What is an ignition interlock device?

As you probably know, North Carolina has some of the country’s toughest penalties for driving while impaired. Upon conviction for a DWI offense, it is not uncommon for a person to lose his or her driving privileges. Not being able to drive legally can hamper virtually all parts of your life, of course.

According to North Carolina law, it is often possible to regain some driving privileges by installing an ignition interlock device on your vehicle. Having one on your car, truck or SUV is not exactly convenient, though. Therefore, you should understand the ins and out of IIDs before you agree to put one in your vehicle.

Part of the ignition system

If you have an IID, your vehicle will not start until you have provided an alcohol-free breath sample. You do so by breathing into a testing device near your dashboard. In addition to breathing into the IID before starting your car, you also must continue to breathe into it periodically during your trip. This ensures you are not drinking while driving.

An expense for drivers

As you might suspect, the state does not cover the costs of your IID. Indeed, as a DWI offender, you have the responsibility to pay for all associated expenses. These include the cost of the device and its installation, regular calibrations and monitoring. While you may appreciate being able to drive again, the monthly expenses that come with an IID can be hard on anyone’s budget.

Ultimately, even if you are itching to get some of your driving privileges back, it is critical both to understand and to comply with all of your obligations under the IID program.