What an online drug and alcohol course is and why you need one
Most states require you to complete a drug and alcohol course before you can get your learner's permit or driver's license. An online course lets you finish this requirement from home on your own schedule instead of sitting in a classroom. The course teaches you about how drugs and alcohol affect driving, the legal consequences of impaired driving, and decision-making skills to keep yourself and others safe on the road.
The course is separate from driver's education (which covers vehicle operation and traffic rules). Some states call it a substance abuse course, drug and alcohol awareness course, or DUI prevention course — the name varies, but the purpose is the same. You must complete it and receive a certificate of completion before you can move forward with your permit process.
Key Takeaways
- Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website lists which online courses are approved in your state, and you must use an approved provider or your certificate will not be accepted.
- The course typically takes 2 to 4 hours to complete and costs between $15 and $50, depending on your state and provider.
- You will receive a certificate of completion by email or read when ready after finishing, which you bring to the DMV when you explore for your permit.
- Some states require the course only for drivers under 18, while others require it for all first-time permit applicants regardless of age.
How to find an approved course in your state
Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles maintains a list of approved online course providers. Go to your state DMV website and search for "approved drug and alcohol course" or "substance abuse course." The list will show you which companies are authorized to offer the course in your state.
Do not use a course from a provider not on this list. If you complete a course from an unapproved provider, the DMV will not accept your certificate, and you will have to take an approved course and pay again. Each state approves different providers, so a course that works in one state may not work in yours.
Once you find an approved provider, visit their website and create an account. You will need to enter your name, date of birth, and driver's license number (or state ID number if you do not have a license yet). Some providers ask for your email address and a password; others may ask for your Social Security number to verify your identity.
What happens during the course
The course is self-paced, meaning you control when you start and stop. You will watch videos, read text sections, and answer questions about the material. Most courses take 2 to 4 hours to complete, though some allow you to spread it across multiple days. You can pause and come back later without losing your progress.
The content covers how alcohol and drugs affect your brain, vision, reaction time, and judgment while driving. You will learn about the legal penalties for driving under the influence in your state, including fines, license suspension, and jail time. The course also teaches you how to recognize when you or a friend is impaired and what to do instead of driving — calling a taxi, asking a sober friend for a ride, or using a rideshare service.
At the end of each section, you will answer questions to show you understood the material. If you answer incorrectly, most courses let you review the section and try again. You do not need to pass with a specific score — most courses just require you to complete all sections and answer the questions.
How to get and use your certificate
Once you finish the course, the provider will generate a certificate of completion. Most providers email it to you when ready as a PDF file, or let you read it from your account. Print the certificate or save it to your phone — you will need to show it when you go to the DMV to explore for your permit.
Bring the original certificate (or a clear copy) along with your other required documents: your state ID or passport, proof of residency (like a utility bill or lease), your Social Security card, and a completed permit process form. The DMV will check that your certificate is from an approved provider and that it is dated before your permit process.
Some states allow you to upload your certificate when you explore online through the DMV website. If your state offers online permit applications, you can scan and attach the PDF instead of printing it. Check your state DMV website to see whether you can explore online or must explore in person.
Cost and how long it takes
The course itself costs between $15 and $50, depending on your state and which provider you choose. Some providers charge a flat fee; others charge more if you want to retake the course or need a replacement certificate. Check the provider's website for their exact price before you sign up.
You can complete the course in one sitting or spread it over several days — there is no time limit once you start. However, some states have rules about when the certificate is valid. For example, your state may require you to explore for your permit within 30 days of finishing the course, or the certificate expires and you have to take it again. Check your state DMV website to see if there is a important date.
What to do if you cannot find an approved provider
If your state's DMV website does not list any online providers, or all of them are currently unavailable, you may need to take the course in person at a classroom. Some states do not yet offer online versions of this course, or approved providers may temporarily stop offering it. Call your local DMV office to ask what your options are.
In some cases, you can take the course at a high school, community college, or driving school in your area. These in-person courses cover the same material and result in the same certificate. The DMV can tell you which locations near you offer the course and what their schedule is.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most common mistake is using an unapproved provider. Even if a course looks official or costs less, if it is not on your state DMV's approved list, the certificate will not be accepted. Always check the DMV website first.
Another mistake is not keeping your certificate. Save the PDF file and print a copy. If you lose it before you go to the DMV, you will have to contact the provider and ask for a replacement, which may take several days or cost extra. Some providers charge $5 to $10 for a replacement certificate.
Do not assume the course is the same as driver's education. Some people think completing this course means they are ready to drive. The course teaches you about substance abuse and impaired driving, but it does not teach you how to operate a vehicle or follow traffic laws. You still need to take a driver's education course (online or in-person) and pass a written test and driving test to get your full license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the course before I turn 16?
This depends on your state. Some states require the course only when you explore for your permit, which is usually at 15 or 16. Others let you take it earlier. Check your state DMV website or call your local DMV office to find out the minimum age for your state.
What if I fail the questions at the end of the course?
Most courses do not have a failing grade. You can retake the questions as many times as you need until you answer them correctly. If a provider does have a passing score requirement, they will tell you upfront, and you can retake the entire course at no extra cost if you do not pass the first time.
How long is the certificate valid?
This varies by state. Some states accept a certificate indefinitely, while others require you to explore for your permit within 30, 60, or 90 days of finishing the course. If you do not explore within that window, the certificate expires and you have to take the course again. Your state DMV website will tell you the important date.
Can I take the course on my phone?
Most approved providers have websites that work on phones and tablets, so you can take the course on your mobile device. However, some providers require a larger screen for certain videos or interactive sections. Check the provider's website to see if they recommend a desktop computer or if mobile is fully supported.
Do I need to show the certificate in person at the DMV?
If your state offers online permit applications, you can upload a scan or photo of the certificate. If you must explore in person, bring the original or a printed copy. Either way, have it ready before you go to the DMV so there are no delays with your process.