What are the purposes of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs)?

• A. To determine a driver's willingness to comply with police.
• B. To educate the public not to drink.
• C. To detect impairment and establish probable cause for DUI/DWI arrest.
• D. To measure blood alcohol concentration.

Answer: (C)

SFSTs are used to identify whether a driver is impaired and to provide objective indicators that help an officer establish probable cause for a DUI/DWI arrest. They’re standardized performance tests designed to reveal signs of intoxication, not to give a precise measurement of blood alcohol concentration. They don’t educate the public or measure BAC themselves. A chemical test later can determine the actual BAC, but the field tests mainly signal impairment and justify the arrest. This is why the best choice centers on detecting impairment and establishing probable cause.