Laws in the State of Oregon allow courts to require ignition interlock devices (IID) in cases of driving while under the influence of intoxicants (DUII). An IID is a device that measures a driver’s breath alcohol content. If the driver’s breath alcohol is above a preset limit, the vehicle will not start.
Those who are convicted of DUII in Oregon must install an IID in their vehicle in order to receive a hardship permit while their regular driver license is suspended for DUII or before their regular driver license can be reinstated after a DUII suspension. A hardship permit allows a person to drive to and from work, drive on the job, seek employment, participate in an alcohol or drug rehabilitation program or get medical treatment required on a regular basis. Driving for any other reason is not allowed with a hardship permit. Hardship permits do not allow for driving of commercial vehicles. Commercial drivers convicted of DUII may be eligible for hardship permits but would need to downgrade to a Class C driver license. Persons who are between the ages of 13 and 20 years old and have their driver licenses suspended for an underage alcohol offense are not eligible for a hardship permit, but may be eligible for an emergency driver permit.
The IID requirement begins on the last day of the DUII suspension. For first time offenders, the device must be installed for one year. Second and subsequent convictions require the device to be installed for two years. 
The IID must be installed when required and cannot be removed from the vehicle until approved by the court. If the device is not installed or is removed without court approval, the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles will suspend driving privileges. IIDs must be purchased from a manufacturer approved by the state of Oregon. The Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles cannot waive the IID reinstatement requirements for temporarily out-of-state residents. Oregon residents convicted of DUII that are outside the state and need to have IIDs installed to reinstate their Oregon driving privileges should contact the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles to find an IID provider.
Persons who are convicted of DUII are responsible for all fees and costs associated with the ignition interlock device including the installation, lease, monthly monitoring and removal of the device. Financial assistance may be available for those who cannot afford to pay the costs associated with the IID. In order to qualify for assistance, a person must meet the standard for indigence, which includes having a current food stamp identification card issued by the Oregon Department of Human Services. For anyone who does not have a food stamp identification card, the local Oregon Department of Human Services office can help with determining eligibility. For those who meet the requirements for financial assistance with the IID costs, fee waivers can be requested from a vendor who is contracted with the Addictions and Mental Health Division. To obtain reimbursement of the device fees, proof of indigence must be provided to the vendor.
Additional Resources For Ignition Interlock Oregon Laws
Ignition Interlock Laws Oregon
Oregon Law On Ignition Interlock Devices
Circumstances Under Which Ignition Interlock Device Required in Oregon
Need An Ignition Interlock Device In Oregon?
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