Is It Considered a Probation Violation if You Fail an Ignition Interlock Device Test?

If you’ve been convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), one of the many consequences of your DUI may be that you are on probation. That’s through the court system, while the ignition interlock restricted driving program is through the administrative system (DMV/DOT). While you will want to check with your DUI lawyer and your probation officer for the final word, we would say yes, it is considered a probation violation if you fail an ignition interlock device test.

ALCOLOCK is not a law firm. We are in the business of installing and servicing ignition interlock devices IIDs. But over the years, we have become familiar with some of the many legal requirements in states around the country. In some cases, you may get probation instead of jail time or probation after you have served your time. Probation is a very serious thing, and you want to make sure you don’t violate your probation. In many cases, a probation violation can land you back in court, or even jail.

Your Ignition Interlock Device and Probation

You may be required to install an ignition interlock device by both the DMV and the court system. The DMV/DOT may require it if you wish to get a restricted driver’s license rather than serving your full license suspension period. The judge in your DUI case may make getting an IID a condition of your probation.

If this is the case, in addition to reporting the IID recording information to the DMV/DOT, we will almost certainly be required to report that same information to the court system or your probation officer directly. Depending on your state, and the conditions of your probation, we would be required to report an ignition interlock device test failure immediately.

Ignition Interlock Device Program Violations

Failing an IID breath test is just one of many ignition interlock device program violations. All 50 states have ignition interlock laws, and most agree on what constitutes a program violation. Violations can mean your restricted driving program gets extended, but depending on the conditions of your probation, violations could also mean more community service, alcohol abuse treatment, jail time, and more.

IID violations include:

  • Failing one or more startup tests
  • Failing a rolling retest
  • Continuing to drive after failing a retest
  • Skipping a retest
  • Tampering with the device
  • Attempting to remove the device
  • Trying to get another person to take the breath test for you
  • Failure to pay the costs associated with your ignition interlock device
  • And more, as spelled out in your state paperwork

Getting your life back to normal after a DUI conviction can be tough. By complying with the ignition interlock device program, you keep the DMV happy, and your probation officer happy. Full compliance with the program will help you get your unrestricted driving privileges back in the least amount of time.

Ignition Interlock Device Installation from ALCOLOCK

ALCOLOCK provides fast and affordable ignition interlock device installation at service centers all across the country. If you need to get an IID installed, call the service center most convenient to your home or work, or call ALCOLOCK at (866) 700-9300 to set up your installation appointment. Make sure you have your DMV and court paperwork with you when you call.

The Day of Your IID Installation Appointment

You’ll need to have someone drive you and your car to your ignition interlock device installation appointment. If someone else will be driving the car while you you’re required to have the IID in your vehicle, it would make sense for them to be the person to drive you. We’ll show you and any other driver how to use the device, and explain all of the device notifications. You’ll also get an owner’s manual to keep in your vehicle for the duration of your restricted driving program.

Payment for your installation is required at your appointment.

Service Visits

Before you leave your installation appointment, your technician will schedule your first service visit. All 50 states require regular service visits — usually every 30 days, but your state paperwork will give you specifics. The service visit is when the technician transmits all of the information the device has recorded that month to the DMV and your parole officer. Your IID technician will also make adjustments to the device as needed and then schedule your next appointment. The device will give you reminders of an upcoming appointment.

At ALCOLOCK, our goal is to help you comply with your restricted driving program. We look forward to serving you!

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