NCDMV Medical Review – Substance Use Evaluations

D&A Assessment Services provides Substance Use Evaluations for the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) Medical Review Branch. These evaluations are often required when the DMV needs additional information to determine whether an individual meets medical and safety requirements to hold or reinstate a driver’s license.

Medical Review evaluations are administrative in nature and are focused on driving safety and compliance, not punishment.


What Is a Medical Review Substance Use Evaluation?

A Medical Review Substance Use Evaluation is a structured assessment completed by a licensed or certified substance use professional at the request of the NCDMV. The purpose of the evaluation is to provide the DMV with objective information related to substance use history and current stability as it relates to safe driving.

The evaluation helps the Medical Review Branch determine whether any conditions or follow-up requirements are necessary before a driving privilege decision is made.


When Is This Evaluation Required?

You may be referred for a Medical Review Substance Use Evaluation if the NCDMV has concerns related to substance use, which may include:

  • Prior alcohol or drug-related driving incidents
  • Reports submitted to the Medical Review Branch
  • License suspensions or reinstatement reviews
  • Other circumstances requiring medical or behavioral review

The DMV will notify you directly if this evaluation is required.


What to Expect During the Evaluation

During your appointment, a licensed professional will:

  • Review relevant driving and substance use history
  • Conduct a structured, confidential interview
  • Complete the required Medical Review documentation
  • Provide a professional report to the NCDMV Medical Review Branch

Our goal is to ensure the process is clear, respectful, and thorough, while meeting all DMV requirements.


Important Information

  • Evaluations are completed only at the request of the NCDMV Medical Review Branch
  • D&A does not make licensing decisions; final determinations are made solely by the DMV
  • Recommendations, if any, are based on state guidelines and professional standards
  • Completion of an evaluation does not guarantee license approval or reinstatement

What Do I Need to Complete My Evaluation?

To ensure your Medical Review Substance Use Evaluation can be completed without delays, please bring the following to your appointment:

  • All paperwork provided to you by the NCDMV Medical Review Branch
  • A list of any current medications, including dosage and prescribing provider
  • Information regarding any previous or current substance use education or treatment, if applicable
  • A government-issued photo ID
  • Payment of the $150 evaluation fee
  • A copy of your North Carolina Driving Record (NCDR)
    • If you do not have a current NCDR, D&A can obtain one on your behalf for an additional fee

Bringing these items allows your evaluation to be completed efficiently and helps avoid the need for rescheduling.

If you are unsure whether you have everything you need, our team is happy to answer questions before your appointment.


Scheduling Your Evaluation

If you have received notice from the NCDMV Medical Review Branch requesting a Substance Use Evaluation, our team can help guide you through the process and scheduling.