WHAT ARE THE FIELD SOBRIETY TESTS?
The Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs) are three tests administered at the scene by the police to determine if the subject is intoxicated. There are other tests that can be performed, but the following three are the only ones certified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Walk and Turn: In this test, the subject must stand on a line with his feet in the heel-to-toe position with his arms at his sides. He must then take steps down the line in a prescribed way, turn around, and then return to his original position while counting his steps aloud. One Leg Stand: In this test, the subject must stand with his heels together and arms at his sides. The subject then must stand on one foot and hold the other foot straight out and approximately six inches off the ground while counting aloud. Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN): “Nystagmus” refers to an involuntary jerking of the eyeball. Under the influence of alcohol, this involuntary jerking can be more distinct. In this test, the subjec
