Facing a DUI charge in Illinois can be stressful and overwhelming. Every year, many good people are arrested for DUI and must complete required steps to move forward. Under Illinois law, a DUI evaluation is required before a DUI case can be closed.
Braden Counseling Center provides court-approved DUI evaluations, all levels of DUI treatment, and driver’s license reinstatement guidance throughout Illinois. We proudly serve individuals in DeKalb, Kane, Ogle, and Whiteside counties, as well as surrounding areas. Financial assistance is available for eligible clients.
Court-Approved DUI Evaluations in Illinois
Braden Counseling Center offers state-compliant DUI evaluations that meet Illinois court and Secretary of State requirements. Our experienced clinicians complete evaluations accurately and efficiently to help you remain compliant with court orders and legal deadlines.
DUI Evaluation Services Include:
- Referrals and documentation for courts and attorneys
- Illinois court-approved DUI evaluations
- Alcohol and drug assessments
- All levels of DUI treatment:
- Minimal Risk
- Moderate Risk
- Significant Risk
- High Risk
- Referrals and documentation for courts and attorneys
One-Day DUI Evaluations Available
We understand that DUI cases often come with tight timelines. When possible, we offer one-day DUI evaluations, allowing you to complete your assessment quickly and reduce delays in your case.
Our staff will guide you through each step to ensure your evaluation is completed correctly and efficiently.
Documents Required for Your DUI Evaluation
To complete your DUI evaluation efficiently, please bring the following documents to your appointment or have your attorney send them to our office in advance:
Required Documents
- Statutory Summary Suspension or Law Enforcement Sworn Report
This document shows your BAC (blood alcohol concentration) or indicates a test refusal. If you were involved in an accident or had a blood draw, bring your police report if results are not yet available. - Driving Abstract for Court Purposes
Must be dated within the last 30 days and obtained from an Illinois Driver’s License Facility. Online or court copies are not accepted. - Blood Test Results (if applicable)
If a blood draw was taken, your DUI evaluation cannot be finalized until Illinois releases the results. - Evaluation Fee
Fee: $150, or $125 if prepaid. If you believe you qualify for financial assistance, bring proof of income or lack of income.
If additional information is required, you have 30 days from your first appointment to complete the evaluation. Completing documentation as soon as possible helps prevent delays and ensures compliance.
DUI Classification Levels in Illinois
Your classification level is determined by your DUI evaluation. There are three primary levels, with additional sub-classifications.
Level I – Minimal Risk
Typically applies to one DUI arrest unless:
- BAC was between .15 and .19
- You refused testing
Requirements:
Completion of a 10-hour Driver Risk Education (DRE) course
Level II – Moderate or Significant Risk
Level II Moderate Risk
- DUI evaluation
- Completion of DRE
- Minimum of 12 hours of early intervention alcohol education
Level II Significant Risk
- BAC of .20 or higher
- DUI evaluation
- DRE course
- Minimum of 20 hours of treatment
Aftercare often required
Level III – High Risk
Level III includes two categories:
High-Risk Alcohol Dependent
- Three or more dependency symptoms
High-Risk Nondependent
- Three or more DUI arrests within 10 years
- Fewer than three dependency symptoms
Level III Requirements:
- Outpatient, inpatient, or minimum 75 hours of intensive outpatient treatment
Minimum of 12 months abstinence
DUI Treatment Services
Braden Counseling Center provides all levels of DUI treatment at all five of our office locations. The majority of treatment must be completed prior to your hearing for license reinstatement.We work closely with you to ensure you meet both court and Secretary of State requirements and understand each step of the process.
Driver’s License Reinstatement in Illinois
A DUI arrest often impacts your ability to drive legally. The reinstatement process depends on whether your license was suspended or revoked.
If Your License Is Suspended
- A reinstatement fee must be paid
- It is recommended that the fee be sent 45 days before your eligibility date
- You are not legally allowed to drive until you receive official written notification from the Secretary of State
- Court requirements and Secretary of State requirements are separate processes
If Your License Is Revoked
License reinstatement requires a hearing with a Hearing Officer.
Informal Hearing
Required if:
- One DUI arrest
- One Statutory Summary Suspension
These hearings occur at local Driver’s License Facilities. Most facilities do not take appointments, and Hearing Officers are not available every day.
Formal Hearing
Required if:
- Two or more DUI arrests
- Two or more Statutory Summary Suspensions
Formal hearings:
- Require written application by mail
- Include a $50 hearing fee
- Typically take 3–6 weeks to receive a hearing date
- Hearing dates are often scheduled 3–6 weeks after notice
We have the necessary forms available in our office and assist clients throughout the application process.
Preparing for Your Hearing
The majority of your treatment must be completed before your hearing. If you are classified as substance-dependent, you must demonstrate:
- 12 months of sobriety
- Active participation in a support network
- Supporting documentation
Your DUI evaluation is valid for six months and must be updated if it expires. If reinstatement is denied, the denial letter must be addressed before reapplying.
The reinstatement process can feel confusing and overwhelming. We help remove uncertainty by guiding you step by step.Braden Counseling Center has an outstanding reputation with the Illinois Secretary of State and is highly knowledgeable about what is required to be fully prepared for hearings.
Why Choose Braden Counseling Center?
- Illinois court-approved provider
- All levels of DUI treatment available
- One-day DUI evaluations when possible
- Five convenient Illinois locations
- Compassionate, non-judgmental care
We offer services at our locations in Elgin, North Aurora, Rochelle, and Sycamore, Illinois.
