If you’ve been arrested for an alcohol-related driving violation, there’s a chance that you may have the option to pursue an ignition interlock device in order to maintain your driving privileges. Below, we take a closer look at the eligibility requirements for an ignition interlock device in Minnesota, and when they are available after a DUI arrest.
Getting An Ignition Interlock
An ignition interlock device works by only allowing you to start your car after you’ve proven that you are under the legal driving limit. You’ll be asked to blow into the device prior to starting your car’s engine, and if your BAC is below 0.08 or another lower threshold set forth by the court, your car will start and you can drive to your destination.
Ignition interlock devices are an option after some DUI arrests. If you get one installed, you can usually begin driving much sooner than if you decide to forgo the device and take a standard suspension. Here’s a closer look at the types of violations that would allow a person to install an ignition interlock, and your other driving options.
First DUI with a BAC under 0.16
- You can drive immediately after the conviction so long as you install an ignition interlock device.
- You can wait 15 days from conviction and then apply for a limited license that will allow you to drive to work, school, court or a support group meeting up to six days or 60 hours a week.
- You can wait 90 days and then have your full driving privileges reinstated (180 days if under 21 years old).
First DUI with BAC over 0.16
- You can drive immediately after the conviction so long as you install an ignition interlock device.
- You can wait one year and then have your full driving privileges reinstated.
First DUI with Breathalyzer Test Refusal
- You can drive immediately after the conviction so long as you install an ignition interlock device.
- You can wait 15 days from conviction and then apply for a limited license that will allow you to drive to work, school, court or a support group meeting up to six days or 60 hours a week.
- You can wait one year and then have your full driving privileges reinstated.
Second DUI in 10 Years or Third on Record, BAC under 0.16
- You can drive immediately after the conviction so long as you install an ignition interlock device.
- You can wait one year and then have your full driving privileges reinstated.
Second DUI in 10 Years or Third on Record, BAc over 0.16 or Test Refusal
- You can drive immediately after the conviction so long as you install an ignition interlock device.
- You can wait two years and then have your full driving privileges reinstated.
Three DUIs or More Within 10 Years
- Mandatory ignition interlock for entire revocation period, which is a minimum of three years.
- First year will be a limited license (school, work, court, etc) even with the ignition interlock.
- Full driving privileges with ignition interlock reinstated after one year.
- Any failed tests require the person to start over with the limited license.
