Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
Orange County DUI Penalties
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a device that is required to be installed
in the vehicles of those convicted of driving under the influence (DUI). Not everyone who is convicted of DUI will have to have one of these
devices installed. For a first conviction, this is up to the court's
discretion. For subsequent and aggravated offenses, an IID is usually
required. An IID can either be ordered by the court or by the Department
of Motor Vehicles (DMV). These devices are installed for the purpose of
preventing drunk driving. They work just like a breath machine would work;
the main difference is that the machine is connected to the ignition of
the vehicle. If the breath sample given indicates alcohol, then the ignition
will fail to start the vehicle's engine.
IID is more than just a device; it is a program. The length of the IID
program will depend on the nature of your DUI offense. If an individual
fails to successfully complete the IID program, they could face additional
penalties. Ignition interlock is virtually foolproof. In order to prevent
a sober person from blowing into the machine so that an intoxicated driver
can drive the vehicle, the ignition interlock will randomly require the
driver of the vehicle to blow into the machine while it is being driven.
If a breath sample during operation of the vehicle has traces of alcohol,
then the ignition interlock device will begin to sound an alarm which
will require you to pull over your vehicle and turn off the ignition.
IID and Restricted Driver Licenses
For those who have been convicted of their second or subsequent DUI offense,
they may be able to qualify for a hardship or partial reinstatement of
their license upon installation of an ignition interlock device. In order
to qualify, individuals will have had to complete at least one year of
their DUI license suspension. An IID installed by a verified provider
will also be necessary. In order to prove that you have installed the
necessary device, you will have to provide a "Verification of Installation"
DL 920 form. So long as you comply with all the terms and conditions of
the IID, you can keep your restricted driver status until your revocation
period is up. After this point, you will have to apply for a reinstatement
and pay the fee.
To have the ignition interlock device installed, you will have to pay for
the device itself, the installation fee, a calibration and a monitoring
fee. In order to find out the exact cost of the IID program, you will
have to get in touch with your local IID provider as well as the IID manufacturer.
If you cannot afford the IID program but it has been required, then there
is the possibility of alternative payment options. If the court requires
your IID, then the court will monitor your program. The DMV is required
to impose the IID if the court convicts someone for DUI (§ 14601.2
of the California Vehicle Code).
For a first-time DUI, you may or may not have to have the device installed.
For a second DUI conviction, you will not be eligible for a license reinstatement
for 90 days. This will also require proof of enrollment in a DUI program.
If you are a third-time DUI offender, then a reinstatement is only possible
after a six-month revocation as well as proof of enrollment in a DUI program.
To learn more about the ignition interlock device (IID) program and the
role it plays in your DUI case, please don't hesitate to
contact an Orange County DUI lawyer from The Law Office of Bruce C. Bridgman today.