If convicted of a DUI, you are required to participate in the New Jersey Intoxicated Driver Program (IDP). This program was formed through a partnership between the Department of Human Services (DHS), the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) and the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) in an effort to prevent repeat DUI offenses.

The IDP coordinates all mandatory services for recovery and treatment after a DUI conviction. If you are found guilty of driving under the influence, you must attend a local group at your county’s Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC). Depending on your circumstances, your sentence may involve the following:

• If this is your first DUI conviction, you must attend an IDP for 12 hours, split up between two days.
• For your second offense – if you have not been sentenced to incarceration or inpatient treatment – you must spend 48 hours straight at an IDP.
• For a third offense, you will likely receive a jail or inpatient treatment sentence and be required to undergo a 12-hour follow-up treatment and evaluation session at an IDRC.

If you are required to attend an IDP program, payment of all associated costs is also incumbent upon you. Your costs will likely include a $1,000 insurance surcharge in addition to any miscellaneous fees. If you received your DUI in a school zone, or if there was a minor in the car at the time of arrest, your fines may be even higher. If you do not attend your mandatory IDP, you’ll be unable to renew your driver’s license and you may be subject to additional fines and penalties.

The IDP applies only to those who have been convicted of drunk driving in New Jersey. If you are arrested on DUI charges, consult a criminal defense attorney for help minimizing your penalties or possibly avoiding a conviction altogether.