ALCOLOCK is a state-certified vendor of ignition interlock devices in the state of Ohio. We have met rigorous standards so that we may help Ohioans convicted of OVI (operating a vehicle under the influence) complete their restricted driving programs. Our ignition interlock devices exceed the NHTSA requirements, and we are ISO 9001 certified, as well.
From Euclid to Westerville to Martins Ferry, we have multiple ignition interlock device installation locations in Ohio. check out the listings for the location nearest you.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device?
Simply put, an ignition interlock device is an in-car breathalyzer that is hooked into your vehicle’s starter. Blow into the device and pass the test, and you can start your vehicle like you would normally. Fail the test (the device detects .025 BAC or higher) and the device prevents you from starting the car. In both situations, the device records when you took the test and what the results were. Those results are uploaded once a month to the courts.
You must blow into the device each time you wish to start your vehicle, as well as at random intervals while you are driving. The device will give you several minutes warning before a rolling retest is required, so you will have time to pull over and complete the test safely. If you fail a rolling retest, the device WILL NOT SHUT DOWN YOUR ENGINE. That would be a massive safety issue if you chose to take the test while your vehicle was in moton.
Ohio Ignition Interlock Device Law
In 2016, Ohio lawmakers passed a law giving first time drunk driving offenders an incentive to voluntarily install an ignition interlock device (IID) on their vehicles. Installing the IID is voluntary after a first and second OVI, but is mandatory mandatory after your third or subsequent offense.
If this is your first OVI and you voluntarily install an IID, you can eliminate jail time, shorten the license suspension period, and you have unlimited driving privileges. You would have to apply for a restricted license, and once the IID was installed, you would be issued a restricted license that indicates you may only drive a vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device. The court would determine how long you need to have the ignition interlock device installed.
Most participants in the new ignition interlock device program agree that the modest monthly expense of the ignition interlock device is worth the unlimited driving privileges.
Program Violations
Of course, the program comes with certain rules. You must blow into the device any time you wish to start the car, and you must submit to rolling retests as required. You must also bring your vehicle into the service center for regular maintenance, and to allow the technician to upload the data the device has recorded.
Any violation of the ignition interlock program is reported to the courts, and can result in the length of your suspension being increased, your removal from the program, as well as possible criminal penalties, depending on your circumstances. At a minimum, you can be required to wear a device that provides remote, continuous alcohol monitoring to the courts.
Program violations include:
- Blowing .025 or more on a startup test or rolling retest (failing the test)
- Skipping a rolling retest
- Continuing to drive after failing a rolling retest
- Tampering with or trying to remove the device
- Failing to bring your vehicle in for regular service visits
But complying with the program rules and regulations gets your life back to normal much sooner than otherwise.
ALCOLOCK Ignition Interlock Installation Locations in Ohio
ALCOLOCK is a state-certified installer of ignition interlock devices, and we have numerous ignition interlock installation locations in Ohio. Installation of your Ignition interlock device(s) is relatively quick and easy. Keep in mind you’ll need to have someone drive you and your vehicle to the ALCOLOCK service location where you scheduled your appointment. You’ll be able to drive the vehicle wherever you need to go after your appointment.
At your installation appointment, your technician will install the device and calibrate the handheld device to you and anyone else who may be driving your car. Your technician will train you in how to use the device properly, and go over the rules and regulations of your restricted driving program. Before you leave, you will also make your first monthly service appointment.
To schedule your ignition interlock device installation, you can call the service center nearest you directly, or you can call us at 866-700-9300. For general questions, or to schedule your installation online, you can also use our contact form, and someone will get back to you shortly.