Get an Interlock Ignition Device
Do you need an ignition interlock device (IID)? Call now to speak to a specialized ignition interlock expert and get pricing, installation information, and more.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a breathalyzer device that measures the amount of alcohol in the user’s breath. Installing one in a car is a common requirement following a drunk driving offense (DUI, DWI, DUI, OWI, or OVI).
Commonly known as an in-car breathalyzer device, an IID prevents a driver from starting a vehicle until a breath alcohol test is taken. It has a mouthpiece that the driver must blow into before being able to start the car. The driver will be able to immediately start the car with a clean breath sample.
These easy to use devices offer a one-button activation and simple blowing process that ensure a user friendly experience.
An ignition interlock device meets legal requirements and court orders. Talk with a specialist and get all the information to ensure you get the in-car breathalyzer/IID you need.
An ignition interlock device can cost just a few dollars a day. Learn about various payment plans and methods to install and use the device on your car.
Learn About Ignition Interlock Devices
Get up to speed on IIDs with the information below:
An IID is about the size of a cell phone and wired to your vehicle’s ignition. After installation, the IID requires you to provide a breath sample before the engine will start. If the IID detects alcohol on your breath, the engine will not start. As you drive, you are periodically required to provide breath samples to ensure the continued absence of alcohol in your system.
Can IIDs Prevent Drunk Driving?
Yes. The International Council on Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety maintains that IIDs, when combined with a comprehensive monitoring and service program, lead to a 40–95 percent reduction in the rate of repeat drunk driving offenses among offenders as long as the IID remains on the vehicle.
How Do I Know If I Need to Install an IID?
A court may order you to install an IID and provide you with information about their IID requirements. Additionally, certain laws require driving under the influence (DUI) offenders to install an IID. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will send you a suspension or revocation letter that will provide you with information about regaining your driving privilege. These letters may include information about mandatory IID installation, depending on which DUI law applies to you.
How Do I Install an IID?
Authorized IID manufacturers can provide a list of facilities and more information about installing an IID in your vehicle. Prior to installation, ensure the installer has a valid license issued by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) or Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS), which are part of the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA).
Installation and Monitoring Fees
IID installers are required to offer reduced fees for IIDs to participants whose income level falls within the federal poverty level guidelines. Documents used to verify your income could include:
- Your previous year’s federal income tax return.
- Your previous three months’ weekly or monthly income statements.
- Employment Development Department (EDD) verification of unemployment benefits.
If you are not eligible for reduced fees, you are responsible for the entire cost of the IID program.
What Happens After I Install the IID?
After installing the IID, your installer will provide you with documentation to submit to your state DMV.
IID Calibration and Monitoring
Once installed in your vehicle, the IID must be calibrated and inspected by a certified installer at intervals not to exceed 60 days. Your installer ensures the device is working properly and that no violations, such as failing to take random retests, have been logged. Noncompliance with IID requirements are reported to the court or DMV (whichever applies) and you may have your driving privilege suspended or revoked.
Certain violations require DMV to immediately suspend or revoke your driving privilege if you have an optional IID restriction (for example, an attempt to remove, tamper with, bypass, or failure to comply with any requirement for IID maintenance or calibration).
IID Noncompliance
Depending on the state you live in, your driving privilege could be suspended or revoked if you do not comply with your IID restriction. IID noncompliance may include the following:
- Failing 1 time to service the IID within a certain amount of days.
- Failing 3 or more times with the requirement for maintenance or calibration within a certain amount of days.
- Attempting to bypass the IID.
- Tampering with the IID.
- Attempting to remove the IID.
Your driving privilege can also be suspended or revoked if you remove the IID before your restriction period is over.