If you or someone you know has been charged with or involved in an alcohol-related incident (such as a DUI, OUI, open intoxicants, or underage possession), the court or licensing agency may require an alcohol assessment. For example, in Michigan the state states that persons charged with alcohol-related driving offenses “may be required to obtain an alcohol screening or substance abuse evaluation, or participate in awareness classes.”
An assessment typically involves a licensed or certified counselor evaluating your alcohol use, history, risk for dependency, mental health co-issues, and recommending appropriate next steps (which may include education, treatment, monitoring). For instance, a provider offers virtual evaluations for alcohol and drug use, noting they meet legal, court and probation requirements.
Licensed counselor matters — especially by state
Just because something is labelled “online assessment” doesn’t mean it will always satisfy court, probation, or state licensing requirements. Many states require the assessment to be administered by someone licensed or certified in that specific state (or by a provider approved by the state).
- In Arizona, the driver services site indicates that MVD-ordered screening “is a face-to-face interview conducted by a behavioral health professional or a behavioral health technician.”
- In Nebraska, the licensure page defines an “Alcohol & Drug Counselor” as one who provides assessments and other core functions under regulation, and spells out supervised work experience and specific hours required.
- In Washington, the licensing board for Substance Use Disorder Professionals lists detailed education, experience, and supervision requirements.
Key takeaway: Before you sign up for an online assessment, verify whether the assessor is licensed or approved in your state and that the assessment will meet the legal requirement you face (court, DMV, license reinstatement, etc.).
Online assessment options — possible, but check state acceptance
Yes — many providers now offer assessments via telehealth or virtual platforms. For example, one service in Georgia offers 100% online evaluation “from anywhere in the state.”
However — caveat: just because an assessment is offered online doesn’t guarantee it will be accepted by your state or court. Some states explicitly state that online or virtual classes or evaluations are not accepted. For example, Michigan says: “Note, most states, including Michigan, do not accept on-line courses.”
Therefore:
- Ask the provider if the online assessment is accepted by your court, DMV, or the agency you’re working with.
- Confirm the provider is licensed/approved in your jurisdiction.
- Ask for proof (certificate, report) stating the assessment meets the requirement.
- If you’re outside your home state or the provider is out of state, double-check that cross-state credentials are valid.
After the assessment — possible recommendation for a class
Often the assessment will result in one of several outcomes: (1) no further action beyond the assessment, (2) recommendation for an education or awareness class, (3) recommendation for more intensive treatment or monitoring. If the result is a class, you’ll want to make sure it meets your state’s or court’s requirement.
For example: If the assessment says you must complete a “DUI education class” or an “alcohol awareness course,” you should check whether the website of the class provider lists that it is accepted in your state. If you receive an assessment and are recommended to take a class, check the website “Online Alcohol Class” to see if they have classes to meet your requirement.
Practical Steps / Checklist
- Identify who ordered/required the assessment (court, DMV/licensing board, employer).
- Check your state’s rules for alcohol assessments (screening, evaluation) and whether online options are allowed.
Find a licensed/certified provider in your state (or otherwise approved) and ask:
- Are you licensed/approved in my state?
- Is your assessment accepted in my legal context (DUI, license reinstatement, employer)?
- Can you provide documentation/report that I can submit?
- If you complete the assessment, get the written report and keep it.
If it recommends a class:
- Verify that the class is approved/accepted for your requirement.
- Check the “Online Alcohol Class” website (or whichever provider) for state-specific listings or disclaimers.
- Register and complete the class, keep your certificate.
- Submit all required documentation to the ordering body by their deadline.
Why this matters for you (or your client)
For organizations like yours — working in behavioral health, addiction, substance-use assessment and counseling — ensuring that clients complete valid, state-accepted assessments and classes is crucial. Incorrect assessments or unaccepted online courses can lead to non-compliance, delayed license reinstatement, additional penalties, or extra costs. Helping clients navigate this landscape safeguards both compliance and good outcomes.
Final Thoughts
An online alcohol assessment can be a convenient option, but only if it’s done correctly — by a provider licensed/approved in your state, and in a way that meets the specific requirement you face (court, DMV, employer). After the assessment, follow through on any recommended class, making sure the class is approved in your jurisdiction. Taking these careful steps will help you meet the requirement and move forward with confidence.
