What is the Florida Ignition Interlock Program? The Florida ignition interlock program is a mandate under Section 316.193, Florida Statutes, for an ignition interlock device (IID) to be installed on the vehicle of “certain persons” that are convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI).
Here are the parameters of the IID requirements under the Florida Statutes according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV):
- First Conviction — only if court-ordered
- First Conviction if BAL is 0.15 or above, or minor in the car — at least 6 months
- Second Conviction — at least 1 year
- Second Conviction if BAL is 0.15 or above, or minor in the car — at least 2 years
- Third Conviction — at least 2 years
- Four or more Convictions (Condition of Hardship License) — at least 5 years
In simplest terms, an interlock device is an in-car breathalyzer that prevents a person from starting a car until a breath alcohol test is taken. An ignition interlock device is a proper term for devices sometimes referred to as “in-car breathalyzer” or “car interlock” or “blow and go”.
After you have successfully blown into the device and are driving down the road, it may ask you to pull over and blow into the device to confirm that the driver is still sober. This can be extremely inconvenient.
Can Someone Else Drive Your Car With an Interlock Device On It?
Yes. You can allow other licensed drivers to operate your vehicle with an IID installed. They would have to use the breathalyzer to start the car or truck just like you would.
Ignition interlock device costs will vary by state but on average, the installation cost is between $70 and $150 and an average monthly lease price is $60-$90. Your installation fee is paid directly to a state-certified installer.
Alexander Truluck focuses his practice as a criminal defense attorney in Clearwater, Palm Harbor, Largo, Dunedin and the Tampa Bay area.
For more information, visit our website at http://www.criminallawyerclearwaterflorida.com
or call (727) 799-3550.