What You Need to Know About Maryland's Ignition Interlock Program

If you've been charged with a DUI or DWI in Maryland, you may be required-or may choose-to participate in the Ignition Interlock Program to retain your driving privileges. Here's what every driver should understand about this program, when it's required, and how it could help you get back on the road.

What Is the Ignition Interlock Program?

The Ignition Interlock Program is administered by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). It requires drivers to install a device that tests their breath for alcohol before allowing them to start the car. It also periodically requires retesting while the vehicle is in operation.

Who Is Eligible or Required to Enroll?

You may be required or eligible to participate in the program if:

You refused a chemical test under Maryland's implied consent law
You were convicted of DUI or DWI under Transportation Article Section 21-902
You want to avoid or modify a license suspension after an alcohol-related offense
You are under 21 and violated Maryland's zero-tolerance BAC limit
You've had multiple DUI offenses

Drivers can sometimes voluntarily elect the interlock program in lieu of a suspended license, especially if they are ineligible for a restricted license due to a test refusal.

How the Program Works

To participate:

You must enroll through an MVA-approved vendor.
The device is installed in your vehicle at your expense.
You must blow into the device to start the vehicle.
You'll be subject to rolling retests while driving.
The system logs all data, which is monitored monthly.

Duration of Participation

The length of time you must stay in the program varies:

6 months for a breath result between .08 and .15
1 year for a second offense or refusal of a breath test
3 years for multiple offenses or aggravating factors (e.g., high BAC, serious accident)

The MVA may extend the period if you fail tests, miss appointments, or tamper with the device.

Benefits of the Program

Participation can:

Avoid total license suspension
Help maintain employment and daily responsibilities
Reduce court penalties in some plea negotiations
Satisfy requirements for probation before judgment (PBJ)

It also signals proactive behavior to courts and prosecutors, which can influence outcomes favorably.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

If you:

Skip required service visits
Try to tamper with or bypass the device
Fail breath tests

...you risk being removed from the program and having your full suspension or revocation reinstated.

Interlock for Refusals: A Legal Workaround

Maryland Transportation Article 16-205.1 prohibits modification or restrictive licenses after a chemical test refusal-unless the driver participates in the Ignition Interlock Program for at least one year.

This is often the only path back to legal driving for refusal cases.

Legal Guidance Is Key

Choosing to enter the Ignition Interlock Program can have significant consequences-both legally and financially. Before enrolling, it's wise to consult with a Maryland DUI lawyer to explore all your options and develop the best defense strategy.

FAQs

Q: How much does the ignition interlock device cost?

A: Installation typically costs around $100-$150, and monthly fees range from $70 to $100. These are paid directly to the vendor.

Q: Can I drive any vehicle with the device installed?

A: No. You may only operate vehicles equipped with an interlock device that's reported to the MVA.

Q: What happens if I fail a breath test?

A: The car won't start, and the failure will be logged. Multiple failures can result in program extension or termination.

Q: Is the interlock program mandatory after a first DUI?

A: Not always, but it may be required based on BAC level, refusal, or if you want to avoid a suspension.

Q: Can commercial drivers participate?

A: Commercial drivers are generally ineligible to operate CMVs with an interlock device. A DUI offense may disqualify your CDL altogether based on current Maryland law.

Facing DUI charges in Maryland? Contact FrizWoods today to find out whether the Ignition Interlock Program can help you maintain your driving privileges.

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