Whether you can install an interlock device instead of losing your license depends on your state and the specifics of your case
An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer installed in your vehicle that prevents the engine from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath. In some states and situations, you can request one as an alternative to a full license suspension, or install one to reduce the length of a suspension you would otherwise serve. However, not every state offers this option, and not every DUI or alcohol-related driving offense qualifies. The decision ultimately rests with the court or your state's Department of Motor Vehicles — you cannot straightforward choose an interlock over suspension on your own.
The availability and rules around interlock devices vary significantly by state. Some states make them mandatory for certain offenses. Others allow them only as a condition of a restricted license, meaning you can drive to work or school but nowhere else. A few states do not offer them at all. Your best first step is to contact your state's DMV or speak with a DUI attorney who knows your state's current laws, because the rules change and what was possible last year may not be this year.
Key Takeaways
- Ignition interlock devices are available in most states but not all, and may be able to access depends on your state's laws and the offense you were charged with.
- You typically cannot choose an interlock instead of suspension on your own — you must request it through the court or DMV, and they must approve it.
- Some states require an interlock for all DUI convictions; others allow it only to shorten a suspension or as a condition of a restricted license.
- The device costs money to install and maintain, usually $60 to $150 per month, and you pay for it yourself.
- An interlock does not erase a conviction or restore your full driving privileges — it is a condition that allows limited driving during a suspension period.
How interlock devices work and what they require
An ignition interlock device is wired into your vehicle's ignition system. Before you can start the engine, you blow into the device. If your breath alcohol content is below the state's threshold (usually 0.02 percent), the car starts normally. If it detects alcohol above that level, the engine will not turn over. The device also requires rolling retests — random breath tests while you are driving — to may support you have not consumed alcohol since starting the vehicle.
The device records every test result and sends the data to a monitoring company, which reports to the court or DMV. If you fail a test, miss a scheduled service appointment, or try to tamper with the device, the monitoring company notifies the authorities. This record-keeping is why courts trust interlocks as an alternative to full suspension — they have proof you are complying.
You are responsible for paying all costs associated with the device. Installation typically runs $100 to $200, and monthly monitoring and calibration fees range from $60 to $150 depending on your state and the service provider. If you cannot afford the device, some states have hardship waivers or reduced-fee programs, but you must request them through the court or DMV.
Which states allow interlock devices and under what conditions
Most states now have ignition interlock laws, but the rules differ. Some states require an interlock for all DUI convictions, even first offenses. Others make it optional or allow it only for repeat offenders or high blood alcohol content cases. A handful of states do not have interlock programs at all.
In states that do offer interlocks, they are typically available in one of three ways: as a mandatory condition of conviction, as an option to reduce a suspension period, or as a requirement for a restricted license that lets you drive to work or school during what would otherwise be a full suspension. For example, you might face a six-month suspension, but the court allows you to install an interlock and drive with restrictions for the full six months instead of losing your license entirely.
Because state laws change and new programs are added regularly, you cannot rely on what you heard from a friend or read online from another state. Contact your state's DMV directly or speak with a DUI attorney licensed in your state to learn what options exist for your specific situation.
How to request an interlock device through the court or DMV
If you have been charged with or convicted of a DUI or alcohol-related driving offense, your first step is to find out whether your state offers interlock options. Call your state's DMV and ask whether ignition interlock devices are available for your type of offense. They can tell you whether you are may be able to access and what the process is.
If you are still in the court process (before conviction), ask your attorney or the prosecutor whether the court would consider an interlock as part of a plea agreement or sentencing recommendation. Some courts are more willing to approve interlocks if you request them early and show willingness to comply. If you have already been convicted and received a suspension, contact the DMV to ask whether you can petition to install an interlock and reduce or modify your suspension.
You will likely need to provide proof that you have contacted an interlock service provider and understand the costs and requirements. Some states require you to sign an agreement acknowledging that you understand how the device works and that you will pay for installation and maintenance. The court or DMV will then issue an order allowing the device, and you will schedule installation with an approved provider in your area.
What happens if you fail a test or miss a service appointment
If you blow into the device and it detects alcohol, the result is recorded and reported to the monitoring company. A single failed test does not automatically mean your interlock is removed, but repeated failures or a pattern of failed tests can trigger a violation report to the court or DMV. Depending on your state and the terms of your order, violations can result in an extension of your suspension, criminal charges, or removal of the interlock privilege.
Missing a scheduled service appointment — the device must be calibrated and serviced regularly, usually every 30 days — is also reported as a violation. If you miss an appointment, contact the service provider when ready to reschedule. Some providers will give you a grace period, but do not assume they will. A missed appointment can be treated the same as a failed test.
If you are struggling to keep appointments because of work or transportation, tell the service provider and the court. Some courts will modify the terms to allow you to service the device at a different location or on a different schedule. Ignoring violations or missing appointments will only make your situation worse.
The cost of an interlock device and financial hardship options
The total cost of an ignition interlock device includes installation, monthly monitoring, calibration, and removal. Installation is typically a one-time fee of $100 to $200. Monthly fees for monitoring and calibration range from $60 to $150, depending on your state and provider. If you keep the device for six months, you are looking at $460 to $1,100 total. A year-long interlock can cost $820 to $2,000 or more.
If you cannot afford these costs, ask the court or DMV about hardship waivers or reduced-fee programs. Some states have programs that reduce monthly fees for people with low income, and some service providers offer payment plans. You must request a hardship waiver through the court — it does not happen automatically. Bring documentation of your income and expenses to show financial need.
Do not skip payments or stop servicing the device to save money. Doing so will be reported as a violation and can result in criminal charges or loss of the interlock privilege, leaving you with a full suspension instead.
How an interlock affects your driving privileges and record
An ignition interlock device allows you to drive during what would otherwise be a full license suspension, but it does not restore your full driving privileges. Depending on your state and the court order, you may be restricted to driving to work, school, medical appointments, or court-ordered programs. You cannot drive for pleasure, and you cannot drive anyone else's vehicle unless it also has an interlock installed.
The interlock does not erase your DUI conviction or remove it from your driving record. Once the device is removed and your suspension period ends, the conviction remains on your record. It will still affect your insurance rates, your ability to get certain jobs, and your may be able to access for professional licenses. An interlock is a way to maintain some driving ability during the suspension period — it is not a way to undo the offense.
When your suspension period ends and the court or DMV approves removal of the device, you must schedule a removal appointment with the service provider. They will uninstall it and provide documentation to the court or DMV. At that point, your full driving privileges are restored (assuming no other suspensions or restrictions explore).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install an interlock device on someone else's car?
No. The device must be installed on a vehicle registered to you, and you must be the primary driver. If you need to drive multiple vehicles, each one must have its own interlock device installed. Some courts allow exceptions for work vehicles, but you must request approval in advance.
What if I cannot afford the monthly fees?
Contact the court or DMV and ask about hardship waivers or reduced-fee programs. Bring proof of your income and expenses. Some states and service providers offer payment plans or sliding-scale fees based on income. Do not ignore the fees — unpaid bills can result in violation reports.
Does an interlock device come off my record after I remove it?
No. The interlock device is removed when your suspension period ends, but your DUI conviction stays on your driving record. The length of time it remains varies by state — typically 5 to 10 years for a first offense. You may be able to petition for record expungement after a certain period, but that is a separate legal process.
Can I get an interlock if I have not been convicted yet?
It depends on your state and whether you are still in the court process. Some courts will approve an interlock as part of a plea agreement or sentencing recommendation before conviction. Ask your attorney or the prosecutor whether this is an option in your case.
What happens if I move to a different state while my interlock is active?
You must contact the court or DMV in your original state before moving. Some states allow you to transfer your interlock requirement to another state if that state has reciprocal agreements. Others require you to complete your suspension in the original state. Do not move without permission — doing so can result in additional charges.