Maryland law allows for anyone in the state who has been charged with a DWI to install an Ignition Interlock Device instead of having their license suspended or revoked. This includes those charged with a DWI for the first-time.
According to the Maryland Department of Motor Vehicles (MVA) website, if you choose to participate, you will be enrolled in the Ignition Interlock Program for:
- 180 days, if you submitted to a test indicating an alcohol concentration of at least 0.08 but less than 0.15,
- 1 year if you submitted to a test indicating an alcohol concentration of 0.15 or higher, or
- 1 year if you refused to submit to the test.
If you successfully complete the Ignition Interlock Program for your Administrative Per Se sanctions, you may receive credit toward future Ignition Interlock Program enrollment arising from this same incident.
As of October 1, 2016 under Noah’s Law, drivers are required to participate in Maryland’s Ignition Interlock Program for the following convictions:
- Driving under the influence (DUI);
- Driving while impaired (DWI) while transporting a minor under the age of 16;
- Driving while intoxicated with an initial breathalyzer test refusal; and
- Homicide or life-threatening injury by motor vehicle while DUI or DWI.
Visit the Maryland MVA website for more information.