ADSAC Costs Explained
If you've been charged with a DUI, DWI, APC, DUID, or another alcohol- or drug-related offense in Oklahoma, you're likely focused on meeting court requirements and getting your driver's license reinstated. However, one question many people ask before starting the process is:
"How much is ADSAC going to cost?"
The answer depends on your individual circumstances and the recommendations you receive after your ADSAC assessment. While there are state-mandated fees for the assessment itself, additional costs may apply depending on the level of education, counseling, or treatment required.
Understanding potential financial obligations in advance can help you plan accordingly and avoid unexpected expenses.
What Is ADSAC?
ADSAC stands for Alcohol and Drug Substance Abuse Course. Oklahoma requires many individuals with alcohol- or drug-related driving offenses to complete an ADSAC assessment and any recommended interventions before becoming eligible for driver's license reinstatement. Recommendations can range from a simple educational course to an intensive outpatient program.
The First Cost: ADSAC Assessment Fee
The first expense in the process is the ADSAC assessment.
Oklahoma law establishes a standardized assessment fee throughout the state. For offenses occurring on or after November 1, 2008, the assessment fee is generally $160. For offenses prior to that date, the fee is typically $175. This fee covers only the assessment and recommendation process. It does not include any classes or treatment services that may be required afterward.
The assessment usually takes about 90 minutes and is conducted by a state-certified ADSAC assessor, such as Chidi Hezkiah.
Understanding Additional ADSAC Costs
Many people mistakenly assume that the assessment fee covers the entire process. In reality, the assessment simply determines what interventions are required.
Depending on the results, you may be assigned one of several recommendation levels, each with different financial obligations.
Level 1: 10-Hour ADSAC Course
A Level 1 recommendation typically requires:
10-hour ADSAC course
Victim Impact Panel (VIP)
Many Oklahoma providers charge approximately $150 for the 10-hour ADSAC course, while the VIP may cost about $75.
Level 2: 24-Hour ADSAC Course
A Level 2 recommendation generally includes:
24-hour ADSAC course
Victim Impact Panel
The 24-hour course commonly costs around $360 through state-approved providers.
Level 3 and Higher Recommendations
For individuals who require additional intervention, costs can increase significantly.
Higher recommendation levels may require:
Six-week substance abuse groups
Twelve-week substance abuse groups
Intensive outpatient treatment
Aftercare services
Mutual support group participation (generally free).
These services involve additional fees that vary by provider and treatment requirements. Oklahoma's ADSAC system specifically notes that costs are associated with fulfilling all recommendations issued by the assessor.
Other Expenses You May Encounter
While ADSAC-related expenses are often the most immediate concern, they may represent only part of the overall financial impact of a DUI-related offense.
Additional expenses may include:
Court Costs and Fines
Depending on your case, courts may impose fines, fees, probation costs, and other penalties.
Attorney Fees
Many individuals hire legal representation, which can add significantly to overall costs depending on the complexity of the case.
License Reinstatement Fees
Service Oklahoma may require reinstatement fees before restoring driving privileges.
Increased Insurance Premiums
After a DUI-related offense, insurance premiums often increase substantially, sometimes for several years.
Ignition Interlock Devices
Certain drivers may be required to install and maintain an ignition interlock device, which involves installation, monitoring, and maintenance fees.
Can Insurance Cover Any ADSAC Costs?
Generally, the ADSAC assessment itself is an out-of-pocket expense and is not covered by health insurance. However, if your recommendations include outpatient counseling, intensive outpatient treatment, or other clinical services, some of these services may be eligible for insurance coverage, depending on your provider and policy.
It's always wise to verify coverage directly with your insurance company before beginning treatment services, if and when applicable.
Budgeting for the ADSAC Process
The total financial commitment varies significantly from person to person.
A participant receiving only a Level 1 recommendation may spend a few hundred dollars beyond the assessment fee. Someone requiring more intensive treatment services may incur considerably higher costs over several weeks.
To prepare financially:
Schedule your assessment promptly.
Ask providers about payment plans.
Keep copies of all receipts and documentation.
Confirm costs before enrolling in classes.
Verify whether insurance may help cover treatment-related services.
Planning ahead can reduce stress and help ensure you remain compliant with all state requirements.
In summary, the ADSAC process is designed to promote education, accountability, and safer decision-making following alcohol- or drug-related driving offenses. While there are financial costs involved, understanding those expenses in advance allows you to plan effectively and avoid surprises.
In most cases, the process begins with a state-mandated assessment fee of $160 to $175, followed by course, counseling, or treatment costs based on your recommendation level. The sooner you complete your assessment and begin fulfilling requirements, the sooner you can move toward license reinstatement and resolution of your legal obligations.
If you're preparing to start the ADSAC process, speaking with a certified Oklahoma ADSAC assessor can help you better understand both the requirements and the financial expectations specific to your situation.
Chidi Hezkiah
LPC, LADC, IAADC, ADSAC Assessor, SYMBIS Facilitator