Minnesota’s Ignition Interlock Program (IIP) requires certain people convicted of DWI or DUI crimes to have breathalyzers installed in their vehicle. Understanding the IIP can help you make informed decisions about your future.

How Interlock Works.

The breathalyzer must be installed by one of the certified ignition interlock manufacturers. This requires making an appointment, getting your car to the shop, and paying installation fees. The breathalyzer then controls the ignition system on your vehicle.

You must blow into the breathalyzer to start the car. The device’s camera will take a picture of the person blowing into the breathalyzer. Any amount of alcohol above 0.02 will prevent the car from starting.

The breathalyzer also requires “rolling” tests. After you successfully start the car, tests will occur at random intervals while you drive, typically from 15–45 minutes apart.

Too many failed tests can result in a “lock out”, which will require you to bring the car back to the shop or otherwise prevent the car from being started at all.

Who is Required to Join the IIP?

Usually, the IIP is required for people convicted of DWI with a blood alcohol concentration over twice the legal limit (or 0.16 and up); those with two or more DWIs in the last ten years; or those with multiple DWIs.

The program is also required for many people who have their licenses cancelled as inimical to public safety. These people will need to prove a period of sobriety through the use of the device for several years, with monthly quotas of passed tests.

Penalties and Enforcement.

The IIP program devices require repeated calibration appointments, usually once every 1 or 2 months. This requires an appointment and payment. At these appointments, the shop will download the test results from your device and make sure it is still calibrated.

Failed tests can result in an extension of the time you must spend on the ignition interlock program. This can potentially extend the program indefinitely.

If you are required to participate in the IIP, it is also a crime to drive any vehicle that does not have this breathalyzer installed. Attempts to tamper with or circumvent the device are also criminalized.

Other Consequences and Concerns.

One big problem faced by many people on the IIP is the drain on your car’s battery. Many people find that they need to get their car jump started all the time because the breathalyzer device drains the battery. This can be a serious inconvenience and interfere with your ability to make work or other appointments on time.

Another big problem can be false positive tests. Because the breathalyzer threshold is so low, and the devices are relatively unsophisticated, false positives do occur. There are reports that certain energy drinks or foods with artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols can result in false positive tests. Cigarettes or vapes may also trigger the device. Flare ups of GERD or acid reflux may also create false positives. This can result in innocent people becoming trapped in the IIP.

Driving for work can also be an issue. There may be exceptions where you can drive an employer-owned vehicle even without the breathalyzer. However, asking your employer can draw attention to your conviction, be embarrassing, and cause other problems at work.

Leisure activities are also be problematic. DWI license revocations will prevent you from operating off-road recreational vehicles like snowmobiles and ATVs. Likewise, your boating privileges will be revoked. Many IIP manufacturers currently will not install breathalyzers on motorcycles as well.

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If you or someone you know has been accused of a DWI or DUI in Minnesota, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Contact McKinney Defense today by calling (612) 300-1208 or filling out our online form to schedule a FREE consultation. Let me fight for your rights and help you take the first step toward fair representation.

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