I got a DWI, when can I drive again?
Whether your license was revoked or canceled as inimical (dangerous) to public safety, you may still be able to drive again soon. If, that is, you qualify for the Minnesota Ignition Interlock Program.
Ignition Inter-what?
An Ignition Interlock is a small device that is installed in your vehicle. It looks like a cell phone. The device interrupts the car’s ignition system. In order to start the car, you must blow into it and hum a like you’re playing a kazoo. Basically, it’s like having a small breathalyzer machine in the car with you. If the machine detects any alcohol, then your car won’t start. If it doesn’t detect any alcohol, then your car will start and you can drive away. But, you have to blow into the machine every 15 minutes.
Sounds great, how do I sign up?
First you have to qualify for the program. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) has a simple chart explaining the eligibility and a good explanation of the pros and cons of participating in the ignition interlock program. Plus you can see the program terms you must agree to up front.
Who provides the ignition interlock device?
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety administers the program. There are several private vendors who provide ignition interlock services as part of the program.
This sounds expensive…
It is. The program is not a good fit for everyone. Initially you must enroll and pay for device installation in your car ($90 at the time of this article), then you pay monthly service fees ($60 – $125), a removal fee ($50) and any lock out fees ($50 per instance).
Additionally, program participants must meet other requirements such as:
- Meet all requirements for license reinstatement and pay the reinstatement fee ($680)
- Own or drive a vehicle with valid insurance
- Pay any outstanding court fees or child support
- Take and pass the written DWI driver’s license exam at a testing location
- Apply for a new license ($24+)
- Provide evidence of enrollment in a qualifying treatment facility or a discharge summary
Wait a minute, do I have to participate?
Not necessarily. The program started in 2008 in Hennepin and Beltrami Counties. Tom Robertson of Minnesota Public Radio reported the program initially met with mixed reviews. But, as of July 1, 2009 the ignition interlock program became mandatory for certain repeat DWI offenders. As of May 2010 an ignition interlock bill began the process of circulating the Senate and House. Now over 400 people have participated in the program. 45 States now have some sort of ignition interlock program in place, many of them involve mandatory participation.
The ignition interlock program appears to be here to stay for the foreseeable future.