• 11
  • October
    2011

For California drivers convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), the ignition interlock device is an important part of the process of obtaining back full license privileges.

What Is an Ignition Interlock Device?

The ignition interlock device (IID) is a small device that attaches to the interior of a vehicle. It will not permit the vehicle to start until the driver blows into it. If the device detects alcohol on the driver's breath, the car will not start.

The IID will also check the driver's breath periodically as he or she drives. This is to ensure that the driver is the person who first blew into the device, in addition to checking whether the driver has consumed any alcohol since.

Who Is Eligible for an Ignition Interlock Device?

While some California counties participating in a pilot program (Alameda, Los Angeles, Sacramento and Tulare counties) require all people convicted of DUI to install an IID in their cars, most do not. Using an IID may shorten the time a driver must wait to drive again, however.

Some San Mateo DUI lawyers say that drivers with second or third DUI convictions may be able to shorten their license suspension/revocation period by using an IID. Their last DUI must have occurred July 1, 2010, or later, and they must not have been using drugs at the time.

To obtain a restricted license, a driver must have completed a year of license suspension. The driver must meet other requirements, including properly installing an IID, complying with a drinking driver program and satisfying auto insurance conditions.

Who Can Install and Maintain an Ignition Interlock Device?

The IID must be installed by an authorized installer and the driver will have to show proof of installation to the court.

The installer must recalibrate the IID every 60 days. The installer will also check to see whether the device has been tampered with. If it has, the installer will notify the California Department of Motor Vehicles. The installer will also notify the DMV if the driver fails at least three times to comply with regulations.

Although the requirements for IIDs can seem rigorous, they may allow drivers convicted of California DUI to resume driving. It is important to comply with the regulations to maintain the privilege to drive.

Source: http://dmv.ca.gov/portal/home/dmv.htm