What is Interlock?
Interlock is an ignition device that is installed on a motor vehicle which prohibits operation of the vehicle while the driver is under the influence of alcohol.
How does Interlock work?
Interlock requires the driver to provide a breath sample before the car is allowed to start, if elevated alcohol levels are detected the car will not start. Interlock will periodically require samples while the vehicle is in operation, if elevated alcohol levels are detected at this time the car will not stop but will sound an alert (horn honking repeatedly or headlights flashing.
When will I be required to have an interlock system installed?
Interlock can be required when driving privileges are reinstated for any DUI conviction from 1st offense to designation as habitual traffic offender. It can also be required after driving privilege revocation for 2ndand 3rd offense cases where the driver refused a blood of breath test.
I lost my driving privileges; can I get them reinstated early with an interlock device?
Possibly, an individual may be eligible for reinstate early with an interlock device. The driver must be a resident of Colorado. If this is a 1st Per Se or DUI conviction the driver must have served at least 30 days for the alcohol related restraint or if the driver has
their driving privilege revoked for an alcohol related restraint that is longer than a year in length and have already served at least one year for the alcohol related restraint. The driver must also have satisfied all reinstatement requirements (other than time).
If I have an interlock restricted license, what happens if I drive a vehicle not equipped with an interlock device?
If an Interlock-restricted driver drives a non-interlock equipped vehicle or circumvents the function of their interlock device, the driver’s license can be revoked for one year of no driving.
How much does Interlock cost?
Each vendor’s price may vary but the annual estimate is under $1000 per year.
Who pays for the interlock device? Is there an assistance program?
The driver pays the full cost of the interlock system. However, there is am assistance program for first offenders who cannot afford the device. The Department of Revenue will pay up to $400 of the Interlock expenses. The driver must be a first offender over the age of 21 at the time of the violation and the driver’s Federal Adjsted Gross Income must be under 300% of the HHS Poverty Guidelines ($11,170 of a single filer and $15,130 for a Joint filer in 2012).
After the Interlock device is installed, does it need to be serviced?
Yes, the device must be brought in for servicing every 60 days. If a driver fails to bring their device in for servicing their license will be suspended with no driving until the device is serviced.