Comprehensive Guide
Federal RDAP Program Guide
Everything you need to know about the Residential Drug Abuse Program. Learn how to qualify, what to expect, and how to potentially reduce your sentence by up to 12 months.
What is the RDAP Program?
The Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP) is the Bureau of Prisons' most intensive substance abuse treatment program. It's a 9-month program that houses participants in a dedicated treatment unit.
Unlike other prison programs, RDAP offers a tangible incentive: eligible inmates who successfully complete the program can receive up to 12 months off their sentence. This makes RDAP one of the most valuable opportunities available to federal inmates.
But here's what most people don't realize: eligibility is determined largely by what's in your Pre-Sentence Report (PSR). If substance abuse isn't properly documented before sentencing, you may miss this opportunity entirely.
RDAP By the Numbers
RDAP Eligibility Requirements
Understanding eligibility is crucial. Missing even one requirement can disqualify you from the program or the early release benefit.
Substance Abuse Documentation
Your Pre-Sentence Report (PSR) must document a substance abuse disorder within the 12 months prior to your arrest.
Sentence Length
You must have sufficient time remaining to complete the 9-month program plus follow-up. Generally 24+ months remaining.
No Disqualifying Offenses
Certain violent offenses, sex offenses, and weapons enhancements may disqualify you from early release (not the program itself).
BOP Psychology Approval
BOP psychology staff must verify your substance abuse history and recommend you for the program.
No Deportation Detainer
ICE detainers typically disqualify early release benefits, though program participation may still be beneficial.
Voluntary Participation
RDAP is voluntary. You must request placement and demonstrate commitment to treatment.
Critical: PSR Documentation
The most common reason for RDAP denial is inadequate substance abuse documentation in the Pre-Sentence Report. If you haven't been sentenced yet, work with your attorney NOW to ensure your substance history is properly documented. This is something that can rarely be fixed after the fact.
The Three Phases of RDAP
RDAP isn't just the 9-month residential program. It includes structured follow-up and transitional care.
Unit-Based Treatment
9 monthsIntensive treatment in a dedicated RDAP housing unit. Daily programming includes individual counseling, group therapy, and education.
Follow-Up Care
VariesContinued treatment and support after completing the residential phase. Maintains treatment gains while still incarcerated.
Transitional Care
6 monthsCommunity-based treatment during the final portion of your sentence, typically in a halfway house or home confinement.
Common RDAP Mistakes to Avoid
These are the errors I see most frequently. Avoiding them can mean the difference between early release and serving your full sentence.
PSR Documentation Gaps
Impact: Denial of program entry
Solution: Work with your attorney pre-sentencing to ensure substance abuse history is properly documented in the PSR.
Waiting Too Long
Impact: Insufficient time to complete program
Solution: Apply for RDAP designation as early as possible. The program requires significant time commitment.
Downplaying Substance Use
Impact: Failure to meet eligibility criteria
Solution: Be honest about substance use history. Minimizing can disqualify you from a valuable opportunity.
Not Understanding Disqualifiers
Impact: Disappointment when early release denied
Solution: Understand the difference between program eligibility and early release eligibility before planning.
RDAP Frequently Asked Questions
What is RDAP?
RDAP (Residential Drug Abuse Program) is an intensive 9-month treatment program offered by the Bureau of Prisons. It provides comprehensive substance abuse treatment in a dedicated housing unit with daily programming. Successful completion can earn eligible inmates up to 12 months off their sentence.
Who is eligible for RDAP?
Eligibility requires a documented substance abuse disorder in your PSR (within 12 months of arrest), sufficient time remaining on your sentence (generally 24+ months), no disqualifying convictions for the early release benefit, and BOP psychology staff recommendation. Having a substance abuse history documented is critical.
How much time can RDAP take off my sentence?
Eligible inmates who successfully complete RDAP can receive up to 12 months off their sentence. The exact reduction depends on your original sentence length and whether you have any disqualifying factors that prevent early release.
What if my PSR doesn't mention substance abuse?
This is the most common barrier to RDAP eligibility. If you have a substance abuse history, it must be documented in your PSR before sentencing. If your PSR is already finalized without this documentation, options are limited. This is why pre-sentencing planning is so important.
Can I still do RDAP if I have a violent offense?
You may still participate in the RDAP program with certain violent offenses, but you may not qualify for the early release benefit. Participation can still be valuable for treatment and for demonstrating rehabilitation.
How do I apply for RDAP?
You can request RDAP designation during the designation process before surrender, or apply after arriving at your facility. The earlier you indicate interest, the better your chances of timely placement.
What happens in RDAP daily?
RDAP involves approximately 500 hours of programming over 9 months. Daily activities include group therapy, individual counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, relapse prevention education, and practical life skills training.
Can RDAP be combined with other sentence reductions?
Yes. RDAP early release is separate from good time credits. Many inmates combine RDAP completion with good conduct time for maximum sentence reduction.
How Sam Helps with RDAP
RDAP eligibility is determined by details, many of which need to be established before sentencing. I help clients at every stage of the process.
Pre-Sentencing
Ensure your PSR properly documents substance abuse history. This is the most critical step.
Designation
Request appropriate facility designation with RDAP availability and capacity.
Program Success
Understand what to expect and how to successfully complete the program.
Don't Miss Your RDAP Opportunity
The window to properly document eligibility is before sentencing. If you're facing federal charges, the time to plan for RDAP is now.