DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (SFST)

This comprehensive 24-hour training program equips law enforcement professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, evaluate, and properly process drivers suspected of operating vehicles while impaired. Participants will develop proficiency in recognizing indicators of impaired driving from the initial vehicle observation through arrest and suspect processing procedures.

The curriculum integrates detection methodologies with the standardized sobriety assessment protocols established by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Course material also addresses the legal framework governing DUI enforcement, including Miranda rights and implied consent statutes. Officers will gain practical experience in documenting observations effectively for courtroom testimony and will engage with two NHTSA-recommended practical drinking exercises to enhance their understanding of impairment indicators.

Course Topics

• DUI visual detection techniques
• Legal aspects of DUI enforcement
• Standardized field sobriety testing procedures, including horizontal gaze nystagmus assessment
• Proper documentation and evidence preservation methods
• Sobriety checkpoints and roadblock procedures
• Video recording and evidentiary considerations
• Practical demonstrations with NHTSA-recommended drinking exercises

Intended Audience

This course is designed for patrol officers, DUI investigators, supervisors, and prosecuting attorneys. Participation is restricted to active, sworn law enforcement personnel and prosecuting attorneys employed by governmental agencies. Florida officers should note that grant-funded seats are available to Florida sworn law enforcement personnel through the Florida Department of Transportation; however, federal and military law enforcement personnel in Florida do not qualify for grant-funded enrollment.

Course Duration and Schedule

The program runs for 24 hours, with class sessions held from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily. Multiple sessions are scheduled at various Florida locations throughout 2026 and 2027, including Port Richey, South Miami, Orlando, Fernandina Beach, Cocoa, Ocala, Sarasota, Stuart, and Marathon.

Cost Information

Tuition is $695.00 per participant. However, eligible Florida law enforcement officers may qualify for tuition-free attendance through available Florida Department of Transportation subgrant funding. Interested Florida officers should register through the Florida Grant Funded Training Catalog for information on grant-funded seat availability.