Licensed Behavioral Health Provider in Maryland
12-Hour Alcohol Education Program in Maryland
Court-approved, MVA-recognized alcohol education program for first-time DUI/DWI offenders in Maryland. Available virtually and in-person in English and Spanish.
Hablamos español- Nuestro equipo puede guiarte paso a paso.
Virtual & In-Person
Private Insurance Accepted
English and Spanish
What Is This Service?
The 12-Hour Alcohol Education Program (AEP) is a state-approved educational program designed for individuals who have been charged with a first-offense DUI or DWI in Maryland. The program consists of 12 hours of structured education about alcohol use, its effects on the body and mind, and the risks associated with impaired driving.
Counseling Plus Inc. offers this program in compliance with Maryland state requirements. The curriculum covers the physiological and psychological effects of alcohol, the legal consequences of impaired driving, risk factors for substance use, and strategies for making safer decisions in the future.
The program is designed to be educational rather than punitive. Our licensed facilitators create a respectful, non-judgmental environment where participants can learn, reflect, and develop healthier attitudes toward alcohol use. The goal is to reduce the likelihood of future alcohol-related offenses through evidence-based education.
Who Needs This Service?
The 12-Hour Alcohol Education Program is typically required for first-time DUI/DWI offenders in Maryland who have been referred by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), a district or circuit court, a probation officer, or an attorney. It is the standard educational requirement for individuals whose evaluation indicates no need for a more intensive treatment program.
You may need this program if you have received a DUI or DWI charge and the court or MVA has ordered you to complete an alcohol education program as part of your sentencing, probation requirements, or license reinstatement process. The program is also appropriate for individuals participating in diversion programs who need to complete an educational component.
If you are unsure whether the 12-hour program is the right requirement for your situation, our team can help you understand what your court or the MVA has ordered and guide you through the process. We recommend bringing your court order or MVA referral letter to your first appointment so we can confirm you are enrolling in the correct program.
How the Process Works
The program consists of structured group and/or individual sessions that focus on relapse prevention education, recovery planning, coping skills, emotional regulation, stress management, and healthy lifestyle development.
Participants work with experienced counselors to identify personal relapse triggers, develop individualized prevention strategies, and strengthen the skills needed to maintain recovery over time.
Each session builds upon previous topics, allowing participants to create a practical relapse prevention plan that can be applied in everyday life.
How Long Does It Take?
The 12-Hour Alcohol Education Program consists of 12 hours of instruction, typically spread across multiple sessions. The exact schedule depends on current class availability, but most participants complete the program within 6 to 12 weeks.
Sessions are scheduled at convenient times, including evenings, to accommodate work and personal commitments. Virtual sessions are available for those who prefer to attend remotely. We also offer Spanish-language sessions for clients who are more comfortable participating in Spanish.
It's important to start early — especially if you have a court deadline. We recommend contacting us as soon as you receive your court order or MVA referral so we can schedule your sessions with enough time to complete the program before your deadline.
Who Accepts It?
Our 12-Hour Alcohol Education Program is accepted by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), Maryland district and circuit courts, probation officers, and attorneys throughout the state. The program meets the educational requirements set forth by the state for first-offense DUI/DWI cases.
We provide all necessary documentation for legal compliance, including enrollment verification letters, attendance records, progress reports, and completion certificates. Documentation can be sent directly to your attorney, probation officer, or the court upon request.
If you are a Maryland resident who received a DUI in another state, our program may also satisfy your requirements. However, acceptance depends on the referring agency — we recommend obtaining written approval from your out-of-state court or program before enrolling to ensure the program will be accepted.
How Do I Get Started?
Contact us at (301) 565-9001 or through our online intake form. Our bilingual team will gather basic information, confirm what documentation you need, and schedule your evaluation — often within 48 hours.
If you have a referral letter, court order, employer request, or school documentation, bring it to your appointment. If you are self-referred, bring a photo ID and insurance information.
If you have a referral letter, court order, employer request, or school documentation, bring it to your appointment. If you are self-referred, bring a photo ID and insurance information.
HOW IT WORKS
Three Simple Steps to Get Started
We make the process as easy as possible so you can focus on what matters.
Complete the Intake Form Below
Fill out a quick form online or over the phone. Takes less than 10 minutes.
Speak With Our Team
We'll review your situation and help you understand exactly what's required.
Start Your Program
Begin your program — in person or online. We provide all documentation for court.
