Drivers who have to get an ignition interlock put on their car, are responsible for all monthly payments and maintenance costs for installing the device. The DUI IID service provider will detail the precise price information based on your location, including fees, when you register for the program.
The 2023 average lowest price for fees associated with the Ignition Interlock Program are outlined below:
- $139 for installation, that often will include instructions on how to use the device
- $75 monthly monitoring fee
- $49 removal fee at the end of the DUI IID program
- $165 early removal fee (removal by choice or by case outcome in court)
- $99 one-time administrative fee for beginning the car Breathalyzer interlock program
The total costs are paid in full to the ignition interlock provider. Since the law in every jurisdiction is frequently changing, the device affordability is also subject to change and be cheaper or higher based upon a driver’s location and specific case details.
It is important to note that payment is due to the interlock provider in advance of servicing the car Breathalyzer machine. Additional fees may be assessed depending on what your service requirements are. For the most accurate list of the lowest DUI IID fees and available payment options for your own case and location, contact FightDUICharges anytime at your convenience.
How Much Does the Cheapest Ignition Interlock Device Cost Near Me for a First DUI Charge Conviction February 2023?
The cost of an ignition interlock device can vary depending on the state you live in, the local IID company that provides the device, and the length of time you are required to have the device installed. Some states have set a maximum fee that companies are allowed to charge for installation, rental, and removal of the device, while others do not regulate the cost. However, in general, the cost of an ignition interlock device can still be quite expensive even if it’s considered as “low-cost” option.
To find the cheapest ignition interlock device near you for a first DUI, you can start by searching online for providers in your area and comparing their prices. For example in February 2023, prices can range from $50 to $150 for installation, $50 to $100 for monthly rental fee and $50 to $100 for removal.
You can also check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Department of Transportation (DOT) to see if they have a list of approved providers and their associated costs. However, it’s important to note that the cheapest option may not necessarily be the best option for you. It’s important to research the company and read reviews, ask about their experience, and the level of customer service they offer.
A low-cost ignition interlock device may have a lower installation and monthly rental fee, but it could still add up to several hundred dollars over the course of the required usage period. Additionally, some local low-cost interlock providers may charge additional fees for services such as recalibration or replacement of the device.
It’s also important to note that, even if the cost of the ignition interlock device is lower, the overall cost of a DUI conviction can still be substantial, including fines, court costs, and increased car insurance rates. It’s important to consider the total cost of a recent DUI conviction and whether it’s worth fighting the interlock requirement or exploring other options for an interlock exemption.
By getting a free DUI arrest review with one of our top DUI attorneys in your area, you may be able to avoid the interlock requirement or find ways to make it more affordable. An attorney will immediately review the circumstances of your arrest and evidence against you, looking for any errors or violations of your rights that could lead to the charges being dropped or reduced. With their knowledge and experience, you can trust that they will do everything in their power to give you the best possible outcome, including fighting the interlock requirement.
Don’t let the cost of an ignition interlock device affect your life any longer. By getting a free DUI arrest review online with one of our top DUI attorneys, you may be able to avoid the interlock installation altogether with the free expert legal advice provided.
Overview of How The DUI IID Program Works
A driver will be subject to the DUI Ignition Interlock Device Program in order to get a license back if you are:
- convicted of a first offense DUI or DWI for operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol;
- driving with a BAC above 0.08 legal limit;
- refusing to comply with a demand for alcohol or drug testing; and
- driving intoxicated by drugs, prescription medication, or a combination of a drug and alcohol
If a person wishes to legally drive after a DUI with a reinstated driver’s license, you must have an ignition interlock device installed first. You will need to register with an approved local interlock service provider to have the device installed. The IID must also be inspected regularly by the service provider.
Eligible drivers convicted for a 2023 first-time alcohol related DUI charge offense, may also be able to reduce the length of time for their license suspension, upon successful completion of the program. Based upon feedback and reviews we receive, we may also be able to assist drivers locate a low cost ignition interlock device nearest your location.
How the Device Works
An ignition interlock device is an in-car alcohol breath testing machine that prevents a vehicle from starting if it detects a blood alcohol concentration ( BAC ) over a pre-set limit of 0.02. The device is installed inside the vehicle, closest to the driver’s seat, and is electronically connected to the engine’s ignition system.
Prior to you starting the vehicle, you will first need to blow into the device. If a driver’s BAC is over the pre-set .02 limit, The vehicle’s engine is rendered unable to start.
Once a vehicle is successfully started after blowing, the interlock device will ask the driver to provide breath samples at random pre-set times while the engine is running. If the person operating does not provide a breath sample, or if the BAC exceeds the limit, the IID will issue a warning, record the event and activate specific alarm systems (e.g. lights flashing, horn honking) until the ignition is turned off.
Properly following the machine rules to avoid IID violation fees, is one of the simplest ways how to keep ignition interlock device costs low and affordable as possible.
Ignition Interlock Condition
If you have been convicted of a DUI or DWI charge, you will be eligible to get your driver’s license back after you complete all the IID program. Additionally, this will include serving out any remainder of a license suspension the court may have ordered, paying the reinstatement fee or administrative monetary penalty at the DMV.
A person will have an ignition interlock put in any vehicle they will be driving, including for work, as a condition of a temporary driver’s license for a period of:
- First-time DUI offenders: minimum of 6 months to 1 year on average
- Second offense: minimum of 2 to 3 years
- Third or more offenders: minimum of 3 years length of time, and possibly lose a driver’s license for life in some cases.
The DUI IID program will not typically apply to convicted 4th time drunk or drugged driving offenders, since their license will likely never be reinstated in most states.
Penalties That Can Affect the Ignition Interlock Cost and Affordability
When a driver is ordered to have an ignition interlock device installed by a service provider nearest their location, you are also required to sign a participant agreement acknowledging the terms and conditions of the installation. Please note that further penalties may be applied from violating a participant agreement with the service provider. Please contact us or your local service provider to be aware of the specific information regarding your terms and conditions.
If you operate a vehicle in violation of an ignition interlock license rules, your vehicle can be impounded, and a driver’s license will likely be suspended for the maximum amount of time for the DUI charge. You will also be subject to further legal consequences and monetary penalties at the discretion of the court.
If an individual drives while a license is suspended for a DUI or DWI offense conviction, the average length of time to expect a vehicle will be impounded for is:
- 30 days for a first offense
- 60 to 90 days for a second-time impoundment
- 90 days or longer for a third or more impounding
A convicted DUI offender may also be charged with a further criminal offenses under the current laws in every state, if there are interlock problems caused on purpose.
Drivers convicted of driving without an ignition interlock or for tampering with the device will face fines under the law ranging from:
- $300 – $10,000 for commercial vehicles that require a CDL license
- $250 – $1,000 f.or other standard motor vehicles
Other vehicle owners who knowingly let another person with an ignition interlock condition to drive their vehicle, may also be criminally charged under state and local laws in court.
An ignition interlock is not necessarily going to be cheap or affordable for many drivers, since it is meant to be an expensive penalty to prevent a repeat offense from happening. The device price can vary depending on installation locations nearest you, as well as other factors such as how long the length of time it will be required for. The best way to keep the overall total of both a DUI and IID cost low, is to avoid the conviction in court in the first place by getting the proper legal help in time.
Taryn J. White is a legal research specialist and DUI law news reporter. Her current accomplishments include helping those facing any driving under the influence arrest charges, get free online assistance in learning how to fight a DUI case for the best possible outcome.
If you’re looking for the cheapest ignition interlock device you might want to consider that the installation quality could be sub-par. To ensure that you have the most affordable ignition interlock installation, you should look at the nearby install center’s reviews to make sure that you won’t have to take your car back in for interlock fixes or adjustments.
But if you’re looking for the straight-up cheapest interlock device install, the price around $70 to $100 on average. However, many factors determine the cost of a car breathalyzer interlock device like where you live, what type of car you drive, and which features your model car has.
When considering the cost of installing a breathalyzer in your car, the cost of an interlock installation will cost less than getting arrested for driving on a suspended license.
I had a DUI refusal the officer told me he was going to have to put a breathalyzer in my car I said oh I don’t want a breathalyzer in my car he said turn around and put your hands behind your back you going to jail now I have to have the breathalyzer in my car for 4 years I said I’ll take a breathalyzer test he said too late
Sheila, this is a common scare tactic used by police. The police always want you to take the breath test because it gives them more evidence to support the DUI arrest. Some states do have mandatory penalties if you refuse the breath test but that penalty can be challenged by your attorney.
Very good idea by the way.
I got a do you why for possession of controlled substance and have to have an interlock system in my vehicle. Can anybody tell me why you should have to have an interlock system in your vehicle when your conviction had nothing to do with alcohol?
That’s an EXCELLENT ? MY SON IS FACING THE SAME!! COP NEVER CAUGHT HIM EVEN DRIVING! SO MANY SCARE Tactics were used on him it’s really sad this DUI is allowed. He was not even in his vehicle, no keys in his truck. Scare tactics and he is facing DUI, INTERLOCK, VASAP, DRUG COURT, PROBATION WITH 10 YEARS OVER HIS HEAD.