Who pays for drug or alcohol tests if a driver is pulled over?

In the context of being pulled over for suspected drug or alcohol use, the responsibility for covering the costs associated with drug or alcohol tests typically falls on the driver, especially if they are found to be guilty of driving under the influence. This is based on the understanding that the tests are a part of the legal process to establish the driver's impairment and ongoing compliance with laws related to driving safety.

When a driver is pulled over and suspected of being under the influence, they are usually required to undergo testing as part of the legal proceedings. If the test confirms their impairment, the driver becomes liable for the costs incurred. This ensures that accountability is placed on the individual whose actions prompted the testing in the first place, reinforcing the legal responsibility of drivers to adhere to safe driving statutes.

In some states, there may be situations where the state absorbs the cost of these tests, but the prevailing rule is that the driver is responsible for the testing fees, primarily because it serves the purpose of confirming their culpability in the offense.