What is an Interlock Device?

A comprehensive guide to Ignition Interlock Devices.

5 Tailgating Rules and Alcohol Laws to Remember

It’s an American tradition to tailgate before major sporting events, like NFL games, college homecomings, and even high school games in some areas. People love creatively setting up their tailgate spot with food, games like cornhole, and of course, beer.

BAC vs. BrAC: What's the Difference?

Many people may be familiar with the concept and terminology of blood alcohol content, but when it comes to differentiating BAC from Breath Alcohol Content (BrAC) most people do not know the difference.

BAIID FAQs: Device Cost, Installation, Violations, & More

Many states require a BAIID following a drunk driving offense. There are many providers who can install state-approved interlock devices.

Car Breathalyzer Installation: Process, Installers, & More

If you have been mandated to install an interlock following a DUI incident, you will need to visit a state-approved interlock provider. State-approved providers meet all state criteria and also work with state monitoring authorities.

Does an Interlock Device Require a Camera?

Many states require offenders arrested for drunk driving to install an ignition interlock device if they wish to regain driving privileges. State laws around DUI, OUI, DWI, OWI vary, as each state determines their own laws and penalties around drunk driving.

DUI Jail Time

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense that can lead to jail time. This comprehensive guide delves into various aspects of DUI convictions and the likelihood of incarceration.

Chances of Jail Time on a First DUI

For first-time DUI offenders, jail time is possible but not always likely. The potential jail time can be up to 6 months, with certain circumstances leading to longer sentences, depending on the case, state and severity of the offense.

Factors Influencing Jail Time on a DUI

Several factors can increase the severity of the punishment, including a high blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or involvement in an accident causing injury. In some states, no jail time is mandatory for first offenses, while others have more stringent rules.

Jail Time for Second DUI Offense

A second DUI within 10 years of the first typically results in mandatory jail time, with minimum sentences starting at 10 days and potentially extending to a year. Each state has its own laws regarding jail time on second DUI offenses. In California, for instance, a second DUI within 10 years leads to a minimum of four days in jail.

General Jail Time Guidelines for DUI

Navigating the jail time guidelines for DUI offenses involves understanding the nuances between misdemeanor and felony charges, as well as how state laws and offense history play a role in sentencing. Here's a breakdown:

Misdemeanor vs. Felony: Most DUI offenses are classified as misdemeanors, with potential jail time ranging from six months to a year. However, aggravating factors like repeat offenses, high blood alcohol concentration (BAC), or incidents involving injury or death can escalate these charges to felony level, carrying more severe penalties.
State-Specific Maximum Jail Times: The jail time for DUI offenses varies across states. For instance, in New Jersey, the maximum jail time for a first DWI offense is limited to 30 days.
Jail Time Implications of DUI Warrants: The duration of jail time for a DUI warrant depends on the state's laws and the individual's offense history. While first-time offenders usually face up to six months in jail, repeat offenders may encounter longer sentences, up to 364 days.

In summary, while DUI laws share some common ground across the country, the specifics can differ significantly. Whether a DUI is considered a misdemeanor or felony, and the resulting jail time, hinges on various factors including the state's unique laws and the offender's past record.

Hardship License vs. Restricted License

A typical driver’s license places no limitations on the driver as far as when and where they can drive. However, hardship and restricted licenses do have specific limitations. Learn more about these types of licenses and how they are different.

How to Check Your Driver's License Status

Understanding the status of your driver's license is crucial, especially in situations where you may have received a ticket, been arrested, or completed a license suspension period. Driving with a suspended license can lead to serious legal consequences, including jail time or hefty fines. Let's explore how you can easily check your driver's license status to stay informed and on the right side of the law.

Step-by-Step on how to Check Your Driver's License Status Online

The most straightforward method to check your license status is online. Here’s how you can do it:

Visit the DMV Website: Go to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website. Choose the state where your license was issued.
Identity Verification: You’ll need to verify your identity to access your license status information. This process varies by state but generally involves providing personal information.
View Your License Status: Once verified, you can see whether your license is suspended or valid.

Official Document Requirement

When checking the status of your driver's license, especially for official purposes, you may need to provide certain documents. The exact requirements can vary by state, but typically include:

Photo Identification: Often, your driver's license itself serves as sufficient photo identification. If your license is unavailable, other forms of photo ID may be accepted.
Driving Record Application: Many states require you to complete an application form to access your driving record. This form usually requests basic personal information and details about your license.
Payment of Fees: There is generally a fee associated with obtaining your driving record. This fee varies by state and may also depend on the method of application (online, in-person, mail, etc.).

In-Person Inquiry

You can also check your driver's license status in person:

Visit Local DMV Office: Go to your nearest DMV office.
File Request Form: Complete the necessary form, like the INF 1125 in California, providing personal details and your license number.
Pay a Fee: A small fee is typically charged for the official record.

Mail-In Request

Another option is to request your license status via mail:

Fill Out Request Form: Complete a form like the INF 1125, including your personal information and driver's license number.
Mail to DMV: Send the form along with a fee to your state's DMV headquarters.

Importance of Knowing Your License Status

It's crucial to regularly check your driver's license status to ensure compliance with state driving laws and maintain road safety. This responsible practice helps avoid penalties and confirms your eligibility to drive, contributing to safer roads for everyone. Whether online, in-person, or via mail, staying informed about your driving privileges is vital to avoid the severe consequences of driving with a suspended license.

Ignition Interlock Device Myths vs. Facts

Installing an ignition interlock device can be confusing, especially if you’re not familiar with the devices and how they work. We’re here to debunk some of the most common myths and misconceptions people have around IIDs and how they work, so you can install your device with peace of mind.

Ignition Interlock Device Types & Features Required By State

Ignition interlock devices are typically mandated following a drunk driving offense (DUI, OUI, DWI, or OWI). The devices allow offenders to drive, but require them to take a breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) test and pass before they can start their vehicle.

Ignition Interlock Tips for Cold Weather

Your interlock device gives you the freedom to get where you need to go safely. While interlock devices are built to withstand a lot of weather fluctuations, extreme heat and cold can cause some challenges. Luckily, we have many suggestions for things you can do to protect your device from extreme cold.

Ignition Interlock Tips: 5 Things You Should Avoid

When you need an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle, the first thing you need to do is learn how to use the device. And you also need to understand things you shouldn’t do. We've compiled a list of the top five steps to practice when you have a car breathalyzer to keep things running smoothly.

How to Handle a Car Repair with an Interlock Device

Every vehicle needs routine maintenance and the occasional repair — even those vehicles with an ignition interlock device installed. In most cases, you’ll have your ignition interlock device installed for six months or more, so it’s likely you’ll need regular maintenance like an oil change during your interlock term. It’s also possible you’ll need a different kind of repair, or a part will need replacing.

How to Use a Car Breathalyzer

An ignition interlock device is a big change. Once your device is installed, you will be unable to start your vehicle without taking and passing a breath alcohol content (BrAC) test. The way you test and operate the ignition interlock device or car breathalyzer does vary depending on which interlock provider you choose, but the testing requirements will be similar as these are mandated by the state.

Transfer Interlock Device to a New Car

Whether you’re installing for the first time in a newly purchased vehicle or switching from one vehicle to another, this blog should help you learn what to expect.

What Ignition Interlock Devices Have GPS Tracking?

Ignition interlock devices are very effective tools in preventing drunk driving. Each year, the devices stop hundreds of thousands of drivers during attempts to drive with alcohol in their system. The devices require the driver to take a Breath Alcohol Content (BrAC) test and pass before they can start their car. Many states use these devices as a penalty for drunk driving in an effort to make roads safer, and prevent relapse.

How to Lower BAC Fast: Myths and Tips

There are a lot of myths floating around about how you can sober up or trick a breathalyzer after a night of drinking. They might include eating a certain food, sucking on a penny, or drinking a pot of coffee. However, these myths are not actually true, and doing these things won’t miraculously sober you up.

Ignition Interlock Device Violations & Penalties

Every interlock on the market requires users to provide a breath alcohol content (BrAC) sample in order to start their vehicle. Though it varies by state, the typical allowable limit is around .02 percent.

Car Breathalyzer Costs: Installation, Monthly Fee, & More

Drunk driving is a very costly offense. There are expenses including financial penalties, increased insurance costs, lost wages, and interlock costs. We will break down the various car breathalyzer costs specifically.

What Happens During a Random Interlock Retest?

In order to ensure that the driver remains sober, ignition interlock devices are programmed to request random retests during most trips.

How Does Alcohol Affect Driving?

It’s well-known that alcohol affects your judgment the more you drink. It also impacts your fine motor skills, reaction time, and other mental abilities. This is why intoxicated people often make bad decisions they normally would never make. Often, this poor judgment can lead to driving while intoxicated despite the danger.

Best Breathalyzer for Vehicles

When choosing an ignition interlock provider, the first step is to find out what providers are approved in your state. When interlock installation is mandatory, customers must select from a list of approved providers, as the devices must be monitored by the monitoring authority.

Finding a State-Approved Interlock Provider

When an interlock device is court-mandated, you are required to install an IID from a state-approved provider. These providers work with your state’s monitoring authority to keep your data secure while sharing it with the proper channels.

Intoxalock vs. LifeSafer: How They Compare

Ignition interlock devices are used by most states to prevent drunk driving. When an individual is convicted of an alcohol-related driving offense, they must get an ignition interlock device, or IID, installed. Sometimes these devices are referred to as car breathalyzers, or breath alcohol ignition interlock devices (BAIID).

Intoxalock vs. Smart Start: Which Interlock Provider is Best?

In many states, ignition interlock devices are required or mandated by the court system for alcohol-related offenses. People convicted of driving under the influence, or DUI, are often required to have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed for a specific length of time. Some drivers may even choose to get a device installed voluntarily to help maintain sobriety.

Mobile Interlock Installation FAQs

In some states, interlock providers are allowed to offer mobile installation services. This means that the installation technician will come to you at your home or workplace to install your interlock device. In some cases, you may need to visit the installation center for calibration, but other states also offer mobile calibration services.

Portable Breathalyzers: Cost, Accuracy, and More

Ignition interlock devices are often called car breathalyzers. Portable breathalyzers are similar to IIDs, but have one key difference. Portable breathalyzers are wireless, whereas interlock devices are wired directly into the car’s ignition. We will answer all your most frequently asked questions about these unique devices.