Can You Get Off Interlock Early? Here is Everything You Need to Know

If you have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed in your vehicle, you are likely wondering, “Can you get off interlock early?” The short answer is that in the vast majority of cases, you cannot. Currently, each state has some sort of ignition interlock law in place. There are ways, however, to ensure that the time you must use an ignition interlock passes without incident.

All 50 states and Washington D.C. operate ignition interlock programs, and ignition interlock laws determine the length of time you must keep the device installed. This length can vary depending on state law, your specific circumstances, or a court order. Early removal is the exception, not the rule, and is only possible in a few states under very specific circumstances. The terms ‘ignition interlock early’ and ‘interlock removed early’ are commonly used to describe the process of seeking or obtaining early removal, but the specifics depend on the law in your state.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of early interlock removal, including which states may allow it, the typical eligibility requirements, and the steps you would need to take to petition for an early end to your interlock program.

States That May Allow Early Interlock Removal

While most states require you to complete the full term of your interlock program, a few offer the possibility of early removal for certain offenders who demonstrate perfect compliance. Early removal is typically only available for a first-time offense, and eligibility often depends on the type and severity of the offense. These programs are not automatic and require a formal request and approval process.

It is important to note that even in these states, early removal is not guaranteed. Drivers must have the interlock installed for a minimum required period before being considered for early removal. Additionally, early removal may only be granted if all restrictions on the driver’s license have been satisfied and the driver is eligible for an unrestricted license. The decision is at the discretion of the court or the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and is typically only granted to those with a flawless record.

Can I Get an Interlock Installed on Just One Vehicle If I Own and Use Multiple Vehicles?

No. During the period in which your restricted driving privileges are in effect, you’re responsible for driving exclusively in vehicles equipped with an interlock device. (Note that an interlock device can be installed on vehicles such as motorcycles).

If you’re caught driving without the device, you’ll get a fine, risk having your restricted driving privileges revoked entirely, and/or face jail time. Consequences will vary depending on where you live, so check with your lawyer to make sure you get the right information.

What Should I Do to Ensure That I Pass Each Breathalyzer Test?

The ignition interlock measures your breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) at the time you breathe into the device. States currently have a BAC limit for adult drivers aged 21 or older.

Although companies like RoadGuard Interlock offer one of the most efficient and accurate devices on the market, positives may be triggered if a driver gets behind the wheel after using products like mouthwash and cough syrup.

These substances can cause the driver to provide a breath sample with a high alcohol concentration. To ensure that you pass the breathalyzer test, follow these tips:

• Take every breath test that comes up once you get behind the wheel.
• Avoid using mouthwash, cough syrup, or other items that can trigger a false positive.
• Respond immediately to the rolling retest notification. You’ll be given several minutes to pull the vehicle over to a safe place and complete the test.
• To maintain control over the outcome of each breath test, avoid having others drive your vehicle. You’ll be held responsible if they fail the breath tests.

Although having an ignition interlock installed may make you anxious, there are ways to make the process as smooth as possible — and it all starts with choosing the right ignition interlock provider. RoadGuard Interlock, for instance, has an exceptional device that requires just seconds to provide your sample.

The process is quick, accurate, and painless. In addition, we have multiple service centers across the country. So, chances are high that there is an installation location near you.

Eligibility Requirements for Early Interlock Removal

In states that do allow for the possibility of early interlock removal, there are strict eligibility requirements that you must meet. While these vary by state, they generally include:

• First-Time Offender Status: Early removal is almost exclusively available to first-time DUI offenders. The type of offense and the status of your license or any license restrictions may affect eligibility.
• Low Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC): The BAC level at the time of your arrest may be a factor. Higher BAC levels often lead to longer and more stringent interlock requirements.
• Perfect Compliance: You must have a record of perfect compliance with your interlock program. This means no failed breath tests, no skipped rolling retests, no attempts to tamper with the device, and no other program violations. Any violation can result in additional fines, program extensions, or denial of device removal.
• Completion of a Minimum Time Period: You will typically need to complete a minimum portion of your interlock program, often at least six months, before you can petition for early removal. The device removal process can only begin once all program requirements are completed and your driver’s license is eligible for reinstatement.
• Completion of Other Sentencing Requirements: You may also be required to complete other parts of your sentence, such as alcohol education classes, treatment programs, or probation, before being eligible for early removal.

You may be required to present a certificate of completion for alcohol education or treatment programs as proof that you have completed all necessary requirements for license reinstatement and device removal.

The Process for Petitioning for Early Removal

If you believe you meet the eligibility requirements for early interlock removal in your state, you will need to formally petition the court or DMV. Contacting the appropriate authorities and service centers is essential at each step. The process generally involves the following steps:

1. Obtain a Compliance Report: You will need to request a certified compliance report from your ignition interlock provider. This report will serve as evidence of your perfect compliance with the program. You may also need to fill out a form or submit a certificate to the DMV or courts.
2. File a Petition: You will need to file a formal petition with the court that sentenced you or the DMV that oversees your interlock program. You may need to submit supporting documents, such as a letter from the court or a notice of eligibility.
3. Attend a Hearing: In most cases, you will be required to attend a hearing where a judge or DMV official will review your case. A hearing officer may review your case and determine if you are approved for early removal.
4. Receive a Decision: The judge or DMV official will make a final decision on whether to grant your request for early removal. You may receive an official notice or letter confirming approval, and you may need to contact the DMV or courts to schedule device removal.

After these steps, you may need to work with a technician to remove the device and obtain a new driver’s license without the interlock restriction. Contacting the appropriate authorities and service centers throughout the process is crucial to ensure all requirements are met.

The Importance of Compliance

Whether or not you are eligible for early removal, perfect compliance with your interlock program is crucial. Any program violations can result in an extension of your interlock period, or even a complete revocation of your restricted driving privileges. Common violations that can extend your time on the interlock device include:

• Failed breath tests
• Not providing a valid breath sample
• Skipping a rolling retest
• Attempting to tamper with or bypass the device
• Driving a vehicle without an ignition interlock device
• Missing a scheduled service appointment

Repeated violations can lead to jail time, additional fines, or an extended period before the interlock restriction is removed.

To maintain compliance and ensure safety, the installation and use of the device is designed to be as painless as possible. Passing each test and providing a clean breath sample is essential for maintaining your driving privileges and may allow you to have the interlock removed early. Only after all IID requirements are met and the interlock restriction is lifted can the device be removed.

Keeping Your Interlock Pays Off in the Longterm

While the desire to get your ignition interlock device removed early is understandable, it is a possibility for only a small number of offenders in a few states. The best approach is to focus on perfect compliance with your program to ensure that you can have the device removed as soon as you are eligible. If you have questions about your specific situation, it is always best to consult with a qualified legal professional.

About RoadGuard Interlock

Our company has been helping people get back on the road quickly and painlessly for over 25 years. If you’re looking for a trusted, experienced professional ignition interlock provider, contact us today. At RoadGuard Interlock, we proudly serve 34 states including Virginia and Oklahoma. Our streamlined process and qualified technicians make compliance simple and stress-free. You can trust RoadGuard Interlock to provide you with a reliable ignition interlock device when you need one.

*Links to any third-party websites herein are provided for your reference and convenience only. RoadGuard Interlock did not create nor develop and does not own any such third-party websites. RoadGuard Interlock does not endorse nor support the content of, nor any opinions stated in any such third-party website links. RoadGuard Interlock is not responsible for the content of any third-party website or its accuracy or reliability. Nothing contained in this article or in any such third-party website shall be considered legal advice or be deemed to constitute legal advice. For any legal advice concerning a DUI arrest, charge, conviction, or consequences thereof, you should contact an attorney of your choice.