Getting a drunk driving conviction can be expensive and disruptive to your life. It can also be a little embarrassing. If you have to have an ignition interlock device as part of your state’s restricted driving program, you may be worried that people will see the device, and think less of you. So you’re wondering How do I hide my interlock?
Having an ignition interlock device in your vehicle means you are taking responsibility for getting your life back in order and we understand. You’re not alone. According to a Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) report, at any given time, there are tens of thousands of drivers on the road across the country who have an interlock in their vehicle.
An Easy Way to Hide Your Interlock Device
Over the years, people have come up with a clever way to hide an interlock. Before you try this, make sure you have easy access to the interlock device while you’re driving. And you should ensure that the device is able to be fully operational for startup tests and rolling retests. The mouthpiece and camera (if equipped) should not be hampered from being fully operational in any way.
While Your Car is Parked
There are a number of ways to hide an interlock when the car is parked and you don’t need to access the device. This will prevent anyone from walking by from noticing the device.
- Place the device in a shoebox or bag where you can thread the cord (if your device has one) through the bottom of the box or bag. You can store the device in the center console. This will hide it from public view.
- You can also just cover the device and cord with a sweater or jacket, or even a magazine.
Hide or Disguise Your Interlock While It’s In Use
If you’re worried about other drivers, friends, or coworkers seeing you use the device, there is a way:
Get a large paper or plastic drink cup that has been thoroughly cleaned, or never used. Go for the super-size, because the cup needs to be big enough to hold your ignition interlock device without pressing on it. Cut an opening in the bottom of the cup big enough so that you can slide the device and cable inside. Once the device is inside along with enough cable slack, add duct tape to the bottom of the cup to keep the IID securely inside even when you lift the cup. When you lift the cup to blow into the device, it will appear to anyone looking that you are simply drinking from the fast food cup. You can use the cup lid to cover the mouthpiece when your vehicle is parked.
Make sure that if your device is camera-equipped you follow all of the rules. It may mean the mouthpiece and top of the device must be visible when you submit a breath sample.
Get Used to Using Your Device in View of Others
In reality, your device underwent testing to ensure accuracy and reliability without being inside a cup. If the cup hinders your device in any way, we cannot guarantee reliable test results.
The simplest thing is to get used to using your interlock device in the view of others. Most people aren’t even paying attention to you — they have their own stuff going on. And if a stranger sees you blowing into the device, big deal. If a friend or coworker sees you, they probably knew about your DUI/DWI anyway, and won’t think any less of you.
Depending on your state’s ignition interlock laws, you may need to have the device installed for months, or even years, depending on your offense. So get comfortable with your IID. It’s the key to getting your full driving privileges back as quickly as possible.
Schedule Ignition Interlock Device Installation
With ALCOLOCK™, ignition interlock device installation is easy and affordable. We have service locations across the country to serve you. Just call the service center most convenient to you to schedule your IID installation appointment. You can also call ALCOLOCK™ directly at (866) 700-9300 and we will help you get scheduled.
You’ll want to plan on having someone drive you and your vehicle to your appointment. The whole thing will take about an hour. Once the technician installs the interlock device and trains you in how to use it, you will schedule your first service visit. Then, you are free to drive, according to the rules laid out in your restricted driving program.
Service visits are mandated by state law, and will last about 20 minutes. Depending on the state you live in, you will need to come in for regular visits every 30-60 days. Your restricted driving program documents will detail all of that, and your technician can answer most of your questions as well.
We look forward to working with you to get your life back to normal.