After a DUI arrest in Illinois, you'll complete a DUI evaluation. That evaluation puts you in a risk classification, and your risk level determines what classes or treatment you need. Here's what each level means so you know what you're looking at.
Your risk level isn't pulled out of thin air. During your DUI evaluation, a licensed evaluator uses the ASAM Criteria, 4th Edition to look at the full picture:
The evaluator considers all of this information together — no single factor determines your classification on its own.
A Minimal Risk classification means the evaluation found no significant indicators of a substance use problem. This is the most common classification for first-time offenders with lower BAC levels and no history of substance use issues.
What's required: A 10-hour Driver's Risk Education (DRE) course. This is an educational program — not treatment. It covers topics like the effects of alcohol and drugs on driving, Illinois DUI laws, and decision-making strategies.
The DRE course is typically completed over several sessions. We offer this program at our Springfield office.
A Moderate Risk classification indicates some concerning patterns were identified during the evaluation. This might apply to someone with a higher BAC, some history of heavy drinking, or other risk factors that suggest education alone isn't sufficient.
What's required: A minimum of 12 hours of early intervention treatment. This goes beyond education and includes counseling components designed to help you examine your relationship with alcohol or drugs and develop healthier patterns.
We offer the 12-hour Moderate Risk treatment program at our office, making it convenient to complete your evaluation and treatment in one place.
A Significant Risk classification indicates more serious concerns about substance use patterns. This might apply to repeat offenders, individuals with very high BAC levels, or those with a more extensive history of substance use.
What's required: A minimum of 20 hours of outpatient treatment. This is a more intensive program that typically includes individual and group counseling sessions over a longer period.
A High Risk classification is the most serious level and indicates a significant substance use disorder. This classification typically applies to individuals with multiple DUI offenses, very high BAC levels, a long history of problematic substance use, or other serious clinical indicators.
What's required: The most intensive level of treatment, which may include 75 or more hours of treatment. In some cases, inpatient or residential treatment may be recommended.
People often worry about being placed at a higher risk level than they think is appropriate. Here are some factors that commonly influence classification:
If you disagree with your classification, you have the right to request a re-evaluation from a different licensed provider. However, keep in mind that evaluators use standardized criteria, so a second evaluation is likely to reach a similar conclusion if the same information is presented.
The most important thing you can do is be completely honest during your evaluation. Trying to minimize or hide information can actually backfire — if inconsistencies are detected, it may raise additional concerns.
Whatever your risk level, the key is to get started and follow through. Completing your required education or treatment is essential for:
At DUI Evaluation & Treatment Services, we offer both the 10-hour Driver's Risk Education course and the 12-hour Moderate Risk treatment program. Many of our clients complete their evaluation and treatment all under one roof, which saves time and simplifies the process.
The first step is always the evaluation. Once you know your risk level, you'll know exactly what's ahead of you — and we can help you build a plan to complete everything as efficiently as possible.
Call us at (217) 891-6063 to schedule your DUI evaluation, or contact us online.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Risk classification criteria and treatment requirements may vary. For advice about your specific situation, consult with a qualified attorney or call our office.