is required for court and DMV. Keep copies for your records.
- •Get multiple certified copies
- •Verify all information is correct
- •Submit to court before your deadline
- •Keep a copy for license reinstatement
Tennessee DUI School Costs
Typical costs by program type
Typical Costs
First offense, standard BAC
High BAC or court-ordered
Repeat offenders
When court-approved
First offense, basic program
Ways to Reduce Costs
- Compare prices between approved providers
- Ask about payment plans or sliding scale fees
- Consider online programs if court-approved (often cheaper)
- Check for community-based programs with lower fees
- Ask about indigency waivers if you qualify
Avoid Unapproved Programs
Only use Tennessee-approved programs. Completing an unapproved course means you'll have to pay again to redo it with an approved provider.
Online DUI School Options
Many Tennessee courts accept online programs—verify with your court before enrolling
DUI Class Online
State-certified online courses available 24/7. Self-paced with customer support.
Alcohol Drug Class
Interactive online education programs for all offense levels.
First Offense DUI
Specialized in first-time offender education programs.
Verify Acceptance First
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.
What to Expect in DUI School
Understanding the curriculum helps you get the most from the program
Session Format
Classes typically run 2-4 hours per session, with multiple sessions over several days or weeks depending on program length.
Curriculum
Video presentations, group discussions, written exercises, and assessments covering alcohol effects, legal consequences, and prevention.
Participation
You may be asked to share experiences and participate in discussions. This is designed to reinforce learning, not to judge.
Assessment
Most programs have a final quiz or test. Passing score is typically 70-80%. You can usually retake if needed.
Consequences of Not Completing DUI School
Failure to complete court-ordered DUI school can have serious consequences:
- •Probation violation charges
- •Warrant for your arrest
- •Additional fines and penalties
- •Extended probation period
- •Inability to reinstate your license
- •Possible jail time for violations
Always complete your program before the court deadline. If you're having trouble meeting the deadline, contact your attorney or probation officer immediately.
Tennessee DUI School FAQ
Sources & Official Resources
Information sourced from Tennessee DMV, court resources, and state-approved education providers. Always verify current requirements with official sources.
Last updated: January 2026
Need Help With Your Tennessee DUI Case?
An experienced DUI attorney can help you understand your education requirements, find approved providers, and ensure you meet all court deadlines.