What’s the Difference Between a Roadside Test and a Station Test for a DUI?

There’s a lot going on when it comes to a DUI. The first stages of arrest can result in different scenarios, such as various kinds of tests. There can be a roadside test in the form of a breathalyzer, and then there’s tests that are conducted in approved locations like the police station or hospitals after arrest. Let’s go over what these different tests mean for you and your DUI case.

Roadside Tests Versus Station Tests

First, roadside tests are considered the preliminary tests and take place before your arrest. On the other side of the fence are evidential or station tests, which are the ones you receive through a blood, breath, urine or even sweat test at the police station, hospital, etc. The evidential tests are conducted after your arrest.

The Purpose Behind Preliminary Tests

A preliminary test occurs while you are stopped for suspicion of impaired driving. You may also see this called a preliminary alcohol screening or PAS test. An officer will use a breathalyzer or personal breath tester (PBT) and ask you to submit to a breath test. The purpose of a PAS test is for the officer to establish probable cause for your DUI case. A refusal to this test usually means you will be arrested and possibly face license suspension or revocation due to implied consent.

Implied consent applies for anyone who has a U.S. driver’s license. When you receive your license, you are implying your consent to a chemical test to measure for intoxication when law enforcement requests it.

Now let’s go over evidentiary tests, which take place after your arrest.

Evidentiary Tests Explained

An evidentiary test can be in the form of a blood, breath, urine or sweat test at an approved location. These types of tests vary by state. The evidentiary or ‘station’ test’s purpose is to obtain evidence for the crime of impaired driving. Refusing this test means arrest in addition to the immediate revocation or suspension of your driver’s license.

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