What is the Connecticut Impaired Driver Intervention Program?

 Posted on June 05, 2025 in Driving Under the Influence

Many states have diversion programs for those facing DUI or certain other charges, usually available only to first-time offenders. Most diversion programs allow the offender to complete a list of requirements while avoiding a conviction for DUI. A DUI conviction can have many detrimental effects on your life, including making it difficult to obtain employment.

If you are sentenced to jail time for your DUI, you would likely lose the job you have now, putting your financial stability in jeopardy. The court usually determines whether a defendant meets the criteria for a diversion program. If you are allowed in the program, you will waive your right to a speedy trial and agree that the statute of limitations will be tolled.

You must successfully complete all requirements under the Impaired Driver Intervention Program (IDIP). If you do not, you will be brought to trial on your original DUI charges. Once you complete the IDIP program, your DUI charges are dismissed, and all records related to those charges are erased. If you believe you might qualify for the IDIP program, discuss the issue with your Stamford, CT DUI attorney.  

What is the IDIP Program?

The IDIP Program was formerly known as the Alcohol Education Program and is a diversionary program that allows first-time DUI offenders to avoid a trial, the potential for a jail sentence, and a criminal record that follows the offender for life. If the program is successfully completed, there will be no further prosecution. The case will be dismissed, and there will be no negative mark on a person’s criminal record. The IDIP program is considered a privilege. It is extremely important that the initial application for IDIP be correct and complete, as there are no "do-overs" or appeals.  

What Are the Program Requirements for the IDIP?

Offenses covered under the IDIP program include DUI (alcohol or drugs), DUI by a person under the age of 21, DUI with a minor in the vehicle, DUI while driving a school bus, boating while intoxicated, and reckless boating while intoxicated. The DUI or BUI charges must be for a first-time DUI offense. A person is technically able to qualify for the IDIP program if ten years have passed since the first offense, but it is more difficult to obtain.

CDL holders are not allowed to use the IDIP program. If your DUI offense resulted in an accident that caused serious physical injury to another person, it will be much more difficult to be allowed in the IDIP program. While not impossible, it is extremely difficult for an out-of-state driver charged with a Connecticut DUI to be approved for the IDIP program.

What Is Involved in the IDIP Application?

The actual IDIP application (JD-CR-189) can be obtained through the court or online. The case will be called, and the individual will be sworn in while the judge asks questions regarding the IDIP application. The individual must consent to waive his or her right to a speedy trial and waive the statute of limitations.

A DUI attorney will present all the reasons the individual should be allowed into the IDIP program and may introduce the following documents:

• Reference letters
• State driving record
• An unofficial transcript of grades for college students
• Attendance records from AA
• A letter from the individual’s insurance company verifying insurance on the date of the DUI (if there was an accident)
• Full restitution to any victims of the DUI
• A letter from the individual’s therapist attesting that the client has undergone therapy

A second court date is typically set approximately six weeks after the initial court date. The application fee must be paid, and then the individual must visit the bail commissioner’s office to schedule an evaluation with a contractor from the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. The evaluator could recommend a 12-session alcohol intervention program or more intensive treatment, including an inpatient or outpatient treatment center.  

Contact a Fairfield County, CT DUI Lawyer

If you are facing first-time DUI charges, ask your Stamford, CT DUI attorney from Law Offices of Daniel P. Weiner about whether you qualify for the IDIP program. Our attorney provides a free consultation by calling 203-348-5846.