An ignition interlock device (IID), aka breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BIID) is a device that requires the testing of a drivers blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to start and continue drive a vehicle. The IID will not allow the car to start if the driver’s BAC concentration is over the programmed limit; which is usually .04 except in cases of multiple DUIs or DUI manslaughter/intoxication assault where the IID may require a .01 BAC or below. The device also requires breath samples at random times while driving to prevent others from taking the test for them.

Will I have to install an ignition interlock device in my car?

It’s unlikely if this is your first offense, but likely if this is your second or greater. Some states have it as possibility for a first offense only if you ,for example, caused injury or property damage, some states such as Arizona, New Mexico, Illinois and Louisiana require it for a first time offense in order to avoid license suspension and other states do not have it as a possibility for a first time offense; as I stated above it is likely you will have to install a IID if you are convicted of DUI 2 or more time. Every state now has it as a possibility for 2 o more offenses. Other states, such as Florida, are now allowing 4th time offenders to drive again with a IID installed. If you have been accused and not yet convicted of DUI/DWI I would recommend you talk to a drunk driving lawyer in your state about your situation.

Do I have to pay to have one installed?

Yes. Installation and other charges can be quite expensive actually. Installation commonly costs around $200 and you will be required to pay a monthly fee of around $100, for any maintenance expenses and calibration fees every 1-2 months of $50 or more. Failure to have the device calibrated at it’s scheduled time can be considered a violation of probation. In some states DUI fees can be applied to the expenses of the IID and in some states they cannot.