In Minnesota, Ignition Interlock is mandatory device system which allows alcohol offenders to regain their driving privileges. As of 2011, it became a required mandate for all DWI offenders with a BAC of 0.16 and above. The Interlock Ignition device requires the driver to give a breath test for alcohol before starting the car. It also requires drivers to perform rolling retests at various intervals while driving.
Installation of the Interlock Ignition device varies, as there are multiple participating vendors offering such systems in Minnesota:
1. LifeSafer Interlock, Inc.
2. 1A Smart Start
3. B.E.S.T. Labs, Inc.
4. Draeger Safety Diagnostics
5. Consumer Safety Technology, Inc.
6. Guardian Interlock.
Prices vary by company, and the offending driver is responsible for contracting their own company to install and manage the device. According to one vendor, the device costs between $60 and $125 per month and some vendors may charge additional fees for installation and removal of the device.
All vendors have been certified by the Minnesota DPS as offering devices that meet federal guidelines for ignition interlock devices. Participants are allowed to switch vendors at any time during the program.
The device is equipped with a camera which is monitored by the ignition interlock company, so as to prevent driver and breath-test fraud.
Before a driver is allowed to drive once their vehicle is equipped with an ignition interlock system, they must first have been granted a limited or restricted license by the DMV.
The device is installed under the dash and the hood of the car, connected to the wiring. It will not damage the vehicle and after completion of the program, the car’s wiring will be restored to its original condition. The device may only be used for the vehicle in which it is installed and driving privileges do not extend to other cars that the driver may operate.
The process of acquiring an ignition interlock system is fairly simple, but many offending drivers find that consulting with their MN criminal defense attorney helps to simplify and speed up the process.
You can read more about the fundamentals of the ignition interlock program here, on the Minnesota DPS website.
