First Offenders: As of July 1, 2000, a first offender charged and convicted of driving while impaired with a BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) of .16 or above is required by law to drive only an ignition interlock equipped vehicle. Judges may also choose to require the interlock for first offenders convicted with less than a .16 BAC.
Length of Requirement: First offenders must have the device for one year, either during suspension or afterwards when applying for a regular drivers license with the DMV.
Interlock Verification Paperwork: Some judges may require the first offender to show proof of install (from the interlock vendor/technician) prior to issuing the limited driving privilege. However, other judges may not require this action. DMV requires all offenders to have vendor's verification of install and/or verification of time used prior to restoration.
Installation of the Interlock: If the ignition interlock is a part of the DWI offender's requirements to drive, the person may call Monitech, Inc. at 1-800-521-4246 to schedule an appointment for installation. Just a friendly reminder though, in many cases, installation verification is required before a privilege is granted.
When Should a Person Call?: Appointments can normally be scheduled within one to three weeks, sometimes four. The first offender, if conviction is probable, may wish to call four weeks in advance of court date. By calling early, an appointment can be more easily scheduled to coincide with conviction and help reduce or prevent interruption of the driving privilege.
