Installed Ignition Interlock System (Above); Driver Properly Using Ignition Interlock Device (Bottom)
In May 2016 Governor Tom Wolf signed Act 33 into Pennsylvania Law. The act allows some individuals convicted of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Controlled Substances, whose licenses have been revoked or suspended, to apply for an Ignition Interlock Limited License (“IILL”). The ignition interlock system is leased and placed in the vehicle by an authorized vendor and the device costs between $900-$1300 per year. Once in the vehicle, the driver is required to blow into the device before starting the vehicle and sporadically throughout its’ operation. If alcohol is detected, the vehicle will not start or will prevent the driver from continuing operation.
Under the initial law enacted in 2016, only individuals charged with a second or subsequent DUI offense would be required to apply for and install an ignition interlock device. Beginning on August 25, 2017, rather than waiting the length of their license suspension to be served, first time offenders will now be permitted to drive immediately following the installation of the device. Persons who refuse to submit to chemical testing and are consequently convicted of DUI will be eligible to apply for an ignition interlock device after serving six months their suspension.
As of August 25, 2017, individuals currently driving with an ignition interlock system /license and whose one-year period ends on or after August 25, 2017, must provide a declaration of compliance from their ignition interlock vender to PennDOT to obtain an unrestricted license. The declaration of compliance must insure form filled out by the vendor insures that the driver has not had any incidents or violations in the two consecutive months prior to the date the form is filled out.
The additions and changes to the law will make the roads safer by keeping intoxicated individuals off the road while also allowing eligible offenders to be back on the road sooner.
Certain violations and convictions effect an individual’s eligibility to receive an ignition interlock license. Thus, if you have been charged or convicted of DUI (or a related charge) it is important to consult with an attorney to discuss your eligibility and options under the current state of the law.
Above: Ignition Interlock Limited License Application (Form 9108 via PennDOT)
4 comments:
What’s the penalties if you blow into your ignition interlock with alcohol on your breath.
I’m not sure if there is a penalty for merely blowing into the device with alcohol on your breath (other than the car not starting) but if you are asking what happens if you are caught operating the vehicle with a BAC over .025%, the answer is that if you are convicted there is a mandatory minimum 90 day jail sentence, a fine of $1000, and an additional suspension pursuant to 75 Pa.C.S.A. § 3808.
Understanding how ignition interlock devices work and their role in helping suspended drivers regain their mobility in Pennsylvania is vital information. Your post provides a clear and insightful explanation, shedding light on a solution that benefits both safety and individual circumstances. Thanks for sharing this valuable insight!
Thank you!
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