During field sobriety tests in the United States, law enforcement officers evaluate physical coordination, balance, attention, and responsiveness as part of a DUI or impairment investigation. The tests are usually conducted during roadside stops after signs of possible impairment are observed.
Field sobriety tests are observational and are interpreted by the officer at the scene.
What happens
After a traffic stop:
- An officer may ask questions about alcohol or substance use
- The driver may be asked to exit the vehicle
- Standardized field sobriety tests may be requested
Common tests may include:
- Walking in a straight line
- Standing on one leg
- Following an object with the eyes
During the process:
- The officer observes balance, coordination, speech, and responsiveness
- Instructions are given and performance is evaluated at the scene
The interaction may be recorded through body cameras or dash cameras depending on the agency.
What determines the outcome
The outcome depends on:
- Officer observations during the stop
- Performance during the tests
- Additional indicators of impairment
- State DUI enforcement procedures
Field sobriety tests are typically one factor among several considered during the investigation.
What it may lead to
Common outcome:
- Continued roadside investigation
Possible escalation:
- Breath, blood, or chemical testing requests
- Arrest for suspected impaired driving
Worst realistic outcome:
- DUI-related criminal charges
- License suspension proceedings
- Additional evidence used in court or administrative review
The officer’s interpretation may influence later enforcement and court decisions.
Common escalation triggers
- Odor of alcohol or visible impairment
- Difficulty following instructions
- Unsafe driving behavior before the stop
- Inconsistent statements during questioning
What this depends on
Outcomes may vary based on:
- State DUI laws and procedures
- Officer training and assessment
- Environmental conditions during testing
- Whether additional evidence is available
Field sobriety testing standards and admissibility rules can differ between jurisdictions.
Who controls the process
Field sobriety testing is conducted by state or local law enforcement agencies.
Further legal or administrative actions are handled through courts and state motor vehicle systems.
Last reviewed: May 2026
This page describes typical operational outcomes. Individual cases vary.