12-Hour Alcohol Education Program Maryland: What you need to know

If you have been instructed by the Maryland MVA, a District Court Judge, or the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) to complete a 12-Hour Alcohol Education Program (AEP), you are not alone. Thousands of Maryland drivers are referred to this program every year following a DUI or alcohol-related incident. This educational requirement may feel overwhelming at first, but understanding the process can make things much easier.

Below is a clear breakdown of what the program is, why you may have been referred, and what steps you must follow to stay in compliance and protect your driving privileges.

What Is the 12-Hour Alcohol Education Program (AEP)?

The AEP is an instructional and rehabilitative program designed for individuals who:

• Have been convicted of DUI or DWI

• Were referred by a District Court Judge, an Administrative Law Judge, or

• Are applying for a new Maryland driver’s license after having a license revoked for an alcohol-related offense

The AEP focuses on alcohol education, risk awareness, and responsible decision-making behind the wheel.

Depending on your assessment results, you may be required to complete:

• A 12-hour Alcohol Education Program

• A 26-session Alcohol Treatment Program, which includes the AEP curriculum.

Step 1: Receive Your MVA Referral Letter

Your referral letter is essential—it contains:

• The due date for starting your program

• Instructions for scheduling a preliminary alcohol assessment

• Directions on how to enroll in the AEP

If you lose your letter, you can request a duplicate from any MVA branch office or through the Driver Improvement Programs Unit. The letter can be printed, mailed, or faxed to you within 24 hours.

Step 2: Complete Your Preliminary Alcohol Assessment

Before starting the AEP, you must complete a professional alcohol assessment.This assessment determines whether you will complete:

• The 12-Hour Alcohol Education Program, or

• The 26-Session Alcohol Treatment Program

If you are not identified as alcohol-dependent or alcohol-abusive, you will only be required to complete the 12-hour course.

Step 3: Enroll in an Approved AEP Program

Once your assessment is complete, you must:

• Contact an approved AEP provider

• Sign up for an available session

• Begin the program within 90 days of the due date on your referral letter

• Bring your referral letter to your first class

• Pay the program fee directly to the provider

Each provider sets its own pricing.

What Happens If I Don’t Attend the AEP?

Failing to enroll or complete the AEP by the due date can lead to serious consequences:

• Your driver’s license will be suspended by the MVA

• You will receive a suspension notice with instructions to surrender your license

• You will not be able to apply for a new license until the AEP is successfully completed

Drivers who are required to attend the 26-session Treatment Program will be given a reasonable period of time to complete all sessions.

After Completing the Program

Once you successfully finish your AEP:

• The provider will give you a completion letter

• You may then apply for reinstatement or a new driver’s license (if required)

• Keep a copy of your completion verification for your records or court follow-up

Can Counseling Plus Inc. Help Me With My AEP Requirements?

Yes. At Counseling Plus Inc., we provide:

• MVA-approved alcohol assessments

• 12-hour Alcohol Education Programs

• 26-session Alcohol Treatment Programs

• Reports typically completed in 1–2 business days

• Court, MVA, and probation-approved services

Our team ensures you remain in full compliance and receive compassionate, professional support throughout the process.

📞 Call us at 301-565-9001🌐 Visit: counselingplusinc.com