Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) in Pennsylvania

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

The purpose of Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) is to prevent people who have been convicted of a DUI or DWI from driving while impaired. IIDs are installed in the vehicles of those convicted and, prior to starting the vehicle, the driver must provide a breath sample. If the breath sample indicates a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .025 percent or higher, the engine will not start. The IID functions as a breathalyzer and will periodically prompt the driver while the car is running to provide additional samples to ensure that they are not driving while intoxicated.

In Pennsylvania, IID installation and maintenance is handled by private vendors that have been approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). These vendors also provide services like data retrieval, calibration, and maintenance throughout the duration of an individual’s IID requirements.

Are IIDs mandatory for DUI or DWI offenders in Pennsylvania?

No. Pennsylvania does not require Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) for DUI or DWI offenders.

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

Yes, the minimum BAC level that triggers IID installation in Pennsylvania is 0.10%. In addition, the following will also trigger IID installation: (1) Refusal of an officer’s request for a breathalyzer test; (2) Receiving a DUI conviction; (3) Receiving an APC (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition) or ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitation Disposition) sentence; (4) Having three or more DUI/APC/ARD convictions over a ten-year period; (5) Receiving an underage drinking conviction; and (6) Receiving a probation sentence for any DUI/APC/ARD conviction.

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

Yes, there are different rules for first-time DUI offenders compared to repeat offenders in Pennsylvania. First-time DUI offenders face a range of punishments that include license suspension, fines, and the possibility of jail time. For repeat offenders, the punishments become more severe, including longer license suspensions, increased fines, and longer jail sentences. Additionally, repeat offenders may be required to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle and may be required to participate in an alcohol highway safety school.

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

In Pennsylvania, an ignition interlock device (IID) is typically required to be installed in a vehicle for a minimum of one year. The duration of the requirement may vary depending on the type of offense and the discretion of the judge.

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

Yes. Installation fees usually range from $50-$100 for an IID. The annual maintenance fee can range from $50 to $150, depending on the company providing the device. The removal fee is typically $50-$100.

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

Yes, Insurance companies in Pennsylvania may use IID data to help determine the risk of insuring a vehicle and set premiums accordingly. The data can be useful in assessing the likelihood of future losses an insurance company could face if insuring the vehicle.

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

If a driver fails an IID breath test in Pennsylvania, they will be subject to license suspension for one year for a first offense and a minimum of two years for a second offense. Additionally, the vehicle will not start until the driver passes the IID breath test.

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

Yes, there is a requirement for periodic rolling retests while driving with an IID in Pennsylvania. The IID must be set up to require periodic rolling retests and must be calibrated to the appropriate Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level. Drivers are required to provide a breath sample at the request of the IID at any time while driving.

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

Yes, anyone with a valid driver’s license can drive a vehicle with an IID installed, as long as the offender is in the passenger seat and has an ignition interlock restricted driver’s license.

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

Yes. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, penalties for tampering with or circumventing an ignition interlock device include fines, probation, community service, and possible jail time. In addition, a driver’s license may be suspended or revoked.

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

Pennsylvania’s Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is responsible for the enforcement of IID requirements in the state. The department works to ensure compliance by monitoring IID installations, providing technical assistance to law enforcement officers, issuing citations to drivers who violate IID requirements, and suspending or revoking the driver’s license of those found to be in violation. Additionally, PennDOT works with other state and local agencies to ensure that all required IID requirements are being met.

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

Yes, there is a process for appealing or contesting the IID requirement in Pennsylvania. The process is outlined in Pennsylvania’s Ignition Interlock Law and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s “Pennsylvania Ignition Interlock Program Manual.” Generally, if an individual believes that they are being wrongfully required to install or maintain an ignition interlock device, they can request an appeal hearing with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). During the hearing, the individual can present evidence to support their claim and challenge the decision of PennDOT. If the individual is successful in their appeal, they may be able to avoid having to use an ignition interlock device.

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

Yes, individuals can request a hardship or restricted license during IID installation in Pennsylvania. The state requires anyone convicted of a DUI-related offense to obtain an ignition interlock device, commonly referred to as an IID. Those who have been ordered by the court to install an IID in their vehicle may be eligible for a restricted or hardship license if they meet certain criteria. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) provides information on their website regarding the requirements and process for applying for a restricted or hardship license.

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

If someone accumulates violations or fails to comply with IID requirements in Pennsylvania, they may face a number of consequences. These consequences may include license suspension, fines, jail time, higher insurance rates, or increased monitoring requirements. Penalties for violations of IID requirements also include revocation of the offender’s driving privileges if the violation is severe enough.

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

Yes, there are provisions for indigent individuals who cannot afford IID costs in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) provides a financial hardship waiver for those who are unable to pay the costs associated with the installation and/or monitoring of an ignition interlock device (IID). Individuals who are approved by the financial hardship waiver program may receive up to a 75% reduction in IID installation and monitoring costs.

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

The use of ignition interlock devices (IIDs) has a major impact on commercial drivers in Pennsylvania. An IID requires CDL holders to blow into a device that measures the alcohol level in their system before they can start their vehicle. If the driver’s breath alcohol level is above a predetermined level, then the vehicle will not start.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation requires CDL holders with certain DUI convictions to install IIDs in their vehicles in order to maintain their driving privileges. In addition, CDL holders who fail to follow the requirements of the IID program or who are arrested for a DUI while operating a commercial vehicle may face suspension or revocation of their CDL.

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

Yes, they do. For passenger vehicles, drivers must complete a 72-hour course that includes at least 20 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction. For motorcycles, drivers must complete a 15-hour course that includes at least 5 hours of classroom instruction and 10 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction. Additionally, while both passenger vehicles and motorcycles require the driver to pass a written knowledge test, motorcycles also require drivers to pass a skills test.

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

Yes, there are several resources and organizations that offer support and guidance for IID users in Pennsylvania. These include the Pennsylvania Ignition Interlock Program, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), Pennsylvania DUI Association, and many others. Additionally, many local court systems have resources, such as DUI classes and counseling, to help those with IID violations.

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

Yes. In Pennsylvania, individuals may qualify for early termination or removal of their IID requirement after six months. Generally, individuals must demonstrate that they have not violated the terms of their probation and have completed any required alcohol and/or drug treatment. Additionally, there are certain circumstances where an individual may qualify for an IID duration shorter than six months. These include individuals who have previously been convicted of DUI, as well as those who have been ordered to install an IID as a condition of accelerated rehabilitative disposition (ARD).