Losing your license can be one of the most frustrating parts of getting arrested for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) in Pennsylvania. Those with previous offenses may have to go without driving privileges for extended amounts of time. Part of getting your license back involves the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in the vehicle that you intend to drive.
An IID is a device that requires you to perform a chemical test before you can start your car. The device also maintains the record of the test that you performed, which means that those who fail tests could have longer waiting periods when trying to regain full driving privileges. When does the state of Pennsylvania require that drivers install an IID in their vehicle?
Repeat offenders often have an IID requirement
Drunk driving is often the result of social behavior or addiction. Someone who has a single DUI conviction on their record is always at risk of reoffending.
Recognizing a high rate of recidivism among those convicted of impaired driving offenses was a major force behind the decision to integrate IIDs into the way the state handles DUI convictions. Those who are repeat offenders will likely have to install an IID as part of the process of regaining their license after their initial suspension.
Who else may have to install an IID?
The state also requires that first-time offenders with very high blood alcohol concentration (BAC), typically at least 0.10 or higher, also have to install an IID in their vehicle. The same is true of those who refuse chemical testing during a traffic stop.
The state can’t force you to install an IID and drive your vehicle, but they can limit you from driving any other vehicle for as long as the mandatory IID requirement persists. If law enforcement officials catch you driving a vehicle without an IID, you could face additional consequences for that decision.
While there are expenses involved in an IID, repeatedly passing breath tests so that you can drive will help establish a positive history and make it easier for you to transition back to driving without restrictions on your license. If you want to prevent long-term driving consequences, fighting back against a DUI charge can help you avoid an IID requirement altogether.