An alternative program was designed for youth who were charged with an alcohol or marijuana offense in San Bernardino County, California. In place of a conviction, the youth could attend an extended educational program that emphasized their ability to change behavior and to understand the consequences of risk-taking behavior. An evaluation was completed by the participants, demonstrating that this population of youth began to experiment with alcohol and marijuana around 12 and 13 years of age. A large number of youths were identified for nontraffic offenses, which offered an opportunity to intervene before members of this population become involved in a motor vehicle crash.