How Can I Avoid an Alcohol Violation in My Ignition Interlock Device?

Your Interlock Device can record all types of violations that could occur. That’s why one of the most common questions we get is regarding how you can avoid an alcohol violation on your Ignition Interlock Device.

Your Interlock will detect even small traces of alcohol because of its accurate, alcohol-specific fuel cell technology. For instance, your Device can tell what your exact breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) level is, or if the attempted test was even performed by a human.

Some people claim that they receive violations from their device by accident. Interlock Devices with fuel cell technology do not produce false readings. Some products that we use every day have a low amount of alcohol, such as mouth sprays. Therefore, when you get in your car and take your initial test after using mouth spray, the Interlock Device will detect that alcohol in the product.

Be Smart to Avoid an Alcohol Violation on Your Ignition Interlock

Smart Start recommends you swish your mouth with water before taking any tests. Doing this will help the alcohol from the mouth spray, or other products, dissipate at a faster rate. If your results indicate a fast decline in BrAC level, this can help confirm that you were not consuming alcohol at the time the reading was recorded.

When clients receive violations during their program, it is usually because alcohol is present during an initial or rolling retest. Violations can also occur if a client skips tests, has a BrAC level result at or above the state fail level during a rolling retest or the Interlock Device detects circumvention. Circumvention usually means the head unit is disconnected while the client is driving or someone is attempting to start the vehicle without providing a proper breath test.

A Friendly Tip

You can check your violation points on your Interlock Device by pressing the # key, then 3 on the keypad.

Did you receive a violation and felt as if it was an accident? Call our 24/7/365 customer care center at 800-831-3299 for assistance.

Do you need to install an Interlock Device in your area? Call Smart Start at 800-831-3299 or fill out our quick and simple online form for a quote.