Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) in Tennessee

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

Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are breathalyzers that are connected to a vehicle’s ignition system. The purpose of IIDs is to prevent individuals who have been convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol from operating a vehicle while impaired. In Tennessee, drivers convicted of certain vehicular offenses, such as vehicular homicide, are required to install an IID in their vehicles after conviction. When the driver attempts to start the vehicle, they must provide a breath sample into the device. If the breath sample meets or exceeds the pre-set alcohol concentration level, the vehicle will not start and the driver will be prevented from operating the vehicle while intoxicated.

Are IIDs mandatory for DUI or DWI offenders in Tennessee?

No, IIDs are not mandatory for DUI or DWI offenders in Tennessee. However, if an individual refuses to submit to a breath test and is subsequently convicted of DUI, they may be required to install an IID in their vehicle as a condition of their probation.

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

Yes. In Tennessee, a person must install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) if they are convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) and their Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. The same applies if a person refuses to submit to a chemical test after being arrested for DUI.

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

Yes, there are different rules for first-time DUI offenders compared to repeat offenders in Tennessee. First-time DUI offenders face much less severe penalties than repeat offenders. The punishment for a first DUI offense in Tennessee can include fines, jail time, suspension of the offender’s license, community service, and mandatory completion of an alcohol safety education program. Repeat offenders, however, face steeper fines and longer jail sentences, as well as more stringent license suspensions and vehicle impoundment.

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

In Tennessee, an ignition interlock device must be installed for a period of six months or more, depending on the severity of the offense.

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

Yes, there are fees associated with the installation, maintenance, and removal of IIDs in Tennessee. The installation fee is $75, the monthly maintenance fee is $25, and the removal fee is $50. Additionally, the offender is responsible for any costs associated with having the device serviced or calibrated as needed.

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

Yes, in Tennessee, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) provides vehicle ratings which are used to determine insurance premiums. If a vehicle has a higher IIHS rating, then it will typically receive a lower insurance premium.

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

If a driver fails an IID breath test while attempting to start a vehicle in Tennessee, then they will be subject to penalties under Tennessee’s implied consent law. These penalties could include a license suspension, fines, and/or jail time. Additionally, the vehicle may be impounded until the driver is able to produce a valid license.

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

No, there is no requirement for periodic rolling retests while driving with an IID in Tennessee. The only requirement is for the driver to blow into the device before starting the car and periodically while driving.

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

Yes. In Tennessee, anyone may drive the vehicle with an IID installed so long as they are not the offender.

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

Yes. In Tennessee, any person found tampering with or attempting to circumvent an IID may face criminal charges and/or suspension of their driver’s license. Additionally, the court may order the offender to pay any costs associated with the installation and/or maintenance of the IID.

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

In Tennessee, the Department of Safety and Homeland Security is responsible for monitoring and enforcing compliance with IID requirements. This includes issuing citations for violations of IID requirements, suspending drivers’ licenses, and revoking vehicle registrations. The department also works with local law enforcement to ensure that all ignition interlock devices are installed correctly and that drivers are using them as required. The state also has an online reporting system that allows users to report ignition interlock violations.

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

Yes, you may appeal an IID requirement in Tennessee. The court generally grants motions to waive or reduce the IID requirement if there is a financial hardship, you have a medical condition that prevents you from using the device, or if your vehicle does not meet the requirements for an IID. However, the court may deny your request if there is evidence that you are likely to reoffend. You may also contest the IID requirement by filing a motion to dismiss or other motions with the court.

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

No, individuals cannot request a hardship or restricted license during IID installation in Tennessee. In order to obtain a restricted license, individuals must first appear in court to have their license reinstated. The court will then determine whether a restricted license is appropriate.

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

If someone fails to comply with the IID requirements in Tennessee, they may face serious consequences. Depending on the severity of the violation, the court could impose fines, order community service, or require an alcohol/drug treatment program. If the offender fails to comply with the IID requirements multiple times, their license may be revoked for up to a year and their vehicle registration may be revoked for up to a year.

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

Yes, there are a few options available for indigent individuals who cannot afford IID costs in Tennessee. The offender’s probation or parole officer may be able to help them get IID related expenses covered through a variety of programs and resources. For example, offenders may be able to access financial assistance from the Department of Safety and Homeland Security, the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission, or the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Additionally, some counties may have funds set aside specifically for IID-related expenses.

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

In Tennessee, individuals with a CDL who are convicted of an alcohol-related offense must install an ignition interlock device (IID) in all vehicles they own or operate, or risk losing their commercial driver’s license. Additionally, individuals with a CDL can be required to install an IID based upon an administrative decision made by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. An IID requires a driver to blow into a breathalyzer before the vehicle engine will start. The driver must register an alcohol-free breath sample in order for the vehicle to start. If the driver fails to provide an alcohol-free breath test, the vehicle will not start and the incident will be recorded.

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

Yes. Motorcycles are required to have an IID for both a first and second offense of driving under the influence (DUI) in Tennessee, while passenger vehicles are only required to have an IID for a second offense of DUI.

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

Yes, there are several resources and organizations that offer support and guidance for IID users in Tennessee. The Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security provides information and resources related to the state’s Ignition Interlock Device (IID) program, including information about approved vendors, costs, and how to register an IID. The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (ABC) also provides helpful information for IID users, including contact information for registered IID providers. In addition, MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) Tennessee offers 24-hour victim assistance and support to victims of drunk driving crashes.

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

Yes, under certain conditions individuals in Tennessee can have their IID requirement removed or the duration shortened. The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security’s Driver Services Division has the authority to review requests for IID requirement removal or duration reduction on a case-by-case basis. Requests can be submitted by mail, email, or fax.