An ignition interlock device or breath alcohol ignition interlock device (IID and BIID) is a mechanism, like a breathalyzer, installed to a motor vehicle's dashboard. Before the vehicle's motor can be started, the driver first must exhale into the device, if the resultant breath-alcohol concentration analyzed result is greater than the programmed blood alcohol concentration — usually 0.02% or 0.04%, the device prevents the engine from being started.

At random times after the engine has been started, the IID will require another breath sample. The purpose of this is to prevent a friend from breathing into the device, enabling the intoxicated person to get behind the wheel and drive away. If the breath sample isn't provided, or the sample exceeds the ignition interlock's preset blood alcohol level, the device will log the event, warn the driver and then start up an alarm (e.g., lights flashing, horn honking, etc.) until the ignition is turned off, or a clean breath sample has been provided. A common misconception is that interlock devices will simply turn off the engine if alcohol is detected; this would, however, create an unsafe driving situation and expose interlock manufacturers to considerable liability. An interlock device cannot turn off a running vehicle, all that an Interlock device can do is interrupt the starter circuit and prevent the engine from starting.

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% reduction in the rate of repeat drunk driving offenses among offenders as long as the IID remains on the vehicle.

When the court orders use of an IID, you must have one installed by an authorized installer and provide proof of the installation to the court. As of January 1, 2007, DMV must receive proof that a court-ordered IID has been installed on each vehicle owned or operated by you before your driving privilege can be reinstated during your restriction period. The courts have the discretion to order an IID installation for any offender of CVC §14601.2 for a period not to exceed three years.

The court has special forms and procedures to monitor drivers ordered to have the device installed. After the court notifies the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), DMV marks your record so law enforcement officers will be aware of the IID requirement if you are stopped. DMV will also place a restriction on your driver license. If you fail to comply with a court-ordered IID restriction, the court will notify DMV and your driving privilege will be suspended until you comply with the court order.

IID Providers

You may have a DMV-certified IID installed by calling the toll-free number of one of the companies listed. Ask about the prices and the availability of service in your area.

Autosense International
(800) 325-2656

Alco Alert Interlock
(888) 663-9847

Alcohol Countermeasures Systems
(888) 847-3463

Alcohol Detection Systems
(800) 786-7394

Consumers Safety Technology
(877) 777-5020

Guardian Interlock Systems
(800) 499-0994

LifeSafer Interlock Systems
(800) 210-8087

Smart Start
(800) 880-3394



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