This article was last updated on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.

How to Enroll in the MADD Victim Impact Panel

Currently, the MADD Victim Impact Panel (VIP) is being conducted in a virtual format and costs $65. Even after the COVID crisis, the local courts have decided to allow for the virtual format because of its reduced costs, security features, the photo of attendees on the certificate, and the fact that the certificate is provided immediately at the end of the class.

To attend the MADD Victim Impact Panel course, follow these steps:

1. Visit: https://maddvip.org/ to find a session.
2. “Check Eligibility” and then “Start a New Panel.”
3. Follow the directions on the screen to take the MADD Victim Impact Panel course.
4. For technical assistance, please call 702-732-0214 during regular business hours from 9 am to 5 pm Pacific Time.

Frequently Asked Questions: 

• Q: How much does it cost?
  • A: There is a $65.00 enrollment fee, and you can pay online at the start of the course.
• Q: Is the course offered in Spanish?
  • A: The course is offered in Spanish. Click on the “Language” tab at the top of the screen to select the Spanish option.
• Q: When can I take the course?
  • A: The course runs around the clock 24/7.
• Q: Why does it say I am not eligible?
  • A: If you get a message that you are not eligible, change your privacy settings to allow your location to be detected and that you are physically in Florida.
• Q: Must I use a computer, or can I use my cell phone?
  • Any computer or smartphone with a working camera can be used.
• Q: How do I get the certificate?
  • You will get your certificate immediately after the class. Save it to your device and then send a copy to your attorney. Make sure to save the confirmation email and any proof of attendance you receive after completing the panel.

History of the MADD Victim Impact Panel

Years ago, in Hillsborough County, FL, the MADD Victim Impact Panel (VIP) met once a month on a Monday night. For each session, nearly 200 people would gather for the VIP Panel at the Jail Assembly Room, which is the building at the north end of the Falkenburg Road Jail, at 520 N. Franklin Rd., Tampa, FL 33619. The panel was hosted by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).

The victim impact panel can be required as a condition of DUI probation. In fact, many of the judges in Hillsborough County will require attendance at the Victim Impact Panel as a condition of probation, especially if the DUI conviction involves injury or property damage. In some cases, the judge might even require the DUI VIP if the case is reduced to reckless driving.

Additionally, the Victim Impact Panel is now required as a condition of entering the RIDR Program. RIDR is the new DUI diversion program in Hillsborough County available for a first DUI. To enter RIDR, you must provide proof to the SAO that you have attended one session of the Victim Impact Panel.

What is the Victim Impact Panel (VIP)?

The Victim Impact Panel in Tampa is hosted by Mothers Against Drunk Driving. The purpose of the panel is to educate those recently arrested for DUI about how the offense impacts others. At the panel, the victims of DUI tell their gut-wrenching stories of loss and tragedy.

The Victim Impact Panel is a court-ordered program. Historically, if you were interested in attending a Victim Impact Panel and have not been court-ordered, you may be admitted, space permitting, but you will not receive proof of attendance.

When it was in person, the MADD DUI Victim Impact Panel prohibited drinking or drug use before or while attending. All attendees were subject to alcohol testing. A positive alcohol test would cause a violation of probation. Anyone suspected of being under the influence was denied admission to the program.  Law enforcement was present.

Historically, for the in-person class, you were required to bring:

1. photo identification;
2. a court order or paperwork for probation MUST be presented;
3. A registration fee of $40.00 is paid via a Money Order or Bank Cashier’s Check ONLY Payable to MADD ( no cash is accepted).

Individuals on probation for DUI in Hillsborough County must register with their probation officer. For individuals on probation for DUI outside of Hillsborough County or with the Department of Corrections (DOC).

No children are allowed.  No food, beverages, cell phones, or other electronic devices are permitted. Cell phone use or texting will be cause for dismissal from this program.