What is California’s Ignition Interlock Device Pilot Program?

In July 1, 2010 California legislation put in place an ignition interlock device pilot program to provide the DMV and state legislators with information about drunk driving in order for them to evaluate the effectiveness of an ignition interlock device and the prevention of drunk driving. In states where ignition interlock devices are mandatory, there is evidence that drunk driving arrests and related accidents have decreased, and repeat offenders are especially lower.  That is why if an individual receives a DUI in one of the four California pilot counties: Alameda, Los Angeles, Sacramento, and Tulare, he/she will be required to install an ignition interlock device, even if the offender doesn’t reside in said counties.

The Ignition Interlock Device Pilot Program was put in effect by legislation on July 1, 2010 and will stay valid through December 31, 2015. If the numbers fair out and the data shows that mandatory IID units decrease the number of DUI arrests, accidents and deaths, the program will most likely go statewide.

An ignition interlock device works by not allowing you to operate your vehicle if alcohol is detected in your breath. The device is wired into your vehicle and you must use it every time you start your vehicle. To operate the ignition interlock device you must provide a breath sample by blowing into the device. Your breath will be analyzed for alcohol, and your vehicle will only start if your alcohol levels are under the limits predetermined by authorities. If your test shows you have alcohol on your breath, your vehicle will not start and you will not be able to try again for several minutes.

The pilot program for ignition interlock devices will continue to be in effect for more than a year in the counties of Alameda, Los Angeles, Sacramento, and Tulare. If you are charged with driving under the influence of alcohol in one of those counties you will be required to have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle. These ignition interlock devices will help the DMV and California legislators track the efficiency and efficacy of ignition interlock devices in preventing driving under the influence of alcohol.

Smart Start of California is a proponent of the IID Pilot Program and welcomes safe driving to all Californians by offering its clients numerous locations statewide, 24 hour bilingual assistance, and low monthly rates. Contact a Smart Start representative for a quote and to see if you are eligible for a free IID installation.