If you’re facing federal prison time — or already incarcerated — you may have heard of RDAP, the Residential Drug Abuse Program. It’s more than just a class. For many inmates, it’s the only way to reduce their sentence by up to 12 months.
At PrisonLawFirm.com, we’re here to explain exactly what RDAP is, how to qualify, and how to maximize the benefits for you or your loved one.
What Is RDAP?
RDAP is a 500-hour, 9-month residential drug treatment program offered by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). It’s the only BOP program that can lead to early release from prison, making it one of the most valuable tools in the system.
Participants live in a separate unit and attend structured therapy and classes aimed at treating substance use disorders through cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
The Real Benefit: Up to 12 Months Off Your Sentence
The biggest reason RDAP matters? Sentence reduction.
If you complete RDAP:
- You may receive up to 12 months off your sentence
- You may also be eligible for 6 months of halfway house or home confinement
- You leave prison sooner, with structured reentry support
That’s potentially 18 months earlier freedom — all from one program.
RDAP Eligibility Requirements
You must meet all of the following to be accepted:
1. Diagnosed Substance Use Disorder (SUD)
You must have a verifiable history of substance abuse within 12 months prior to your arrest. This must be documented in:
- Your Presentence Investigation Report (PSR), or
- Medical/mental health records, or
- A clinical interview with BOP staff
Pro Tip: If you haven’t been sentenced yet, work with an attorney to document substance abuse history in your PSR. It matters more than anything.
2. Sufficient Time Left
You must have at least 24 months left to serve when referred to RDAP to complete it and benefit fully.
3. No Disqualifying Offenses
Some convictions make you ineligible for sentence reduction, including:
- Violent offenses involving weapons
- Terrorism-related crimes
- Sexual offenses
You may still take the program — but without sentence reduction.
4. Willingness to Participate
RDAP is voluntary, and participants must agree to follow rules and complete follow-up programs (like TDAT, the Transitional Drug Abuse Treatment after release).
Common RDAP Misconceptions
“I’ll automatically get a year off if I take RDAP.”
→ False. You must complete the program and meet all eligibility requirements.
“I have to be addicted to hard drugs.”
→ False. RDAP is available for all substance use disorders — including alcohol, marijuana, prescription pills, etc.
“I’ll be disqualified if I got a gun charge.”
→ Maybe. If the gun was involved in the offense, it likely disqualifies you. But a separate, unrelated gun possession may not.
What’s in the RDAP Program?
RDAP is divided into three phases:
- Orientation & Initial Treatment (3 months)
– Introduces CBT principles and community living - Intensive Treatment (3 months)
– Group sessions, personal development, anger management, relapse prevention - Transition & Reentry Planning (3 months)
– Prepares you for halfway house or home confinement
Participants live in a therapeutic community, meaning they’re expected to hold each other accountable — not just show up.
Where Is RDAP Offered?
RDAP is offered in dozens of BOP facilities nationwide.
Placement is based on:
- Bed availability
- Security level
- Your location and release date
Some well-known RDAP facilities:
- FCI Milan (MI)
- FCI Elkton (OH)
- FCI Terminal Island (CA)
- FMC Lexington (KY)
- VIEW COMPLETE LIST HERE >>
You must be transferred to a designated RDAP facility, which may take time. Planning early is key.
When Should You Apply?
As soon as possible.
Ideally before sentencing, or immediately upon arrival at your designated prison. Your Unit Team or counselor will help submit your application, but you or your attorney must initiate it.
What Happens After RDAP?
After completing the in-prison program, you’re required to:
- Participate in TDAT (Transitional Drug Abuse Treatment)
- Remain drug-free
- Follow BOP rules
Many participants transition directly into:
- Halfway house (up to 6 months), or
- Home confinement
What Can Disqualify You From RDAP?
- Violating prison rules
- Disruptive behavior during the program
- Lying about your substance use history
- Getting disciplinary infractions before graduation
💡 If you’re removed from RDAP, you lose the sentence reduction — even if you completed most of it.
How We Help at PrisonLawFirm.com
At PrisonLawFirm.com, we:
- Review your PSR to ensure it supports RDAP eligibility
- Help families advocate for RDAP placement post-sentencing
- Guide you through RDAP appeal letters if denied
- Assist with TDAT planning and early-release transitions
Our legal team knows what works — and what gets ignored — in the federal system.
Final Thoughts
RDAP isn’t just about drug treatment — it’s about time.
Time off your sentence.
Time to rebuild your life sooner.
Time to get home.
If you or your loved one is facing federal time and struggling with addiction, RDAP might be the most important program you’ll ever apply for.