Ignition Interlock Device Requirements After A DWI In Louisiana

If you have been convicted of a DWI in Louisiana — or in some cases even arrested for one and before your — you will be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle as a condition of your sentence before your driving privileges are reinstated. For many people this requirement comes as a surprise, and navigating the process of compliance can be confusing and frustrating. Understanding what an ignition interlock device is, when it is required, how long you must have it installed, and what happens if something goes wrong are all critical pieces of information that can affect your ability to drive and your legal standing going forward.

I have helped clients throughout Shreveport, Bossier City, and Northwest Louisiana navigate DWI consequences including ignition interlock requirements for more than 30 years. If you have questions about your specific situation, contact me today.

What Is An Ignition Interlock Device?

An ignition interlock device, or IID, is a breathalyzer unit that is hardwired into your vehicle’s ignition system. Before your vehicle will start, you must blow into the device and register a BAC below the programmed threshold — typically 0.02% depending on the program requirements. The device also requires random rolling retests while the vehicle is in motion to ensure you have not consumed alcohol after starting the car.

All data recorded by the device — including test results, any failed tests, and attempts to tamper with or circumvent the device — is logged and reported to the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles and your probation officer if applicable. A failed test or tampering attempt can result in serious consequences including revocation of your restricted driving privileges and additional criminal charges.

When Is An Ignition Interlock Device Required In Louisiana?

Louisiana law requires or may require ignition interlock device installation under the following circumstances:

• First offense DWI — IID required as a condition of license reinstatement sentence and possibly
• First offense DWI with any BAC — IID will be required as a condition of a hardship or restricted license during suspension
• Second offense DWI — IID required for a minimum of one to four years upon conviction and possibly as a condition of reinstatement
• Third offense DWI — IID required upon reinstatement for an extended period after release from jail. remove the rest
• Fourth or subsequent offense — IID required for reinstatement if license is ever restored upon release from jail.
• Refusal to submit to chemical testing — IID may be required as a condition of any restricted driving privileges during suspension

The court may also order IID installation as a condition of probation even in cases where it is not otherwise mandated by law.

How Long Must The IID Remain Installed?

The length of time you are required to maintain the ignition interlock device depends on your offense level and your compliance during the monitoring period:

• First offense — typically six months to one year
• Second offense — one to four years
• Third offense — two or more years
• Fourth or subsequent offense — extended periods determined by the court

If you fail a breath test, attempt to tamper with the device, or miss a required service appointment, the monitoring period may be extended. Consistent compliance throughout the required period is essential to having the device removed on schedule.

Who Pays For The Ignition Interlock Device?

All costs associated with the ignition interlock device are the responsibility of the driver. These costs include:

• Installation fee — typically $70 to $150 depending on the provider
• Monthly monitoring and leasing fee — typically $60 to $100 per month
• Calibration and service fees — required at regular intervals
• Removal fee — charged when the device is removed at the end of the required period

Louisiana does have a provision for low-income individuals who cannot afford IID costs. I can advise you on whether you may qualify for reduced fees and how to apply.

What Happens If I Fail An Ignition Interlock Test?

A failed IID test — meaning you attempt to start your vehicle and register a BAC above the threshold — is recorded and reported. Depending on the circumstances and how many failures occur, the consequences can include:

• Extension of your IID monitoring period
• Notification to your probation officer
• A probation violation hearing
• Revocation of your restricted driving privileges
• Additional criminal charges in serious cases

It is important to understand that certain substances other than alcohol — including some mouthwashes, breath sprays, and foods — can occasionally trigger a false positive. If you believe a failed test was the result of a false positive, contact me immediately so we can document the situation and respond appropriately.

Your Future Deserves a Powerful Defense

Speak With Us Today 318-990-1089

Get Answers Today

Serving Shreveport, Bossier City, And Northwest Louisiana

I assist clients navigating ignition interlock requirements and DWI consequences throughout Caddo Parish, Bossier Parish, Lincoln Parish, Webster Parish, Jackson Parish, Vernon Parish, and Natchitoches Parish. If you have questions about your IID requirements or are facing consequences related to a failed test or compliance issue, contact me right away.

Contact A.J. Hodges, IV About Your Ignition Interlock Requirements

Call 318-990-1089 to reach my Shreveport office. You can also contact me online. I am here to help you understand your obligations and protect your rights throughout the process.