A DWI conviction in North Carolina can bring serious consequences—fines, license suspension, and even jail time. But what many people don’t realize is that completing a DWI education or treatment program can play a critical role in how your case and your record are handled.
These programs are more than just classes. They can help you regain your license, reduce penalties, and show the court you’re taking responsibility. Here’s what you need to know. Don’t make a DUI ruin your future; get the help you need and the legal assistance you deserve.
What Is a DWI Education Program?
North Carolina law requires anyone convicted of DWI to complete a substance abuse assessment by a licensed provider. Based on the results, you may be ordered to attend:
- Alcohol and Drug Education Traffic School (ADETS): A 16-hour program for first-time, low-risk offenders.
- Substance abuse treatment programs: Required if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was high, if you have prior offenses, or if your assessment shows a higher risk level.
Completion of the program is mandatory for license restoration under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-17.6.
How Completing a Program Helps Your Record
1. Restoring Your License
- You cannot have your driving privileges reinstated until you complete your assessment and recommended program.
- Without proof of completion, the DMV will keep your license suspended.
2. Reducing Penalties in Court
- Judges often view early enrollment in ADETS or treatment as a sign of responsibility.
- Completing the program before sentencing may help you receive reduced penalties or a lighter probation period.
3. Showing Rehabilitation
- While a DWI conviction itself cannot be expunged in North Carolina, completing education or treatment demonstrates compliance.
- This record of completion may help with employment, insurance, or professional licensing consequences.
4. Avoiding Repeat Offenses
- These programs focus on preventing future impaired driving.
- Completing them can help you avoid a second DWI, which carries much harsher penalties under North Carolina’s repeat DWI laws.
What to Expect in ADETS
The ADETS program covers:
- Education about alcohol and drug use
- Understanding how impairment affects driving
- Legal consequences of DWI in North Carolina
- Strategies to avoid future impaired driving
It usually takes 16 hours, spread over several days, and costs around $160 plus fees set by the state.
Common Questions
Is a DWI education program optional?
- No. It is mandatory for restoring your license after a DWI conviction.
Can I start the program before my case is over?
- Yes, and doing so may help your defense by showing good faith.
Does the program remove the conviction from my record?
- No. North Carolina law does not allow DWI convictions to be expunged, but completion helps with sentencing and license restoration.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
While completing a DWI program is required, how and when you enroll can make a big difference in your case. A criminal defense attorney can:
- Guide you through the assessment process
- Help you show the court you’re addressing the issue early
- Advocate for reduced penalties based on your compliance
- Protect your record and driving privileges wherever possible
Key Takeaways
- DWI education programs (ADETS) and treatment are mandatory for restoring your license in North Carolina.
- Completing them can reduce penalties, demonstrate responsibility, and help with long-term consequences.
- While they don’t erase a conviction, they play a major role in limiting the damage to your record.
- Starting early can strengthen your defense and speed up license restoration.
If you’ve been charged with DWI in North Carolina, don’t wait until sentencing to act. At Martine Law, our criminal defense attorneys help clients navigate both the legal system and required education programs so you can protect your future.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation.