Help! I Received A Dmv Letter About An Ignition Interlock

Lifesafer partners with tens of thousands of clients each year to successfully complete their ignition interlock device (IID) program. Do you have a letter from the DMV about getting an ignition interlock installed? Stick with us and we’ll have you on the road in no time.

A lot happens in a short time after a DUI arrest.  You will have a court date to deal with criminal charges and have actions to take regarding your license and ability to drive.  Each state’s DUI laws are different. The situation regarding your DUI/DWI is always unique, so you should seek legal advice to help navigate your way through the many proceedings and consequences.

I Received the Letter. Now What?

In most states, you will receive a letter from the licensing agency or DMV that will outline the steps you need to take to restore your ability to drive legally.

The state’s website often provides general information about DUIs, license suspensions and the need for special SR-22 insurance.  Many sites offer the ability to complete the interlock license recovery process online.

What Should I Expect?

When you learn you’ll need an interlock (also known as an in-car breathalyzer or blow and go), it’s important to understand that the program is more than just installing the IID.  First, you’ll make your appointment to get the interlock installed. You will also have to complete steps to reinstate your license.

Most states provide a special license (often known as an interlock restricted license) that replaces your original unrestricted license.  Make sure to fully understand any limits to your ability to drive so you stay in compliance with the license.

Testing happens every time you drive. Your initial test requires additional time for the unit to warm up.  While  LifeSafer Ignition Interlock units warm up in under 3 minutes in temperatures as low as -40 degrees, this is still additional time you need to plan for before you get underway.

Blowing and humming into the device with the right amount of force and tone is straightforward, but here will be a quick reset period before you can provide another sample if you don’t get it right on the first try. This is why we stress that you will have to change your routines to successfully incorporate the ignition interlock device into your life.

Monitoring Appointments

These appointments are another very important part of your program.  Again, this is an adjustment and for the length of your program a task that you’ll need to pay special attention to.  Your state sets the time between monitoring appointments and you need to make sure you get your device calibrated and data downloaded at the right time.

Getting Locked Out

One of the biggest frustrations interlock program participants can experience is a device permanent lockout.  This happens when you have either failed too many tests or, more commonly, when you miss the deadline for taking the device to an authorized service provider. It’s helpful to note at the beginning of your program how often you need to go for service and set reminders on your phone or calendar for your periodic service deadline.  Our devices will alert you when you need to come in for monitoring (check out our user manuals for full details). We’ll also send you email reminders before your appointment date and if you miss a scheduled appointment.

It’s a big responsibility to successfully complete an ignition interlock program, and we want to help.  Once you’ve received the notice to get your ignition interlock installed, fill out our enrollment form and we’ll get you on your way!