History of IDA

The American Probation and Parole Association (APPA), along with its affiliate organizations, has a strong history of successfully implementing research, evaluation, and training programs. APPA has effectively administered numerous federally funded projects, including those supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Our constituents consistently look to us for high-quality, timely, and relevant information that helps them develop and implement more effective programs and practices.

In 2013, with support from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), APPA completed the initial validation of the Impaired Driving Assessment (IDA) using a normative sample of 948 Impaired drivers sentenced to probation. The IDA is a differential screening tool consisting of 45 items across two components. It is designed to:
 ● Estimate the risk for future impaired driving.
 ● Provide preliminary guidelines for service needs.
 ● Assess the level of responsivity to supervision and services.
 ● Identify the degree to which traffic safety has been jeopardized among individuals convicted of a DWI offense.

The IDA incorporates eight domains that measure key areas linked to impaired-driving recidivism, including:
 ● Prior justice system involvement (DWI-related and general).
 ● Alcohol and/or drug involvement.
 ● Mental health and mood adjustment issues.
 ● Resistance to or noncompliance with justice system interventions.

To support implementation, APPA developed a training curriculum equipping practitioners with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to effectively administer and apply the IDA with impaired-driving clients. Training is available both virtually, through live webinars and in person at APPA’s Training Institutes.

Building on this foundation, APPA and NHTSA partnered to create a computerized version of the IDA, making the instrument more accessible for courts and community supervision agencies nationwide. To date, professionals across 48 states and Guam have been trained in administering the IDA with impaired-driving clients, further advancing efforts to improve public safety and promote effective interventions.