Ignition Interlock Devices for Breath Alcohol Tests

Breath alcohol ignition interlock devices are beginning to see widespread use, in many states those convicted of a first-time DUI offense have these devices installed in their vehicle in order to have their driving privileges reinstated. The ignition interlock system requires that the driver perform an alcohol breath test in order for their vehicle to start.

Each state that makes use of the device has its own restrictions regarding the operation of the vehicle while the ignition interlock system is installed. Usually the allowable level of blood alcohol is .02% to .04%. If the user is below the restriction level when performing the test, the vehicle will start for them. However, if the limit is breached the ignition interlock device will keep the car from starting, and the driver will have to wait 30 minutes before they can try again.

The ignition interlock system has a hand held piece that the driver needs to blow into in order to test their alcohol level. They must to perform the breath test for at least 3 seconds for a correct reading. If the driver gives a blood alcohol level reading below the set limit, the device will display a green light and the vehicle will be able to start.

After about 10 minutes or so the breath alcohol ignition interlock device will issue a beeping noise, indicating that another breath test is needed in order for the car to continue to operate. The court can decide on how often the device requires another breath sample, typical time intervals are between 15 and 30 minutes.

The reason for repeated breath test requirements is so that the driver can't have a friend breath into the device to get the car started and then drive off, or any other ways the driver may find around the ignition interlock. So, for example, if the driver had someone else trick the device into starting the car he will be unable to perform the second requested breath test that the device issues, at this point the horn will be set off and the lights with flash in an attempt to warn the driver, as well as other drivers on the road, that the vehicle is going to be disabled.

Those who have been convicted of a DUI offense and had an ignition interlock installed in their car find them to be an annoyance, but that's the point, these devices have been proven to deter future DUI offenses thanks to the hassle, embarrassment and cost that they cause for the driver who has been ordered by the court to have one installed.

Some states may even require a first-time offender to have a breath alcohol ignition interlock device installed in their car for a year or more depending on what the court ultimately decides. The cost of having a breath alcohol ignition interlock device installed in a vehicle for one year is about $1,100. This is because installation of the device costs around $200 and it carries a monthly $75 fee for the leasing of the device.

If you want to know more about which states require the installation of a breath alcohol ignition interlock device for a first time DUI offense study your state's DUI laws and legal requirements.