A drowsy driver detection system (10) for an automobile (12) is coupled to a service center (16) through a communication system (14). A drowsy driver sensor (30) coupled to a controller (32) and a communication device (60) is used to determine the drowsiness of a vehicle operator by monitoring actions of the vehicle operator. When it is determined by the controller (32) that a vehicle operator is drowsy, controller (32) initiates communication device (60) to communicate a communication signal to service center (16). A response signal is generated by the service center (16) to the vehicle operator through communication device (60) to alert the driver and direct the driver to a rest area.