What defines non-standardized field sobriety tests?

Non-standardized field sobriety tests are characterized as those assessments that may differ in administration and interpretation by various law enforcement officers, and they lack approval or guidelines set forth by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This means that such tests do not have a consistent methodology, which can lead to variability in how the tests are performed and the results interpreted.

For example, a non-standardized test might involve unique criteria or instructions that differ from the standardized tests, which have been rigorously evaluated for reliability and validity in detecting impairment. The absence of a standardized procedure can compromise the test's objectivity and consistency, making it less reliable for determining a driver's sobriety.

In contrast, tests that are approved by NHTSA are developed based on extensive research and are intended to provide law enforcement with a reliable method for assessing impairment. As such, they are recognized for their effectiveness and consistency. Similarly, tests that are uniformly used across all law enforcement agencies would be considered standardized, ensuring that all officers are evaluating drivers based on the same criteria.

Lastly, the notion that any test, standardized or non-standardized, always yields accurate results is misleading, as various factors can impact the reliability of field sobriety tests, including environmental conditions, the officer