Anyone who meets the training requirements as set forth by the DOT, can become a breath alcohol technician (BAT). An acceptable training course covers these two main topic areas:
- Procedural training cover 49 CFR Part 40 regulations on alcohol testing. This training is typically called Rules & Regulations training or procedural training. Students must complete procedural training before they may take the second part of their training.
- Instrument proficiency training covers the operations of a specific evidential breath testing device. This training is often referred to as EBT training. In addition to learning about how to operate a specific EBT, the student must complete 7 error-free mock alcohol tests in the presence of an instructor.
BATs must undergo this initial training covering the regulations and EBT proficiency before they are allowed to conduct DOT alcohol tests. Every 5 years from the date of their initial certification, the BAT must undergo refresher training covering the procedures and instrument, including the 7 mock tests. Refresher training ensures the BATs keep up on changes to the regulations and that their skills are current.
