Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety
Program Funding
Annual program obligations reported to SAM.gov.
Program Objective
The goal of the DADSS collaborative research program is to research and develop alcohol detection technologies that are less intrusive than currently available ignition interlocks. Technologies that are integrated into vehicles may hold the greatest promise for widespread deployment. This program is focused on the research, development and testing of non-invasive breath and touch-based alcohol detection devices and subsequent hardware that shall result in one or more commercially viable devices that can be installed in vehicles.
Eligibility
Eligible Applicants
- U.S. State Government
- Department/Agency of U.S. State
- Nonprofit Organization
- Not-for-Profit Organization
- For-Profit Organization
Designations are related to the ability to develop an operational in-vehicle alcohol detection system that the commercial licensing the technologies that are capable of fully passive operation for use in all motor vehicles.
How to Apply
Award Procedure
NHTSA evaluates applications and selects awardee(s) in accordance with the NOFO stated criteria(s).
Decision Timeline
- Approval: From 90 to 120 days
Generally, 1 to 3 months (60 to 120 days) after application submittal
Program details & compliance
Description
The Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety (DADSS) program is a collaborative research initiative between NHTSA and leading automotive manufacturers to develop non-invasive, in-vehicle technology that prevents alcohol-impaired driving. The program focuses on the engineering, testing, and eventual commercialization of sensors that can passively detect a driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and prevent vehicle operation if it exceeds legal limits. By integrating these systems into the vehicle’s cabin, the program aims to eliminate drunk driving fatalities through a seamless, technological solution that does not require active driver intervention. This research-driven assistance supports data collection, fleet testing, and technical standardization to prepare the technology for widespread consumer use.
Mission Categories
Primary: Highways, Public Roads, and Bridges
Use of Funds
Allowed Uses
To complete research and development with the result of the commercial licensing of one or both DADSS technologies (breath-based and/or touch-based) that are capable of fully passive operation for use in all motor vehicles.
Restrictions
Assistance is restricted to the research, development, and testing required to achieve commercial licensing of passive breath-based or touch-based alcohol detection technologies. Funds may not be used for general highway safety enforcement, the purchase of commercially available alcohol interlocks, or the construction of permanent testing facilities.
Required Documentation
Applicants must: Register with the System Award for Management (SAM) at www.sam.gov; Create a Grants.gov username and password; 2 CFR 200, Subpart E - Cost Principles applies to this program.
Reporting & Compliance
Applicable 2 CFR 200 Subparts
- Subpart B — General Provisions
- Subpart C — Pre-Federal Award Requirements
- Subpart D — Post-Federal Award Requirements
- Subpart E — Cost Principles
- Subpart F — Audit Requirements