Ignition Interlock Device (IID)

Orange County DUI Penalties

An ignition interlock device (IID) is a device that is required to be installed in the vehicles of those convicted of driving under the influence (DUI). Not everyone who is convicted of DUI will have to have one of these devices installed. For a first conviction, this is up to the court's discretion. For subsequent and aggravated offenses, an IID is usually required. An IID can either be ordered by the court or by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). These devices are installed for the purpose of preventing drunk driving. They work just like a breath machine would work; the main difference is that the machine is connected to the ignition of the vehicle. If the breath sample given indicates alcohol, then the ignition will fail to start the vehicle's engine.

IID is more than just a device; it is a program. The length of the IID program will depend on the nature of your DUI offense. If an individual fails to successfully complete the IID program, they could face additional penalties. Ignition interlock is virtually foolproof. In order to prevent a sober person from blowing into the machine so that an intoxicated driver can drive the vehicle, the ignition interlock will randomly require the driver of the vehicle to blow into the machine while it is being driven. If a breath sample during operation of the vehicle has traces of alcohol, then the ignition interlock device will begin to sound an alarm which will require you to pull over your vehicle and turn off the ignition.

IID and Restricted Driver Licenses

For those who have been convicted of their second or subsequent DUI offense, they may be able to qualify for a hardship or partial reinstatement of their license upon installation of an ignition interlock device. In order to qualify, individuals will have had to complete at least one year of their DUI license suspension. An IID installed by a verified provider will also be necessary. In order to prove that you have installed the necessary device, you will have to provide a "Verification of Installation" DL 920 form. So long as you comply with all the terms and conditions of the IID, you can keep your restricted driver status until your revocation period is up. After this point, you will have to apply for a reinstatement and pay the fee.

To have the ignition interlock device installed, you will have to pay for the device itself, the installation fee, a calibration and a monitoring fee. In order to find out the exact cost of the IID program, you will have to get in touch with your local IID provider as well as the IID manufacturer. If you cannot afford the IID program but it has been required, then there is the possibility of alternative payment options. If the court requires your IID, then the court will monitor your program. The DMV is required to impose the IID if the court convicts someone for DUI (§ 14601.2 of the California Vehicle Code).

For a first-time DUI, you may or may not have to have the device installed. For a second DUI conviction, you will not be eligible for a license reinstatement for 90 days. This will also require proof of enrollment in a DUI program. If you are a third-time DUI offender, then a reinstatement is only possible after a six-month revocation as well as proof of enrollment in a DUI program. To learn more about the ignition interlock device (IID) program and the role it plays in your DUI case, please don't hesitate to contact an Orange County DUI lawyer from The Law Office of Bruce C. Bridgman today.