APAP is a monitoring program, not a punishment—and completing it is how you regain your license
APAP stands for Alcohol Participation and Monitoring Program. It is a court-ordered or DMV-ordered program that monitors your driving and alcohol use after a suspension related to alcohol or drugs. You do not go to jail for APAP; instead, you attend classes, submit to random alcohol testing, and sometimes install a device in your car that checks your breath before the engine starts. Completing APAP successfully is the path back to a valid license.
The program exists because a suspension alone does not address the underlying reason for the suspension—usually a DUI arrest, a failed or refused breath test, or a conviction. APAP is designed to reduce the chance you will drive under the influence again. Once you finish the program and meet all its requirements, you can petition the DMV to reinstate your license.
Key Takeaways
- APAP is a monitoring program you must complete to have your license reinstated after an alcohol or drug-related suspension.
- The program typically includes alcohol education classes, random testing, and sometimes an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle.
- You enroll in APAP through a provider approved by your state's DMV, not through the DMV itself.
- Completing APAP and paying all associated fees is required before you can request license reinstatement from the DMV.
- If you fail to complete APAP or violate its terms, your suspension continues and may be extended.
How APAP works and what you have to do
APAP has three main parts: education, monitoring, and sometimes a device. First, you attend alcohol education classes—usually between 8 and 16 hours spread over several weeks. These classes teach you about the effects of alcohol, the risks of impaired driving, and strategies to avoid driving under the influence. The exact number of hours depends on your state and the severity of your case.
Second, you submit to random alcohol testing. This might mean calling a phone number each day to see if you are selected for a test, or visiting a testing location on a schedule set by the program. Tests can be breath, urine, or blood tests. You pay for each test, usually between $10 and $50 per test.
Third, if your case requires it, you install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. This device measures your breath alcohol level before allowing the engine to start. If your breath alcohol is above a set limit (usually 0.02%), the car will not start. You also have to blow into the device periodically while driving to prove you have not been drinking. These devices cost $60 to $150 per month to lease and maintain.
Finding an approved APAP provider in your state
You do not enroll in APAP through the DMV. Instead, you find a provider that your state's DMV has approved. Your DMV website will have a list of approved providers, or you can call the DMV directly to ask for referrals. Some states have only a few providers; others have many. Call ahead to ask about their schedule, costs, and how quickly they can enroll you.
When you contact a provider, have your case information ready: your name, driver's license number, the date of your suspension, and the reason for it. The provider will tell you what the program will cost, how long it will take, and when you can start. Costs vary widely by state and provider, but expect to pay between $500 and $2,000 total for the full program, including classes, testing, and device fees if applicable.
Some providers offer payment plans if you cannot pay the full amount upfront. Ask about this when you call. Starting the program as soon as possible after your suspension is important—the longer you wait, the longer your license stays suspended.
What happens during the program
Once you enroll, the provider will give you a schedule for classes and testing. You must attend every class and show up for every test. Missing even one appointment can result in a violation report sent to the DMV, which can extend your suspension or result in additional penalties.
During the program, you are expected to stay sober. Any positive alcohol test is a violation. Some programs allow one or two violations before terminating you; others have a zero-tolerance policy. If you are terminated from APAP, you will have to start over with a new provider, and your suspension will likely be extended.
The program typically lasts 3 to 12 months, depending on your state and the severity of your case. Your provider will tell you the expected end date when you enroll. Some programs are shorter if you have no violations; others are longer if you do.
Reinstatement after you complete APAP
When you finish APAP, your provider will issue you a certificate of completion. This is a critical document—keep it safe. You will need it to request license reinstatement from the DMV.
To reinstate your license, contact your state's DMV and ask for the reinstatement process. You will typically need to submit your certificate of completion, pay a reinstatement fee (usually $100 to $300), and sometimes pass a written or road test depending on how long your license was suspended. Some states require a new road test; others do not. Call the DMV to find out what your state requires.
Reinstatement is not automatic. You have to request it. The DMV will review your paperwork and, if everything is in order, will restore your driving privileges. This can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on how busy your local DMV is.
What happens if you do not complete APAP
If you do not enroll in APAP or do not complete it, your license remains suspended indefinitely. You cannot drive legally, and driving on a suspended license carries serious penalties: fines, additional jail time, and a longer suspension. Some states will also revoke your license entirely if you ignore an APAP requirement for too long.
If you are struggling to complete APAP—because of cost, schedule conflicts, or other reasons—talk to your provider or the court that ordered the program. Some providers can adjust your schedule or offer payment plans. The court may also be able to modify the program requirements in some cases. But ignoring the requirement will only make things worse.
APAP and ignition interlock devices
Not all APAP cases require an ignition interlock device, but many do. If your state or court orders one, you must have it installed before you can drive legally again, even after you complete the rest of APAP.
The device is installed by a certified technician and costs money to install, maintain, and remove. You are responsible for all costs. The device records every time you use it, and those records are sent to the program provider and sometimes to the court. If you tamper with the device, try to bypass it, or have someone else blow into it for you, that is a serious violation that can result in criminal charges.
Once your APAP period ends and your license is reinstated, you may still be required to keep the device installed for a set period—sometimes 6 months to a year. Your provider will tell you when you can have it removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive while I am in APAP?
Not unless your state issues a restricted or provisional license that allows you to drive only to work, school, or APAP appointments. Most states do not issue these during APAP. You should assume you cannot drive legally until you complete the program and your license is reinstated. Driving on a suspended license, even to APAP classes, is illegal.
What if I cannot afford APAP?
Talk to your APAP provider about payment plans or sliding-scale fees. Some providers offer these options. You can also ask the court that ordered APAP whether it can reduce the program requirements or extend your timeline. However, you cannot avoid APAP entirely—it is a court or DMV requirement, not optional.
How long does APAP take?
Most programs last 3 to 12 months. The exact length depends on your state, the severity of your case, and whether you have any violations during the program. Your provider will give you an estimated end date when you enroll. Completing it faster requires staying sober and meeting every requirement without violations.
What if I fail a test during APAP?
One positive test is usually reported as a violation. Depending on your program's rules, one or two violations may be allowed, or the program may terminate you when ready. If you are terminated, you will have to start over with a new provider, and your suspension will be extended. If you struggle with alcohol use, ask your provider about treatment resources.
Do I have to install an ignition interlock device?
Only if your state law or court order requires it. Not all APAP cases require a device. Ask your provider or the court that ordered APAP whether a device is required in your case. If it is, you must have it installed and maintained throughout the program and sometimes for a period after.