JUPITER ISLAND, Fla. (CBS12) — A Martin County judge on Wednesday granted a motion allowing Eldrick “Tiger” Woods to travel out of the country while facing misdemeanor charges related to a driving under the influence arrest.
County Judge Darren Steele approved the request during a 2 p.m. court hearing, signing an order that permits Woods to leave the United States to enter comprehensive inpatient treatment at an overseas facility. The State of Florida did not oppose the request, according to court records.
Woods was arrested on March 27 on charges of misdemeanor DUI and refusal to submit to urine testing, and pills were found in his pocket. He later posted $1,150 in bond. While no formal travel restriction had been imposed, Woods’ defense team sought court approval in what attorneys described as an effort toward “complete ethical transparency.”
March 27, 2026 – Professional golfer Tiger Woods was arrested on suspicion of a DUI following a two-vehicle crash involving a pickup truck and a Land Rover on Jupiter Island on Friday. (MCSO, WPEC)
In the motion, defense attorney Douglas Duncan cited recommendations from Woods’ treating physician, stating the out-of-country facility was medically necessary due to Woods’ “complex clinical presentation” and concerns that ongoing public scrutiny in the United States had compromised his ability to receive effective treatment.
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The filing argues that continued exposure could interfere with care and cause setbacks, while the selected treatment center would offer continuous monitoring and a highly controlled environment.
Court minutes indicate the state deferred to the court’s discretion, and Judge Steele granted the motion.
The order was signed and entered into the record on Wednesday afternoon. Woods, a Martin County resident who owns property and businesses in the area, has waived his presence at certain preliminary court proceedings and has agreed to return for future hearings as ordered.
This order was signed the day after Woods announced he was stepping away from golf.
No further court dates were immediately announced following the ruling.
