Full Notification

The Santa Maria Police Department will conduct a DUI checkpoint on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at an undisclosed location within the City of Santa Maria between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. 

Checkpoint locations are selected based on a history of DUI-related crashes and arrests. The primary purpose of DUI checkpoints is to promote public safety by deterring impaired driving and removing impaired drivers from the roadway.

The Santa Maria Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not limited to alcohol. Prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, cannabis, and other drugs can impair a person's ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. While cannabis is legal for adults 21 years of age and older, driving under the influence of cannabis or any other impairing substance is against the law.

Drivers arrested for DUI can face significant consequences, including fines and penalties, driver's license suspension, increased insurance costs, and possible jail time.

During the checkpoint, officers will be looking for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment.

The Santa Maria Police Department encourages everyone to plan ahead:

• Designate a sober driver before consuming alcohol or cannabis.
• Use a ride-share service, taxi, or public transportation.
• If you become impaired, stay where you are and do not drive.
• If you see an impaired driver on the road, safely pull over and call 9-1-1.

The Santa Maria Police Department remains committed to reducing impaired driving and keeping our roadways safe for everyone.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.


Press Release Issued By:
Sergeant Shane Armstrong
Traffic Unit
Santa Maria Police Department
[email protected]
(805) 928-3781