5 Things to Know About Ignition Interlock in Arizona

If you have been convicted of drunken driving in Arizona, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your car. This is true even for a first-time DUI conviction.

An ignition interlock device is basically a breath analyzing device that’s installed directly into the dashboard of your vehicle. Before the vehicle is started, you will be asked to blow into the device. If the device detects alcohol on your breath, the vehicle will not start.

Even after successfully starting your vehicle, you will be asked to blow into the device at random times to ensure your sobriety.

]]>
If you are required to install an ignition interlock device into your car, here are five things you should know, as provided by the Arizona Department of Transportation:

1. What happens if you drive without installing the device? If you are ordered to install a device and fail to do so while continuing to drive, you could lose your driving privileges or be ordered to have the ignition interlock device installed for a longer period of time.
2. Do you need to install a device for drugged driving? Yes. It doesn’t matter if you were arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you will be required to install the device.
3. How does the government measure compliance? The ignition interlock device records your attempts to blow into the device. So if you drank alcohol and then tried to start your car, the device will record this effort. Every 30 days you will be required to have the device calibrated at the place where you had it installed. The installer will take the data from the device and pass it along to the authorities.
4. What if you need to drive for work? You can have your employer fill out a notice form that will allow you to drive the company vehicle.
5. What happens if you move out of state? You still have to meet Arizona’s ignition interlock requirements, meaning that you’ll have to contact an interlock installer in your new state who can comply with Arizona’s requirements.

Related Resources:

• Browse Phoenix DUI Lawyers and Law Firms (FindLaw)
• More Than a DUI: Sentencing Enhancements in Arizona (FindLaw’s Phoenix DUI Blog)
• If You Plead Guilty to a DUI, Do You Need a Lawyer? (FindLaw’s Phoenix DUI Blog)
• The FindLaw Guide to DUI Charges (FindLaw – Free Download)