In any DUI traffic stop, it does not take long (usually just a matter of minutes) before the police have the suspect step out the car to perform a series of “Field Sobriety Tests” (often referred to as “FSTs”). These tests, which are performed roadside, are meant to assist the DUI officer in determining if the suspect is driving under the influence and whether he/she should be arrested and taken to the police station to submit for a chemical test of their breath, blood or urine. They are designed to test a person’s balance, coordination, reaction time and ability to follow instructions.
In California, there are a number of tests a DUI officer can ask a suspect to perform. Below is a list of the most common field sobriety tests:
- Walk and Turn Test: Take 9 steps along a line in each direction.
- Rhomberg Test: Close your eyes, tilt head back and count to 30.
- Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Test: The DUI officer follows the stimulus with your eyes.
- Finger to Nose Test: Extend arms at your side, close eyes and touch finger to end of nose.
- One Leg Stand Test: Raise one foot off the ground and count to 30.
- Hand Pat Test: Repeatedly clapping your palm and then the back of your hand.
- Finger Count Test: Touching thumb to four fingertips up and back while county 1-2-3-4 and 4-3-2-1.
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