A 2-minute lesson from the Louisiana course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
By driving in Louisiana, you've already agreed to a chemical test if an officer believes you're impaired. Refusing doesn't help you: for most drivers, refusal brings a longer suspension than failing the test.
Implied consent
Driving on Louisiana highways means you've consented to tests of your blood alcohol and for abused or illegal controlled dangerous substances.
You may be asked to perform a field sobriety test or give a blood, urine or breath sample. The officer must have reason to believe you were driving under the influence and will advise you of your rights.
Before reinstatement after a refusal, you must file proof of future financial responsibility: an SR-22 (high-risk insurance) or $30,000 in cash or security. The SR-22 must be kept for three years.
A 19-year-old is stopped and blows 0.03. That's over the 0.02 limit for drivers under 21, so on a first offense the license is suspended for 180 days. Refusing the test would have meant 365 days.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
What does 'implied consent' mean under Louisiana law?
By driving, you've agreed to be tested
Police need your written consent to test
Only commercial drivers can be tested
Police need a warrant for any test
Answer: By driving, you've agreed to be tested
Implied consent means driving itself is treated as agreement to alcohol/drug testing upon a lawful DWI arrest.