The Montgomery County DUI Administration is responsible for several programs designed to help those arrested for and convicted of driving under the influence. These programs are focused more on educating drivers and getting them whatever treatment they might need than on punishing them for breaking the law.
If you are ordered to enter one or more of the DUI Administration’s programs, it is in your best interests to comply. Our Montgomery County DUI lawyer can tell you more about what to expect in each of these programs and what they mean for your case.
When Does the Montgomery County DUI Administration Come Into Your Case?
The DUI Administration deals with all kinds of DUI cases.
When the police arrest someone for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol or another drug, that person is brought before a judge in Montgomery County Magisterial District Court. The judge will decide if and when any given defendant must complete the programs operated by the DUI Administration. It is at this point that you will first come into contact with this agency.
What Programs Does the DUI Administration Operate?
According to their website, the Montgomery County DUI Administration oversees three interrelated programs for those facing DUI charges:
Court Reporting Network (CRN)
This program is generally the first step toward determining if you need substance abuse treatment. You will receive a letter in the mail ordering you to call the DUI Administration to set up a time to complete an evaluation. The evaluation should not take more than an hour.
Depending on the results of this screening, you may be referred for additional treatment, as discussed below.
Treatment Assessment Referrals
Sometimes, driving under the influence is the result of simple bad judgment. Other times, it indicates a deeper problem with alcohol or another addictive substance. After your arrest, you may be ordered to attend an assessment to determine if you require substance abuse treatment.
Anyone who is underage, has been arrested for DUI before, had an extremely high blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of arrest, refused to undergo BAC testing, or was caught using a controlled substance will be ordered to undergo an assessment.
If you are ordered to attend treatment, you must register with Rise Above, a local recovery program.
Alcohol Highway Safety School (AHSS)
AHSS is an instructional course that seeks to educate students about how drugs and alcohol affect their judgment while behind the wheel. It also reviews general information about safe driving.
This is a 12.5-hour class split up over several weeks. You may be able to choose from several scheduling options and to request a Spanish-language class if necessary. You must attend all classes in person.
Are DUI Administration Programs Free?
No. As of 2026, the CRN screening costs $100, while AHSS costs $250. Failure to show up or to reschedule your appointment well ahead of time will result in additional fees and could delay your completion of the program.
Are DUI Administration Programs Mandatory?
Yes. If the court orders you to appear for any or all of the above programs, you must attend or face additional penalties.
While having to attend classes or treatment may seem unfair, the Montgomery County DUI Administration exists to help DUI offenders by giving them access to resources and information they might not otherwise receive. As will be discussed below, completion of these programs can even help you get your life back faster after an arrest.
When Are You Required to Complete a DUI Administration Program?
In Pennsylvania, DUI penalties almost always include at least one of the programs run by the Montgomery County DUI Administration.
For example, if this is your first or second offense, you will be ordered to attend AHSS. Court-ordered treatment is always a possibility, regardless of what your BAC was or whether or not you have prior DUIs on your record.
These programs are also an essential part of the Accelerated Rehabilitation Disposition (ARD) program. ARD allows certain individuals to bypass a trial and instead complete alternative requirements, including DUI Administration programs. Successful completion of the ARD program could allow you to avoid a conviction, get your record expunged, and move on with your life sooner.
How to Comply With the DUI Administration’s Programs
Each program has different requirements. Generally, you will be expected to:
- Arrive at all court-ordered classes and appointments on time
- Pay for AHSS and CRN ahead of time
- Take all assessments and classes seriously
Your AHSS and CRN might take place at the DUI Administration’s Norristown or Willow Grove location. Make sure you know which office to appear at before you go.
If at any time you are not sure what is expected of you, you can reach out to the DUI Administration directly or ask your defense lawyer for advice. Do not skip appointments or allow points of confusion to go unresolved: this can only make your situation worse.
What Happens When You Finish the DUI Administration’s Programs?
The fact that you completed all necessary evaluations, treatments, and classes will be noted by the judge in your case. If you still have to complete other programs, such as community service, or criminal penalties, such as a prison sentence, you will be expected to do so.
If you do not have to complete any additional requirements, then you will be able to return to your regular life. The tools and resources you gain from the Montgomery County DUI Administration can help you avoid future DUIs.
Learn More About the DUI Administration and Your Options After a DUI Arrest
If you were arrested for DUI, call McKenzie Law Firm, P.C., today. By acting quickly, our legal team can ensure you understand your rights and what role the Montgomery County DUI Administration plays in your case. We can also work to enroll you in the ARD program as an alternative to steep fines or prison time.
