The SFST (Standardized Field Sobriety Testing) battery is a series of three psychophysical tests validated by NHTSA to detect impairment in drivers. Mastering these protocols is essential for law enforcement officers to effectively identify DUI suspects and provide admissible courtroom testimony. Our free resources cover the SFST test procedures, scoring criteria, and legal standards.
Whether you are a police academy recruit or an experienced officer seeking recertification, our SFST practice test questions will help you retain critical knowledge. We cover the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN), Walk and Turn (WAT), and One Leg Stand (OLS) tests in detail, ensuring you are prepared for both the written exam and practical applications.
The NHTSA SFST curriculum is the gold standard for impaired driving enforcement in the United States. Passing the SFST instructions and proficiency exams certifies you to administer these tests during traffic stops.
Prepare for the SFST - Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Certified exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.
Quick review of SFST clues and procedures
The NHTSA SFST curriculum is broken down into specific modules. Understanding the mechanics of the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN), Walk and Turn (WAT), and One Leg Stand (OLS) is critical for passing the SFST written test.
The SFST certification process consists of three main testing components. You must master the administration and scoring of the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus, Walk and Turn, and One Leg Stand tests as defined by the NHTSA SFST manual.
The HGN test checks for involuntary eye jerking. It is the most reliable of the three tests.
A divided attention test requiring the subject to listen to instructions while maintaining a stance.
Tests balance and counting ability. The subject must hold one foot up for 30 seconds.
The final written test covers validation studies, administrative procedures, and case law.
Instructor-led evaluation where you must demonstrate all three tests without error.
Testing live subjects who have consumed alcohol in a controlled environment.
The most critical part of the SFST test is giving the instructions exactly as written in the NHTSA SFST manual. Deviating from the script can invalidate the test results in court.
Estimated score calculation
Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)
Your Score: 105 correct ✓ PASS
The path to becoming SFST certified usually begins at a police academy or through a specialized SFST training course offered by your agency. The 24-hour NHTSA curriculum is the standard requirement.
Enroll in Police Academy
24hr SFST Class
Pass Written & Practical
Field Application
For most law enforcement officers, the SFST training cost is covered by their agency. However, private security or legal professionals may pay out of pocket for SFST courses.
Almost all sworn officers receive SFST certification for free as part of their employment training. Agencies also typically cover the cost of the SFST refresher course.
For official information on NHTSA SFST training and certification, contact these organizations.
Services: Local Certification
Contact: Check Local Listings
Services: Basic/Refresher Courses
Contact: Local Registrar
Join thousands of officers who have used our free SFST practice test questions to master the NHTSA standards and ace their certification.
To maintain SFST certification, officers must demonstrate continued proficiency. While NHTSA guidelines suggest a refresher every two years, state POST boards set the specific requirements.
Regular SFST refresher training is crucial not just for certification, but for maintaining credibility during cross-examination in court.