🧾 DUI Court Preparation Checklist
Going to court for a DUI can feel overwhelming — but being prepared can help ease your nerves and show the judge that you’re taking your situation seriously.
This checklist walks you through what to bring, how to act, and what to expect on your court date. You can print this page or check off each item as you go.
📁 What to Bring to Court
Make sure you have all the paperwork and documents you might need:
- ☐ Your photo ID (driver’s license or state-issued ID)
- ☐ A copy of your DUI citation or ticket
- ☐ Any court paperwork or appearance notice
- ☐ Proof of completed DUI school (if required)
- ☐ SR-22 insurance certificate (if applicable)
- ☐ Proof of any treatment programs you’re enrolled in
- ☐ A copy of the police report (if you’ve obtained one)
- ☐ Bail or bond paperwork
- ☐ Character reference letters (optional but helpful)
👔 What to Wear to DUI Court
You don’t need a suit, but you should dress respectfully. Avoid casual or flashy outfits.
- ☐ Dress in clean, conservative clothes (business casual is a safe bet)
- ☐ Closed-toe shoes — no flip-flops or sandals
- ☐ No hats, sunglasses, or large accessories
- ☐ Avoid clothing with logos, slogans, or offensive graphics
- ☐ Cover tattoos or piercings if possible
🕒 Before You Leave
The last thing you want is to arrive late or miss something important.
- ☐ Double-check the court date and time
- ☐ Look up the courthouse address and where to park
- ☐ Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early
- ☐ Arrange time off from work or school
- ☐ Organize transportation if your license is suspended
🧠 Know What to Expect in Court
Being mentally prepared helps you feel more confident in front of the judge.
- ☐ Understand your charges (first DUI, refusal, BAC level, etc.)
- ☐ Know your plea options (guilty, not guilty, no contest)
- ☐ Be ready to speak clearly and respectfully
- ☐ If you don’t have a lawyer, consider asking for a public defender
- ☐ Keep your answers short and respectful
📞 If You Have a Lawyer
- ☐ Confirm your meeting time before court
- ☐ Bring any paperwork your lawyer requested
- ☐ Let them speak on your behalf unless told otherwise
- ☐ Write down questions in advance so you don’t forget
🧾 Courtroom Behavior Checklist
- ☐ Turn off your phone or leave it outside the courtroom
- ☐ Stand when the judge enters
- ☐ Don’t speak unless addressed
- ☐ Be polite to everyone — even other defendants
- ☐ Avoid arguing, raising your voice, or interrupting
- ☐ Stay calm, listen carefully, and follow instructions
📥 Want to Save This Checklist?
We recommend printing this page or saving it as a PDF so you can check things off as you prepare.
🙋 Still Have Questions?
Use our DUI Arrest Evaluation to get fast, personalized next steps — or visit our DUI Tools page to explore more.
🧠 Tip:
Preparation goes a long way — and judges notice it. Showing up early, dressed well, and organized can leave a better impression, especially if you’re handling the case on your own.