08/07/2026
When a driver is pulled over on suspicion of drunk or impaired driving, the officer will observe their behavior, ask questions, and administer Standardized Field Sobriety Tests to determine whether there is enough evidence to make an arrest. From there, the suspect is taken to the station for chemical testing, which can include a breath, blood, or urine test. In cases where drug impairment is suspected, a specially trained Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) may be called in to perform a detailed evaluation. Once the investigation is complete, the suspect is booked into the county jail, fingerprinted, and typically brought before a court within 24 hours of being detained.
Learn what happens during a DUI stop—from the investigation and arrest to chemical testing, drug evaluations, and booking.