Free NC-BLET DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which of the following is the first phase in the DWI detection process?
- Personal Contact
- Vehicle in Motion (Correct answer)
- Pre-Arrest Screening
- Post-Arrest Procedures
Correct answer: Vehicle in Motion
The DWI detection process is divided into three phases. Phase One, Vehicle in Motion, involves observing the vehicle and noting any driving behaviors that might indicate impairment. Phase Two is Personal Contact, and Phase Three is Pre-Arrest Screening.
Question 2: During the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test, how many total validated clues can be observed for impairment across both eyes?
- 4
- 6 (Correct answer)
- 8
- 3
Correct answer: 6
The HGN test checks for three clues in each eye, for a total of six possible clues. The clues are lack of smooth pursuit, distinct and sustained nystagmus at maximum deviation, and onset of nystagmus prior to 45 degrees. Observing four or more clues is a strong indicator of a BAC of 0.08 or higher.
Question 3: Which of the following is NOT one of the eight validated clues for the Walk-and-Turn standardized field sobriety test?
- Starts too soon
- Steps off the line
- Raises arms for balance
- Takes the correct number of steps (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Takes the correct number of steps
Taking the correct number of steps (nine steps out, nine steps back) is the expected performance, not a clue of impairment. The eight clues are: cannot keep balance while listening to instructions, starts too soon, stops while walking, does not touch heel-to-toe, steps off the line, uses arms to balance, improper turn, and incorrect number of steps.
Question 4: How many validated clues are there for the One-Leg Stand standardized field sobriety test?
- 2
- 3
- 4 (Correct answer)
- 6
Correct answer: 4
The One-Leg Stand test has four validated clues of impairment. These clues are: sways while balancing, uses arms to balance, hops, and puts foot down. Observing two or more clues indicates likely impairment.
Question 5: Under North Carolina's implied consent law, any person who drives a vehicle on a highway or public vehicular area agrees to the chemical analysis of their breath or blood for what purpose?
- To determine their blood type in case of an accident.
- To determine the presence of any illegal substance.
- To determine their alcohol concentration or the presence of an impairing substance. (Correct answer)
- Only to determine their alcohol concentration if an open container is found.
Correct answer: To determine their alcohol concentration or the presence of an impairing substance.
G.S. 20-16.2, the implied consent statute, states that anyone driving in NC implicitly agrees to a chemical analysis to determine their alcohol concentration or the presence of any other impairing substance if charged with an implied-consent offense. This is a key tool for DWI enforcement.
Question 6: What is the primary purpose of administering a Portable Breath Test (PBT) at the roadside during a DWI investigation?
- To obtain a definitive BAC reading for court evidence.
- To establish probable cause for a DWI arrest. (Correct answer)
- To satisfy the requirements of the implied consent law.
- To determine if the driver requires medical attention.
Correct answer: To establish probable cause for a DWI arrest.
The result of a PBT is not admissible in court to prove a specific BAC level. Its primary function is to serve as one more piece of evidence to help an officer establish probable cause to arrest a driver for DWI and require an evidentiary chemical analysis.
Question 7: In North Carolina, it is unlawful for a person 21 years of age or older to operate a non-commercial motor vehicle on a highway or public vehicular area with an alcohol concentration of:
- 0.05 or more
- 0.08 or more (Correct answer)
- 0.10 or more
- Any measurable amount
Correct answer: 0.08 or more
G.S. 20-138.1 establishes the per se offense for DWI. For a person 21 or older operating a non-commercial vehicle, the legal limit for alcohol concentration is 0.08. Different limits apply to commercial drivers (0.04) and drivers under 21 (any amount).
Free NC-BLET DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Questions and Answers
Which of the following is the first phase in the DWI detection process?