What is ignition interlock?
An ignition interlock is a sophisticated system that tests for alcohol on a driver’s breath. It is a device that requires a vehicle operator to blow into a small handheld alcohol sensor unit that is attached to a vehicle’s dashboard. The car cannot be started if a BAC is above a preset level (usually .02 to .04 BAC). Alcohol safety interlocks that meet the standards issued by NHTSA not only require a test to start the engine, but also require a test every few minutes while driving. Called the “rolling or running retest,” it prevents a friend from starting the car and then allowing an impaired driver to take over the wheel. With modern safeguards, alcohol safety interlocks are extremely difficult to circumvent when properly installed and monitored every 30 to 60 days. When used by the courts or state motor vehicle departments in conjunction with a monitoring, reporting, and support program, the ignition interlock system provides DWI offenders with an alternative to full license suspensi
