How many heel-to-toe steps should a driver be able to complete in the Walk and Turn test?

In the Walk and Turn test, a driver should be able to complete nine heel-to-toe steps in one direction. This test is designed to assess a person's ability to follow instructions and maintain balance while performing a physical task. By requiring the driver to take nine steps, the test provides a clear measure of their coordination and ability to comply with simple directions, both of which can be impaired by alcohol consumption.

The nine steps forward are followed by the driver turning on one foot and taking nine steps back, again exhibiting a heel-to-toe pattern. Completing this task successfully indicates better motor skills and cognitive function. The specific number of steps is crucial, as it is standardized to produce reliable results across different assessments of sobriety. Thus, a driver who can accurately perform this task reflects an understanding of balance and coordination, which is often compromised in impaired drivers.