Become a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE)
Join us in Little Rock and help us reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads by participating in our upcoming Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) Program.
A drug recognition expert or drug recognition evaluator (DRE) is a police officer trained to recognize impairment in drivers under the influence of drugs other than, or in addition to, alcohol. Participants will learn classification of drugs and their observable effects. The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) coordinates the International Drug Evaluation and Classification (DEC) Program with support from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the U.S. Department of Transportation.
This course certifies law enforcement officers as Drug Recognition Experts.
THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS JULY 22, 2024.
THE PROGRAM
DRE School:
Students will be required to successfully complete the DRE School that will be held at the Criminal Justice Institute on July 29-August 8, 2024.
Field Evaluation:
Upon successful completion of DRE School, the candidate will be required to attend the Field Evaluation Phase of the training. DRE Candidates will complete twelve required DRE evaluations on impaired subjects.
For students traveling more than 50 miles to either location of training, lodging will be provided and all meals and mileage (personal vehicles only) will be reimbursed, if not provided. Any reimbursement will be at the state per diem rate.
HOW TO APPLY
An officer must be a certified SFST graduate and have completed the Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE) course to attend this program.
To participate, you must complete the DRE Application Packet by July 22, 2024.
Documents to download, complete, and return:
- DRE Application Process form (includes more items to submit)
- DRE Application (incomplete applications will NOT be considered)
- DRE Commitment Pledge
- Student Resume
- One page cover letter explaining your reasons for wanting to be a DRE and why you feel you are qualified
- Copy of your SFST certification
- Copy of your ARIDE certification
- Letter of recommendation from your chief/sheriff
- Letter of recommendation from a current DRE in good standing (recommended, but not required)
All completed forms and required items should be sent to Harold Edmonson at [email protected] or mailed to: CJI, Attn: Harold Edmonson, 26 Corporate Hill Drive, Little Rock, AR 72205. Please remember, if you mail the packet, it should be sent before the deadline of July 22, 2024. Incomplete applications will not be considered.