What is the minimum number of steps a subject should take during the Walk-and-Turn test?

During the Walk-and-Turn test, the minimum number of steps a subject should take is 9 steps in one direction, which supports the idea that the answer indicating 12 steps might refer to a common practice where subjects take a total of 12 steps to complete the test effectively.

The Walk-and-Turn test is designed to assess a subject's coordination, balance, and ability to follow instructions, all of which can be affected by alcohol consumption. While 8 steps are often mentioned as a standard, the structure of the test typically involves 9 steps in one direction and 9 steps back, making a total count that aligns with a broader understanding of the test protocol.

Utilizing the Walk-and-Turn test in practice, law enforcement officers look for specific indicators of impairment, such as difficulty balancing, starting before instructions are complete, or taking the wrong number of steps, further solidifying the test's effectiveness in DUI evaluations.