Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) in Indiana

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

Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are in-car breathalyzer devices that are installed in vehicles and are used to prevent individuals who have been convicted of drunk driving from being able to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence. IIDs require drivers to blow into a breathalyzer test every time they start their car. If their breath test registers alcohol above the legal limit, the car will not start. In Indiana, drivers who have been convicted of drunk driving must have an IID installed in any vehicle they own, operate, or have access to for a certain period of time.

Are IIDs mandatory for DUI or DWI offenders in Indiana?

No, IIDs are not mandatory for DUI or DWI offenders in Indiana. However, the court may require the use of an ignition interlock device (IID) if the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was .08 or higher, or if the driver was operating a vehicle while intoxicated with drugs.

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

Yes, in Indiana, the legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit for driving is 0.08 percent. If a person is arrested for Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) with a BAC of 0.15 percent or higher, they must install an ignition interlock device (IID) as a condition of their probation or parole. If a person refuses or fails an ethanol breath test, they must install an IID on their vehicle as a condition of a special driving privilege or restricted license. Additionally, a court may order an IID installation on any vehicle owned or operated by an OWI offender, regardless of BAC level.

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

Yes, there are different rules for first-time DUI offenders and repeat offenders in Indiana. First time offenders may face more lenient penalties such as a shorter jail sentence, a smaller fine, or a shorter license suspension. However, repeat offenders may face more serious penalties such as longer jail sentences, higher fines, longer license suspensions, and the possibility of having an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle.

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

An IID typically must be installed in a vehicle in Indiana for 180 days, although this length of time can be extended depending on the circumstances.

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

Yes, there are fees associated with the installation, maintenance, and removal of IIDs in Indiana. The fees vary depending on the make and model of the device and the provider. Generally, there is a one-time installation fee, an ongoing monthly monitoring fee, and a removal fee.

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

In Indiana, IIDs can have an impact on insurance premiums for vehicle owners. Insurers may offer drivers discounts for installing an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicles, as this device helps to prevent impaired driving. The amount of this discount can vary depending on the insurer.

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

If a driver fails an IID breath test while attempting to start the vehicle in Indiana, they will be subject to an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing. At the hearing, the ALJ will determine whether the driver’s license should be suspended. If the ALJ rules in favor of the state, the driver’s license will be suspended for a period of time as determined by the ALJ.

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

Yes, while driving with an IID in Indiana, you must take periodic rolling retests. The frequency of retests depends on the individual circumstances, but typically they must be taken every 30 minutes or less.

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

Yes, someone other than the offender can drive the vehicle with an IID installed in Indiana as long as the driver has a valid Indiana driver’s license and is not under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

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

Yes, tampering with or circumventing an IID in Indiana is a Class A misdemeanor which carries a penalty of up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $5,000.

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

In Indiana, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is responsible for monitoring and enforcing compliance with IID requirements. The BMV helps to ensure that all IID requirements are followed by monitoring alcohol levels within the vehicle and ensuring that devices are properly installed and calibrated. Additionally, the BMV works with local law enforcement agencies to respond to any reported violations of IID requirements.

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

Yes, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) allows for appeals of the IID requirement. In order to appeal the requirement, an individual must submit a Petition for Review of Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Requirement to the BMV. The petition must include a sworn affidavit, showing that the individual cannot afford, or is otherwise unable to comply with, the IID requirement. The BMV will determine if the individual is eligible for an appeal of the IID requirement based on the submitted information.

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

Yes, individuals in Indiana may be able to request a hardship or restricted license during the installation of an ignition interlock device. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) may issue a hardship license for individuals who demonstrate that their need to drive is essential for employment, medical care, or other purposes. Individuals must also have a valid license and have completed all other requirements that are needed to reinstate their license. The Indiana BMV will review each request on a case-by-case basis and can grant a restricted license if deemed appropriate.

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

If someone accumulates violations or fails to comply with IID requirements in Indiana, they may face a variety of consequences, including revoking the person’s license, increasing fines or fees, suspending their driving privileges, or even jail time. In addition, the person may be required to install an interlock device on their vehicle and complete additional alcohol education and/or rehabilitation programs if deemed necessary.

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

Yes, there are provisions for indigent individuals who cannot afford IID costs in Indiana. In Indiana, indigent individuals may qualify for financial assistance through the Financial Responsibility Bureau or apply for a hardship waiver. The Financial Responsibility Bureau will cover the cost of installation and rental of an IID for those who qualify and have met the eligibility requirements. Additionally, individuals may apply for a hardship waiver if they cannot afford to pay the costs associated with the IID. To apply for a hardship waiver, applicants must provide proof of their financial eligibility.

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

In Indiana, the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) is a requirement for any driver convicted of a drunk-driving offense with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.15% or higher. Any driver with a CDL who is found guilty of drunk driving with a BAC greater than 0.15% will have their CDL suspended for twelve months and will be required to install an IID in their vehicle in order to have their license reinstated. This requirement applies to all CDL holders in Indiana, regardless of the type of vehicle they are operating. The IID must remain in the vehicle for a period of at least six months, during which time the driver must submit to regular breath tests prior to operating the vehicle. Failure to submit to the tests or register a BAC higher than 0.08% will result in the driver’s CDL being revoked for an additional twelve months.

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

The requirements for passenger vehicles and motorcycles differ in Indiana when it comes to IIDs. Motorcyclists must have an ignition interlock device installed if they have been convicted of OWI/DUI or had a blood alcohol content level of 0.15 or above. Passenger vehicle operators must have an IID installed if they have been convicted of OWI/DUI or had a blood alcohol content level of 0.08 or above.

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

Yes, there are several resources and organizations that offer support and guidance for IID users in Indiana. These include the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), which offers information on the IID program, as well as access to a certified IID technician. Other organizations include the Indiana Alcohol and Drug Abuse Association (IADAA) and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). Additionally, the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) provides resources for individuals in need of substance abuse treatment and prevention services.

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

Yes, individuals may have the IID requirement removed or the duration shortened under certain circumstances in Indiana. The individual must meet certain requirements, including six months of successful IID use, to have the IID requirement removed or the duration shortened. Additionally, the court may shorten or waive the IID requirement in certain extenuating circumstances.