Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety

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

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.

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.

Beneficiary eligibility is the same as applicant eligibility

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.

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.

This project is authorized by law through 2026.

This NOFO is sole source, and the only eligible applicant is the Automotive Coalition for Traffic Safety (ACTS). The Automotive Coalition for Traffic Safety must demonstrate that it has the infrastructure and staff to carry out the responsibilities of administering, coordinating, and implementing the activities of the Agreement. To be eligible for award of the Cooperative Agreement, the Automotive Coalition for Traffic Safety must meet the following requirements: • Have expertise and experience surrounding the performance specifications, verification and validation, testing, evaluation, and instrumentation of the DADSS technologies; • Have experience administering and managing several subcontractors simultaneously; and • Have a demonstrated ability to accomplish the efforts specified in Section B.6 of the NOFO.

NHTSA evaluates applications and selects awardee(s) in accordance with the NOFO stated criteria(s).

The Deadline for an application is generally 45 days following the posting of a NOFO on grants.gov.

Generally, 1 to 3 months (60 to 120 days) after application submittal