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February 2, 2021

Everyone makes mistakes. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t get on with life when that happens. If you have a DUI license suspension, you may be able to get back on the road by installing an ignition interlock device (IID), also known as an in-car breathalyzer, in your vehicle.

In this post, we reveal what you need to know about a DUI license suspension.

The process of getting your suspended driver’s license reinstated varies from state to state. This is due to the variation in state drunk driving laws and motor vehicle regulations across the country.

What Is an Ignition Interlock Device?

An ignition interlock device (IID) will prevent your vehicle from starting if, upon a test, your breath sample evidences a breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) level which exceeds the threshold limit set on your device.

How Does It Work?

When you start the vehicle, you will have to blow into the mouthpiece connected to the ignition interlock device. If the device measures that your BrAC level is below the specified BrAC level, your car will start.

In addition, the device will also require tests while the vehicle is in operation. These are called “rolling retests.”

It would be best if you pulled to the side of the road to do a rolling retest safely. There’s a time limit on the rolling retest so that you have enough time to get safely to a place where you can perform the test.

Anyone who drives a vehicle with an interlock device must provide a breath sample for testing, even if they are not the owner. If someone else operating your vehicle has a test failure, please contact your monitoring authority for guidance. Images from ignition interlock device cameras can show who is providing the breath sample. The camera will only take a photo of the driver using the ignition interlock device.

Before you use an ignition interlock device to perform a breath test, we recommend avoiding these four actions for at least 15 minutes before taking the test.

  • Eating anything
  • Drinking anything but water
  • Smoking
  • Brushing your teeth or gargling

DUI License Suspension: Here is How an Ignition Interlock Device Help Me?

Depending on the circumstances of your situation, you may be eligible to get your license reinstated after a DUI suspension by installing an ignition interlock device in your car.

Using an ignition interlock device can help you show the monitoring authorities that you’re committed to sobriety. The device keeps a record of your compliance or violations, if any, and the data is downloaded monthly during service appointments and then provided to the monitoring authorities.

RoadGuard Interlock devices can help drivers with DUI license suspensions in five ways:

  • Keeping them safe on the road
  • Making it possible for them to get to work and/or school
  • Making it possible for them to perform the necessary activities of daily living
  • Allowing them to get their suspended driver’s licenses reinstated sooner
  • Helping them maintain their dignity

How Do I Know if I’m Eligible for an Ignition Interlock Device?

Ignition interlock device laws vary from state to state. In some states, the judge may order DUI offenders to install an ignition interlock device in their car. However, in other states, the judge is given broad discretion to mandate such an installation.

If you must install an ignition interlock in your car, the judge presiding over your case will order you to do so.

So, someone with a DUI may get a driver’s license suspension but may be allowed to drive if they install an ignition interlock in their car and get a restricted license. Many factors are considered when the judgment is made for an ignition interlock device. But, what does getting a restricted license mean?

Essentially, it means that you can be restricted as to when and where you drive. For example, you may not be allowed to drive after 10 p.m., and you may be required to stay away from high-traffic areas.

How Can RoadGuard Interlock Help Me After DUI Suspension?

At RoadGuard Interlock, we’re focused on getting you back on the road safely, affordably, and legally. Our ignition interlock devices are discreet and easy to use.

If you have a DUI suspension, our experienced technicians can help get you back on the road with a smooth ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle. Contact us; we are here to help.

For more information, click here and select your state to learn more about getting your license back with a RoadGuard Interlock.

*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 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.