Ohio’s Driver Intervention Program (DIP) is an alternative to the mandatory three-day jail term that first-time offenders convicted of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or other drugs may attend at the court’s discretion (as prescribed by Sections 1547.99 and 4511.19 of the Ohio Revised Code). Each DIP includes traffic safety education on alcohol and other drug abuse and addiction, and small group discussions. DIPs are a two- or three-day process of education and screening, and may also include a referral for a complete alcohol and other drug assessment. All DIPs are certified by the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. They often operate at hotels. Locations, dates and hours of operation are available at most courthouses.

Indigent offenders (those who receive forms of public assistance, including, but not limited to, SSI, disability and Medicaid) may be eligible for assistance to help pay the fee for a DIP. To find out more, please contact a DIP provider.Ohio’s DIP curriculum includes the following information:

• Physical, psychological and social consequences of alcohol and other drug use
• Physiological and psychological effects of alcohol and other drugs on driving performance
• Blood alcohol content (BAC), drugs and the definition of legal impairment
• Symptoms of alcohol and other drug abuse
• The progressive nature of alcohol and other drug dependence  
• Levels of license suspension and revocation
• Fines and levels of incarceration
• Treatment and self-help resources for alcohol and other drug addiction