Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) in South Carolina

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

Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are breathalyzer-like devices designed to prevent individuals with a history of alcohol-related offenses from operating a vehicle while under the influence. When an individual tries to start the vehicle, they must blow into the IID, which measures their breath alcohol level. If the breath alcohol concentration is above the legal limit set by South Carolina, the vehicle won’t start. The IID also requires periodic breath tests while the vehicle is in motion, and if this test is failed, the IID will record a violation and notify authorities.

Are IIDs mandatory for DUI or DWI offenders in South Carolina?

Yes, South Carolina requires all convicted DUI/DWI offenders to install and use an ignition interlock device (IID) as part of their sentence.

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

Yes, in South Carolina, a person’s Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) must be 0.15 or higher in order to require an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) to be installed within their vehicle. Additionally, if a person is convicted of a second DUI within 10 years, they must install an IID regardless of their BAC level.

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

Yes, there are different rules for first-time DUI offenders compared to repeat offenders in South Carolina. First-time DUI offenders may face fines of up to $400, a minimum of 48 hours in jail, 48 hours of community service, and/or be sentenced to a drug/alcohol safety course, while repeat offenders may face greater fines, longer jail sentences, and/or be required to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle. Additionally, the penalties for subsequent DUI convictions increase each time an offender is convicted.

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

In South Carolina, an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is typically required to be installed for a period of six months.

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

Yes, there are fees associated with the installation, maintenance, and removal of IIDs in South Carolina. The installation fee is $75, the monthly monitoring fee is $20, and the removal fee is $50.

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

Yes, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducts crash tests on vehicles and provides ratings for how well a vehicle performs in a crash. These ratings often affect the cost of insurance premiums. In South Carolina, the Department of Insurance and Financial Services determines the insurance rates based on the IIHS ratings.

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

If a driver fails an IID breath test while attempting to start the vehicle in South Carolina, their license will be suspended or revoked by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV). Additionally, the driver may face criminal charges for DUI or DWI. The terms of their suspension or revocation will depend on the severity of the offense and any prior convictions within the past ten years.

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

No. The IID requirements only specify that a person must blow into the device before starting a vehicle, and there is no mention of periodic rolling retests.

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

Yes, other people can drive the vehicle with an IID installed in South Carolina. However, the driver must first blow into the IID to start the vehicle. If the driver’s breath-alcohol concentration exceeds the preset limit, the vehicle will not start.

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

Yes, in South Carolina, it is illegal to tamper, bypass, or otherwise circumvent the operation of an ignition interlock device (IID). This includes attempting to start a vehicle with an IID without successfully blowing into the device and having it register a passing breath sample. Penalties for this offense may include a fine, jail time, and/or license suspension.

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

In South Carolina, the Department of Motor Vehicles is responsible for monitoring and enforcing compliance with IID requirements. This includes ensuring that all vehicles fitted with an ignition interlock device are in compliance with the state’s laws and regulations. The DMV also keeps records of all approved IID providers and works with these providers to ensure that all devices are maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements. Furthermore, any challenges or issues related to IID compliance are pursued by the DMV and may result in the suspension or revocation of the offender’s license.

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

Yes, there is a process for appealing or contesting the IID requirement in South Carolina. Individuals can file an appeal of the court order with the South Carolina Administrative Law Court (ALC). The ALC will review the case and determine whether the court order should be upheld or overturned. If the court order is upheld, the individual can then take additional steps to contest the requirement such as filing an appeal to the South Carolina Court of Appeals.

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

No, individuals in South Carolina cannot request a hardship or restricted license during the installation of their IID. However, individuals can apply for a restricted license through the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) once their IID is installed. This application must be approved by the SCDMV before a restricted license can be issued.

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

If someone accumulates violations or fails to comply with IID requirements in South Carolina, they will be subject to sanctions, such as license suspension or revocation, fines, jail time, and higher insurance rates. They may also be required to complete additional DUI classes or educational programs.

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

Yes, there are provisions for indigent individuals who cannot afford IID costs in South Carolina. The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles has established a process for individuals who cannot afford the installation and/or leasing cost of the device. Individuals must provide proof of income to be considered for assistance.

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

In South Carolina, CDLs are subject to IID (Ignition Interlock Device) requirements, which means that all CDL holders must have an IID installed in their vehicles if they have been convicted of a DUI or DWI, or if they have had their driver’s license suspended or revoked due to a DUI or DWI. An IID requires the driver to pass a breathalyzer test before the vehicle will start. If the driver fails the test, the vehicle will not start. IIDs also track the driver’s drinking behavior and alert law enforcement if dui-related incidents occur. All CDL holders in South Carolina must abide by these requirements and will be subject to penalties for failure to comply.

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

Yes, IIDs have different requirements for different types of vehicles in South Carolina. Passenger vehicles must have an IID installed for first-time DUI/DWAI offenses that result in a license suspension or revocation. Motorcycles and other vehicles are not required to have an IID in South Carolina; however, they may be subject to other penalties, such as fines, community service, and/or jail time.

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

Yes, there are several resources and organizations in South Carolina that offer support and guidance for IID users. These include the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services, the South Carolina Ignition Interlock Program, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), and the Ignition Interlock Help Center. Additionally, many local law enforcement agencies in South Carolina have resources available to help offenders comply with their court-ordered ignition interlock device requirements.

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

Yes, individuals in South Carolina can have the IID requirement removed or the duration shortened under certain circumstances. Individuals may be able to have the IID requirement removed if an attorney can prove that the person was unfairly targeted, that the IID was not necessary for safety, or that the person’s driving record has improved since the IID was installed. The duration of the IID requirement may be able to be shortened if the individual has completed all the other requirements such as paying all fines and completing all DUI classes or other recommended treatment. The individual will need to petition the court and provide evidence that they deserve a shorter sentence.