Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) in New Hampshire

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

Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are designed to prevent people who have been convicted of driving while impaired from driving after consuming alcohol. IIDs are installed in the vehicle of an offender and require the driver to provide a breath sample before the engine will start. If a predetermined amount of alcohol is detected in the breath sample, the engine will not start.

In New Hampshire, drivers convicted of DWI offenses are required to install an IID in their vehicle. Furthermore, they must pay all associated costs and maintain it for any length of time determined by the court. The driver must also comply with all calibration, maintenance, and reporting requirements as set out by state law.

Are IIDs mandatory for DUI or DWI offenders in New Hampshire?

No, IIDs (Ignition Interlock Devices) are not mandatory for DUI/DWI offenders in New Hampshire. The state does have an IID program, but it is voluntary and requires the offender to pay for the installation and monitoring of the device.

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

Yes, in New Hampshire, the minimum BAC level that triggers an IID installation is .08, which is the same as the legal limit for alcohol-impaired driving in New Hampshire. Additionally, drivers convicted of DUI/DWI offenses are also required to install an IID as part of their sentence.

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

Yes, there are different rules for first-time DUI offenders compared to repeat offenders in New Hampshire. For a first-time offender, the penalties can include a license suspension, fines, and a possible jail sentence. For repeat offenders, the penalties may be more severe and can include an extended license suspension, higher fines, community service, installation of an ignition interlock device, and a longer jail sentence.

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

In New Hampshire, an IID is typically required to be installed in a vehicle for a period of one year.

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

Yes, there are fees associated with the installation, maintenance, and removal of IIDs in New Hampshire. According to the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles, the fee for installation is $50, the monthly maintenance fee is $50, and the removal fee is $30.

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

No. Insurance premiums are based on the vehicle owner’s driving record, the type of vehicle, and other factors. IIDs do not directly impact insurance premiums in New Hampshire.

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

If a driver fails an IID breath test while attempting to start the vehicle in New Hampshire, the vehicle will not start until the driver provides a clean breath sample. If the driver fails multiple breath tests, he or she may face stiffer penalties, such as a license suspension.

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

No, there is not currently a requirement for periodic rolling retests while driving with an IID in New Hampshire. The state requires drivers to use the device for a set period of time, usually from six months to three years. During this time, drivers must provide monthly breath samples and must keep up with any scheduled maintenance or calibration of the device.

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

Yes. In New Hampshire, anyone can drive a vehicle with an IID installed as long as they have a valid drivers license and follow the conditions of the court order.

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

Yes, tampering with or circumventing an IID in New Hampshire is a violation of state law. Any person found guilty of tampering with or circumventing an IID in New Hampshire may be subject to fines, jail time, and/or a revoked driver’s license.

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

The New Hampshire Department of Safety, Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), is responsible for monitoring and enforcing compliance with IID requirements in the state. The DMV maintains a list of approved ignition interlock device (IID) providers, and all approved providers must meet the criteria set forth by the DMV. The DMV also oversees the installation and maintenance of IIDs, conducts periodic inspections and audits of these devices, and ensures that the IID provider is providing accurate information to the court. Additionally, the DMV can revoke or suspend the license or registration of any driver who fails to comply with IID requirements or tamper with their device.

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

Yes. In New Hampshire, an appeal may be filed within 30 days of receiving the notification that an IID is required. The appeal should be filed with the New Hampshire DMV, and should include as much information about the reason for the appeal as possible. Additionally, the DMV will require a fee of $50 to file the appeal. The DMV will make a determination based on the information provided in the appeal.

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

No, individuals are not able to request a hardship or restricted license during IID installation in New Hampshire. According to the New Hampshire Department of Safety, the only way to receive a hardship or restricted license is to apply for an administrative hearing with the Bureau of Hearings.

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

If someone fails to comply with IID requirements in New Hampshire, they may be found guilty of a Class B misdemeanor and face a fine of up to $1,200. They may also be subject to license suspension for a period of time, and the court may impose additional fines and penalties.

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

Yes, New Hampshire has provisions for indigent individuals who cannot afford IID costs. The New Hampshire Department of Safety has a program called the Ignition Interlock Device Assistance Program (IIDAP) that provides assistance to individuals who cannot afford the costs of installing, servicing, and maintaining an ignition interlock device. To be eligible, applicants must meet specific criteria, including income eligibility requirements.

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

In New Hampshire, an ignition interlock device (IID) is required for all drivers convicted of a DWI offense, including commercial drivers. The installation of an IID on the vehicle of a CDL holder serves as an additional safeguard to help keep impaired drivers off the road, and provides an extra layer of protection for other drivers and pedestrians. These devices must be installed in all vehicles operated by someone with a CDL, and must be used every time the vehicle is started. Failure to comply with the requirements of an ignition interlock device will result in the immediate suspension of a CDL holder’s license.

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

Yes, the requirements for IIDs differ between passenger vehicles and motorcycles/other vehicles in New Hampshire. For passenger vehicles, the court can mandate an IID installation if the driver has been convicted of a DWI offense. Motorcycles/other vehicles, however, require an IID installation if the driver is convicted of two DWI offenses or more.

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

Yes, there are several resources and organizations that offer support and guidance for IID users in New Hampshire. Some examples include the New Hampshire Department of Safety’s Ignition Interlock Program, the National Motorists Association, the New Hampshire chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and the New Hampshire Alcohol & Drug Treatment Centers.

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

Yes, individuals in New Hampshire may be able to have the IID requirement removed or the duration shortened under certain circumstances. For example, drivers who have completed their original license suspension period may be eligible to have their IID requirement removed and their license restored. To be eligible for this, they must have met all other reinstatement requirements, such as completing a Driver Improvement Program. Additionally, individuals who have successfully completed an alcohol abuse treatment program may be eligible to have their IID requirement reduced from a 3-year period to a one-year period.