Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) in Alabama

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

Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are installed in motor vehicles to prevent people who are convicted of certain offenses related to driving under the influence of alcohol from operating a motor vehicle. These devices require drivers to blow into a breathalyzer-type device before the vehicle can be started. If the breathalyzer detects a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level above a predetermined limit, typically .02 or .04, the vehicle will remain immobilized and unable to be started.

In Alabama, IIDs are mandatory for certain impaired driving offenses, such as a second or subsequent DUI offense, or a DUI offense resulting in serious injury or death. All IID installations must be done by an approved provider who is registered with the Ignition Interlock Device Program of the Alabama Department of Public Safety. Drivers must also pay all applicable fees associated with IID installation and maintenance.

Are IIDs mandatory for DUI or DWI offenders in Alabama?

No, IIDs are not mandatory for DUI or DWI offenders in Alabama. However, if an offender is convicted of DUI or DWI for the third time within five years, they may be required to use an IID as part of their sentencing.

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

Yes. Alabama law requires an ignition interlock device (IID) for any person convicted of driving under the influence (DUI). The minimum blood alcohol concentration (BAC) triggering IID installation is 0.15% or higher. Additionally, the court may require an IID for any person convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) regardless of the BAC level if the driver had a prior DUI or alcohol-related offense within the previous five years.

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

Yes, there are different rules for first-time DUI offenders compared to repeat offenders in Alabama. First-time DUI offenders can be charged with a Class A misdemeanor, which carries a potential sentence of up to one year in jail and/or a $6,000 fine. If the offender has a prior DUI conviction within the past five years, they will face felony charges and a potential sentence of up to one year in prison and/or a $10,000 fine. In addition, if the offender has three prior DUI convictions within the past five years they could receive a sentence of up to ten years in prison and/or a $20,000 fine.

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

In Alabama, a driver may be ordered to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle as a condition of reinstatement after a DUI conviction. The duration of the IID requirement typically ranges from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the severity of the offense.

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

Yes, there are fees associated with the installation, maintenance, and removal of IIDs in Alabama. The fees vary depending on the service provider, but may include an installation fee, a monthly monitoring fee, and a removal fee.

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

Yes, IID’s can have an impact on insurance premiums for vehicle owners in Alabama. In some cases, insurance companies may offer discounts to customers who install an IID as part of their anti-theft measures.

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

If a driver fails an IID breath test while attempting to start the vehicle in Alabama, they will be subject to a 12-month suspension of their license. During this period, they must have an IID installed in their vehicle and must pass the IID breathalyzer test before the vehicle will start.

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

Yes, in Alabama, you must retest with an IID at least once every 60 days.

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

Yes, an offender can designate another driver for their vehicle with an IID installed in Alabama. The driver must provide proof of valid driver’s license to the court, and must be approved by the court to operate the vehicle.

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

Yes, if you are caught tampering with or attempting to circumvent the IID in Alabama, you could face a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to one year in prison. Additionally, the court may suspend your license for up to six months, or revoke it altogether.

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

The Alabama Department of Public Safety (ADPS) is responsible for monitoring and enforcing compliance with Ignition Interlock Device (IID) requirements in Alabama. ADPS monitors IID-related activity through an automated system, which stores ignition interlock device data and tracks the results of breath tests administered by IIDs. The ADPS also conducts random audits to ensure that individuals with IID requirements are in compliance. Individuals who fail to comply with IID requirements may face stiff penalties, including license suspension and fines.

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

Yes. According to the Alabama Department of Public Safety, individuals who have been ordered to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle may contest the order by filing a petition with the court for a review or appeal. The petition must be filed within ten days of the date the order was issued. The court will then review the case and make a decision as to whether or not to uphold the IID requirement.

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

No. Alabama does not allow individuals to request a hardship or restricted license during the IID installation process.

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

If someone accumulates violations or fails to comply with IID requirements in Alabama, the court may impose fines, suspension of their license, or other penalties. Depending on the severity of the violation, the court may also order an ignition-interlock device as a condition of the driver’s reinstatement. Additionally, the Department of Public Safety can suspend a driver’s license for up to one year if they violate any of the IID requirements.

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

Yes. In Alabama, the Alabama Department of Public Safety has established a Financial Assistance Program that provides funding for indigent individuals to cover the cost of an IID. In order to qualify for this program, individuals must submit an application and provide proof of indigence.

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

In Alabama, the use of an ignition interlock device (IID) is required for all drivers convicted of a DUI offense. If an individual holds a commercial driver’s license (CDL), they must install the IID on their vehicle to retain their CDL, even if the offense did not occur while driving a vehicle with a CDL. Additionally, if an individual is convicted of two subsequent DUI offenses, they may be permanently disqualified from holding a CDL.

IIDs are also used to monitor CDL holders who already have DUIs on their records. All CDL holders must periodically submit proof of IID installation to maintain their eligibility. Finally, commercial drivers must also be aware that the IID will beep if their blood alcohol content is above the legal limit. Consequently, any CDL holder that is found operating with a BAC above the legal limit will be subject to further penalties.

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

Yes, the requirements for passenger vehicles and motorcycles or other vehicles in Alabama do differ. Motorcycles and other vehicles are required to have a separate insurance identification (IID) card. Motorcycles and other vehicles may be subject to additional requirements, such as additional liability insurance, which may not be required for passenger vehicles.

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

Yes, there are several organizations that offer support and guidance for IID users in Alabama. These include the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), and the Dangers of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Coalition of Alabama (DASCA). Additionally, there are several online and in-person support groups available in the state that can help IID users with their recovery journey.

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

Yes, individuals in Alabama may be eligible to have their IID requirement removed or the duration shortened under certain circumstances. For instance, those who can demonstrate a financial hardship may be eligible for a reduced duration of their IID requirement. Additionally, those who can prove a device malfunction or demonstrate a medical emergency that prevents them from using an IID may be eligible to have the requirement removed. It is best to contact the court that issued the sentence for specific instructions on how to apply for these exceptions.