In Illinois, police can arrest you for DUI without field sobriety tests. If an officer believes you are impaired based on what they see and hear, they have the authority to place you under arrest. No roadside test is required. This surprises a lot of people, but it happens more often than most drivers realize.
If you’ve been arrested for DUI in 2026, our Chicago, IL DUI defense lawyer can help you understand your rights and what comes next.
What Does Illinois Law Say About DUI and Impairment?
Under 625 ILCS 5/11-501, a person can be charged with DUI if they are in actual physical control of a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any intoxicating substance to a degree that makes them unable to drive safely.