Louisiana Drug Recognition Expert

Next Class: June 23 - July 3, 2025 

Field Certifications to follow July 15-21, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL

What is a DRE?

A Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) is an officer who has been specially trained to conduct an examination on a person to determine if the person is impaired and, if so, whether the impairment is caused by drug use or by a medical condition. This examination is conducted in a controlled environment utilizing a Standardized and Systematic 12 12-step process. The Drug Evaluation and Classification Program (DECP) utilizes a format that has seven categories of drugs. These categories are determined based on the pharmacodynamics of that particular drug category. Pharmacodynamics is the medically known responses of drug use on human physiology. Once the examination is completed, the DRE is able to determine which drug category or categories the person has used. Drug Recognition Experts can be used in a variety of ways, from DWI Enforcement to internal investigations.

Drug Evaluation and Classification Program

The Drug Evaluation and Classification Program is sponsored by the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). 41 states, as well as Canada and several other nations, currently support the DEC Program. Hundreds of U.S. Law Enforcement Agencies participate in the DEC Program, and there are approximately 6,000 DRE's and 1,000 DRE Instructors worldwide. The training is intense and requires a level of commitment and dedication unparalleled in law enforcement. DRE training consists of the Pre-School and DRE School Classroom Training followed by Field Certification Training and a comprehensive Final Knowledge Examination, all totaling approximately 160 hours. Only after completing the extensive training program can officers be certified by the IACP as Drug Recognition Experts. DRE officers are required to continue their education of drug impairment and conduct the minimum number of drug evaluations during a two-year period to stay certified.

Drug Evaluation and Classification Program in Louisiana

Dates for the next DRE School have not been determined.  Applications may be submitted anytime.  AN APPLICATION MUST BE FILLED OUT WITH ALL REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS AND FORWARDED TO THE EMAIL ADDRESS ON THE APPLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS COURSE. There is no online registration process for this training (see the application link below). This training is only for officers meeting the minimum requirements outlined in the application. The training is offered free of charge to qualified officers. Lodging and meals are paid for according to state travel regulations. Any questions should be emailed to Sgt. Jared David at [email protected].

Louisiana DRE Application Rev 12 2023

To be considered for any upcoming DRE Course, an officer must complete the application and email it to the Louisiana DECP Coordinator, Sgt. Jared David, at [email protected].