California adopted an ignition interlock device (IID) program across the state recently. This program requires most drivers convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) to install an IID on their vehicles. Can you drive another car without an interlock after a DUI conviction in Los Angeles?
You are not legally allowed to operate a vehicle without a DUI in most cases. Driving without an IID could result in a violation of your probation. You may face numerous penalties for avoiding an IID. Find out more by checking out this article.
Facts About California’s IID Program
California’s interlock device pilot program began in 2019. Currently, it is set to continue through at least 2025. This program requires many drivers to install IIDs in their vehicles after a DUI conviction. You may not have to install an IID after a first-time DUI. However, California courts require drivers to install an IID for:
- One year after a second DUI conviction.
- Two years after a third DUI conviction.
- Three years after a fourth DUI conviction or for a first felony DUI conviction.
Some first-time DUI offenders choose to install an IID. This is because you may avoid a license suspension by installing an IID, which allows you to keep operating your vehicle. If you are required to install an IID, you must go to an approved installation company.
The company will install an IID on all vehicles you own or regularly operate. The company provides instruction on the usage of IIDs. You will also receive paperwork to take to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV may then issue you an IID-restricted license, legally allowing you to drive after a DUI conviction.
Results of Driving without an IID in Los Angeles
Drivers convicted of a DUI typically end up on probation for three to five years. While on probation, you must obey all regulations handed down by the court. The use of an IID is generally part of your probation in Los Angeles.
The court uses IIDs because they measure your blood alcohol content (BAC). You must breathe into this device each time you want to operate your vehicle. If the IID detects alcohol in your system, it will not allow your vehicle to turn on. The IID also requires you to conduct “rolling” tests as you operate your vehicle. It records any “failures” and reports this information. These devices are designed to prevent drivers from operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol.
This means that driving a car without an interlock may violate the terms of your probation. Probation violations are very serious in California. You could face legal action if you disobey court orders by driving a vehicle without an IID. The court may:
- Require you to use an IID for a longer period of time.
- Add additional requirements to your probation.
- Lengthen your time on probation.
- Revoke your probation.
As you can see, these effects are serious. Drivers who repeatedly operate vehicles without an IID could even have their IID-restricted driving privileges revoked. This would lead to the suspension of your license. You may not legally operate a vehicle at all if you have a suspended license.
Exceptions to IID Requirements in California
Note that there are exceptions for IID usage if you are operating a vehicle for your employer. You may operate a vehicle for work with your employer’s approval, as long as you have an IID-restricted driver’s license. You must give your employer a Notice to Employers Ignition Interlock Restriction (DL 923).
Your employer might then choose to allow you to drive a work vehicle. You may only operate this vehicle in the scope of your employment. You may not drive it around outside of work to avoid using an IID in Los Angeles.
You can get help if you were accused of driving without an IID in Los Angeles. A DUI lawyer could take steps to help you dispute this charge. Your lawyer may help you avoid a conviction for a probation violation in California.
Find Out if You Can Drive Another Vehicle without an Interlock
You cannot legally drive a car without an interlock in Los Angeles in most situations. However, you may be able to operate a work vehicle in some cases. Discuss the specific uses of an IID with a Los Angeles DUI lawyer today. You may reach us by completing our online contact form. You could also call us at (310) 896-2724.
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