Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) in Idaho

What is the purpose of Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs), and how do they work in Idaho?

Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are breathalyzers that are connected to a vehicle’s ignition system. The purpose of IIDs is to prevent a vehicle from being started if the driver has been drinking alcohol. In Idaho, drivers convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Physical Control (PC) may be required to install an IID in their vehicles. The driver must blow into the device in order for the vehicle to start, and the device will measure the driver’s blood alcohol content. If the level exceeds 0.02%, the vehicle will not start.

Are IIDs mandatory for DUI or DWI offenders in Idaho?

No, IIDs (ignition interlock devices) are not mandatory for all DUI or DWI offenders in Idaho. IIDs are only required for offenders who have been convicted of a second or subsequent offense, if their BAC was .20 or higher, or if their BAC was .16 or higher and they had a minor child in the vehicle at the time of the offense.

Is there a minimum BAC level or specific circumstances that trigger IID installation in Idaho?

Yes, in Idaho the minimum BAC level that triggers IID installation is .08% or higher. Additionally, a person can be required to install an IID if they are convicted of two or more violations of Idaho’s DUI laws within a five-year period, or if they are convicted of a felony DUI.

Are there different rules for first-time DUI offenders compared to repeat offenders in Idaho?

Yes, there are different rules for first-time DUI offenders compared to repeat offenders in Idaho. For first-time DUI offenders, the penalties can include a fine of up to $1,000, up to 6 months in jail, and a 90-day license suspension. For repeat offenders, the penalties can include a fine of up to $2,000, up to 5 years in prison, and an indefinite license suspension.

How long is an IID typically required to be installed in a vehicle in Idaho?

In Idaho, an ignition interlock device (IID) is typically required to be installed in a vehicle for a minimum of 1 year. However, the duration may be extended depending on the circumstances of the offense.

Are there fees associated with the installation, maintenance, and removal of IIDs in Idaho?

Yes, there are fees associated with the installation, maintenance, and removal of IIDs in Idaho. The fees are set by the Idaho Department of Motor Vehicles and they vary by county. Typically, the installation fee is around $100, the monthly maintenance fee is around $3, and the removal fee is around $50.

Do IIDs have any impact on insurance premiums for the vehicle owner in Idaho?

Yes, IIDs can have an impact on insurance premiums for the vehicle owner in Idaho. In Idaho, an IID is mandatory for all repeat DUI offenders as part of the court-ordered conditions of probation. Insurance companies may use the installation of an IID as an indication of an individual’s commitment to safe and responsible driving, which can result in lower insurance premiums for customers who install the device.

What happens if a driver fails an IID breath test while attempting to start the vehicle in Idaho?

If a driver fails an IID breath test while attempting to start the vehicle in Idaho, the vehicle will not start and the driver will face penalties in accordance with Idaho DUI laws. Depending on the number of prior offenses, the driver could face hefty fines, jail time, license suspension or revocation, community service, and/or mandatory participation in an alcohol or drug education program.

Is there a requirement for periodic rolling retests while driving with an IID in Idaho?

Yes, there is a requirement for periodic rolling retests while driving with an IID in Idaho. Drivers are required to blow into the device for a rolling retest every 15 minutes while the vehicle is in motion. The IID must also pass a monthly diagnostic test.

Can someone other than the offender drive the vehicle with an IID installed in Idaho?

Yes, as long as the driver has permission from the registered owner of the vehicle. The driver must also be over 21 years of age and have a valid driver’s license.

Are there penalties for attempting to tamper with or circumvent the IID in Idaho?

Yes. According to Idaho law, tampering with or circumventing an ignition interlock device is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.

How does our state monitor and enforce compliance with IID requirements in Idaho?

The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is responsible for monitoring and enforcing compliance with IID requirements in Idaho. ITD enforces the IID program through a zero tolerance policy. If a driver is found to be in violation of the requirements, they are subject to immediate suspension or revocation of their license, as well as additional penalties such as fines, mandatory participation in an alcohol/drug education program, and additional installation of IIDs. Law enforcement officers may also require drivers to submit to a breath, blood or urine test to determine any presence of alcohol.

Is there a process for appealing or contesting the IID requirement in Idaho?

Yes, an appeal for an IID requirement in Idaho can be made by contacting Idaho’s Department of Motor Vehicles. The appeal must include a written statement explaining why the IID is being contested. The appeal can also include any additional relevant evidence that can help support the case. The DMV will review the appeal and make a decision based on the evidence provided.

Can individuals request a hardship or restricted license during IID installation in Idaho?

No, individuals in Idaho are not eligible to request a hardship or restricted license during the installation of an IID. According to Idaho’s Department of Motor Vehicles, to obtain a restricted license you must first complete an Alcohol Substance Evaluation and then present the evaluation to the court for consideration. The court will then determine whether or not to grant the applicant a restricted license.

What happens if someone accumulates violations or fails to comply with IID requirements in Idaho?

If someone accumulates violations or fails to comply with IID requirements in Idaho, they will face stiff penalties, including license suspension/revocation, increased fines, and jail time. Additionally, the court may order an offender to attend alcohol/drug awareness classes or counseling, install an ignition interlock device on all vehicles owned or operated by the offender, and/or complete community service.

Are there provisions for indigent individuals who cannot afford IID costs in Idaho?

Yes, there is a provision for indigent individuals who cannot afford the costs of an ignition interlock device in Idaho. The court may issue an order allowing the court to waive the installation fees, monthly monitoring fees, and/or daily rental fees for an ignition interlock device if the individual is determined to be indigent and unable to pay the costs.

How do IIDs impact commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) and CDL holders in Idaho?

Idaho requires all commercial drivers convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicles before they can receive a restricted driver’s license, which is necessary to obtain and maintain a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL). The IID prevents the vehicle from starting if the driver has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.02 percent or higher. Drivers must blow into the device before being allowed to operate the vehicle.

Drivers who fail to comply with IID requirements are subject to license suspension, revocation, denial, and other penalties, including fines and jail time. Additionally, CDL holders in Idaho must have an IID installed in any vehicle they drive for business purposes, including commercial vehicles. As part of the requirements for maintaining a CDL in Idaho, drivers must also submit proof that they have complied with any IID requirements before receiving their license or renewing it.

Do IIDs differ in requirements for passenger vehicles versus motorcycles or other vehicles in Idaho?

Yes, IIDs are different for passenger vehicles and motorcycles or other vehicles in Idaho. Passenger vehicles must install an IID with an alcohol-sensing feature that requires the driver to provide a breath sample before the vehicle can start. Motorcycles and other vehicles must install an IID that will record data of the vehicle’s operation.

Are there resources or organizations that offer support and guidance for IID users in Idaho?

Yes. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare offers a range of support and guidance services for IID users in Idaho. This includes resources such as checklists, tips, and educational materials to help understand the program and properly install and use an ignition interlock device. Additionally, there are multiple organizations throughout Idaho that provide support and guidance to IID users. These organizations include Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Idaho, the Community Alcohol & Drug Coalition of Idaho, and the Idaho Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services (ISMHS).

Can individuals have the IID requirement removed or the duration shortened under certain circumstances in Idaho?

Yes, individuals can have the IID requirement removed or the duration shortened under certain circumstances in Idaho. In some cases, a judge may approve a motion to reduce the length of the IID requirement, or even remove it altogether. Another way to have the IID requirement removed or shortened is to complete an alcohol or drug treatment program. The court will need to review a petition from the individual and any supporting documentation before making a decision.