This paper presents the results of a review of the assumptions and premises underlying currently operating youth DWI prevention programs. Although some innovation was evident in the programs studied, the conceptual underpinnings of most programs appeared to be quite similar to those that have guided prevention efforts over the past two decades. In general, socialpsychological and sociological theory, or available models of behavior change are not widely used or articulated, and a number of gaps in prevention program theory were revealed in the programs reviewed. The data suggest the need for more basic research in DWI prevention and the application of this research in future program planning.