Ignition Interlock Program FAQs
An ignition interlock device (IID) or breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID) can prevent a driver from starting a vehicle if the driver’s breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) is above a pre-set fail level. Similar to a breathalyzer, the IID analyzes the breath sample provided by the driver to determine the BrAC. If the BrAC is under the pre-set fail level, the IID will allow the ignition of the vehicle to start the engine. If a valid breath sample is not provided, or if the BrAC is at or above the pre-set fail level, the ignition will be disabled thus preventing the engine from being started.
Individuals will install for a variety of reasons. To satisfy a court ordered requirement, ie Probation or to retain their driving privileges as part of an administrative licensing requirement. Other reasons to have an IID are in child custody and family visitation issues when alcohol is a factor, family violence, plea bargain or deferred prosecution program, work related compliance or voluntarily.
In an effort to reduce recidivism (repeat offenses), while allowing a customer to retain their driving privileges, an ignition interlock restriction can be imposed which would require the use of an IID on any vehicle operated by the customer for the duration of the restriction.
The frequency of monitoring is usually once per month.
All IIDs must conform to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) standards as set forth in the Model Specifications for BAIIDs in the Federal Register, and any other state specific requirements.
If a customer has difficulty with providing a sufficient amount of breath for a valid sample, the IID can be lowered to the minimum allowable 1.5L of breath, as set forth by NHTSA.
- Once the key has been put into the vehicle’s ignition, and turned on to provide power to the vehicle, the device will be activated.
- The device will prompt the driver to provide a breath sample.
- The driver will attempt to provide a valid breath sample, by blowing into the device as previously instructed.
- If the resultant breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) analyzed in the breath sample is below the pre-set fail level, which is typically .020 but varies by State, the engine can be started. If the BrAC is at or above the pre-set fail level, the violation will cause the ignition to be disabled and the vehicle will not start. The IID will “Lockout” for a short period of time. Once the lockout period has expired, another breath sample can be provided.
- At random times during vehicle operation, the IID will prompt the driver to provide another breath sample (also referred to as a “Retest”). The purpose of the Retest is to deter someone other than driver, or some other form of altered air, from providing the breath sample. If the breath sample for the retest is failed or missed, the IID will log the event, warn the driver and in some cases start up an alarm (e.g. lights flashing, horn honking, etc.) until the ignition is turned off, or a valid breath sample is provided.
Events (initial breath test and subsequent retests) are stored in the IID for future upload or reported in real time. Uploaded reports can then be provided to the appropriate monitoring agency / officer.
Fees are incurred for installation, monitoring, removal and other servicing to the IID. The IID is typically leased to the customer, and all costs will be reviewed at the time of the initial call to schedule installation. Please visit the Affordability Program tab for reduced cost eligibility requirements.
The IID will allow the ignition to be restarted without providing a breath test for several minutes following the engine’s cease of operation. This will allow the driver a sufficient amount of time to quickly restart the engine.
The person, company, or corporation that produces an ignition interlock device and certifies to the division that the manufacturer’s representative and manufacturer’s service providers are qualified to service and provide information on the manufacturer’s state-approved ignition interlock device.
- Installation:
Once the customer has an IID restriction, an appointment is scheduled with a service center for installation of the IID. At the initial installation, the customer will be trained on how to use the device and the applicable program requirements. - Monitoring:
The IID will be monitored regularly so that the IID data can be uploaded, and the device can be calibrated. - Final download:
Last day of your restriction (verify by contacting KDOR-Drivers Solutions) then schedule an appointment with the vendor/manufacturer for final download. During the appointment, request documentation confirming the service center has downloaded the report to KDOR. (The final download process usually takes up to 10 days) - Removal:
Once the order has been issued by KDOR allowing the removal of the IID, the customer should contact the vendor/manufacturer to schedule a removal appointment.
