May 15, 2025 | DUI
The penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) or operating a vehicle while impaired (OVI) include fines, jail time, and other punishments. The court may order the offender to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in all vehicles they drive. For some individuals, an IID can be a costly DUI penalty for driving under the influence.
What Is an Ignition Interlock Device?
Ohio law defines an ignition interlock device (IID) as a device that connects a breath test to a vehicle’s motor. Generally, IIDs are mounted on a vehicle’s dashboard. The driver must blow into the machine before starting the vehicle.
An IID performs a Breath Alcohol Content (BAC) test. If the machine detects alcohol in the person’s system, the vehicle will not start. While the vehicle is operating, the IID will request random tests to ensure the driver is not drinking while driving. If the IID detects alcohol or the driver does not provide a breath sample, the system will instruct the driver to pull over to stop the vehicle.
The machine stores the data from the breath tests and uploads it to the provider. The data can then be sent to the court to determine if the driver follows the restrictions or commits an interlock violation. The driver is responsible for paying to install and maintain the IID, which can become costly depending on how long the device must remain in the vehicle.
What Happens if I Violate Ohio Ignition Interlock Device Laws?
You can violate the requirements for an ignition interlock device in several ways. Examples of IID violations include:
- The device detects alcohol that exceeds the preset limit
- Having someone take the breath test for you
- Operating a motor vehicle that is not equipped with an interlock device
- Multiple failed attempts
- Tampering with or trying to circumvent the device
- Failing to install an IID according to a court order
The penalties for violating ignition interlock device laws can be costly. The court can double the length of the driver’s suspension and the requirement to install an IID. The court may also impose fines and jail time. In some cases, the person’s driver’s license could be revoked. The penalties depend on the facts of the case.
When Are Ignition Interlock Devices Required for DUI Convictions in Ohio?
Judges may order IID installation for many types of impaired driving offenses. Examples of offenses that could result in the installation of an ignition interlock device include, but are not limited to:
- First-time DUI offenders
- Underage DUI
- Second and subsequent OVI offenses
- Refusal to take a blood test, urine test, or breathalyzer after a DUI arrest
The law requires installing an ignition interlock device for offenders convicted of a second or subsequent DUI within 10 years. Many factors determine whether a judge will order you to install an IID, including your BAC at the time of the arrest, prior DUI convictions, and aggravating factors.
How Does Annie’s Law Impact the Ohio Laws for Ignition Interlock Devices?
Annie’s Law, passed in Ohio in 2017 in honor of Annie Rooney, who tragically died in a drunk driving accident in 2013, aims to strengthen DUI laws and reduce related accidents and fatalities. The law increases penalties for DUI convictions, including longer license suspensions—up to one to three years for a first offense and one to seven years for a second offense. It also extends the lookback period for prior DUI convictions from six to ten years.
Annie’s Law changes ignition interlock device (IID) requirements, allowing first-time offenders to avoid jail time by installing an IID and granting unlimited driving privileges for a first offense and limited privileges for second or third offenses. If IID laws are violated, however, the court can reinstate jail time and revoke driving privileges. This law helps keep impaired drivers off the road while allowing offenders to maintain necessary driving privileges.
Get Advice About a DUI Charge or IID Violation
Ignition interlock devices (IIDs) are an important tool in Ohio’s efforts to reduce impaired driving. While they provide an alternative to jail time for DUI offenders, violating IID laws can result in severe penalties, including extended suspensions, fines, and additional legal consequences.
If you need help, many DUI attorneys in Dayton, Ohio offer free consultations. Reach out to a criminal defense attorney about your case today and get the information you need to make an informed decision on how to proceed.
Contact the Dayton DUI Attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers For Help Today
For more information, contact the DUI attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers, give us a call today at (937) 531-0435 or visit us at our Dayton Law Office.
Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers – Dayton
130 West Second Street #17-129,
Dayton, OH 45402
(937) 531-0435
