Published on 11/17/2025, 2:00:00 PM

What do I do if they are trying to remove me from the ignition interlock program for violations

If they are trying to remove you from the ignition interlock program you must act fast. Request an OAH hearing by the deadline on your MVA notice, gather device records, and get a lawyer who handles interlock violations. It's always our goal to keep clients in the program so they don't lose credit time or face a hard suspension.

Step 1: File your hearing request immediately

Your MVA letter will list a strict deadline. Missing it can mean automatic removal and a return to your underlying suspension/revocation. We can file the request, calendar deadlines, and start evidence preservation the same day. To understand how the process works, see our page on MVA Hearings.

Step 2: Request Discovery from the Office of Administrative Hearings

The ignition interlock program receives data from your your vendor (e.g., Intoxalock, Smart Start, Draeger) for:

• Full data logs for the relevant dates (initial attempts and rolling retests).

• Camera images/video if your device is camera-equipped.

• Service/monitoring records showing calibrations, downloads, and any reschedules.

  Learn what counts as a "violation" on our Ignition Interlock Violations (Blog).

Step 3: Understand what's at stake

• Each violation can add a month to your term.
• Four or more can trigger removal and bring back your original suspension/revocation.
• If removed, drivers usually must wait at least 30 days and then start the full original term over - often without credit for time already served.
  This is why challenging removal before it happens is critical. For license outcomes after DUI/DWI, see DUI License Reinstatement.

Step 4: Defenses we use at the OAH

We don't fight everything, only what moves the ALJ:

• Misattribution: someone else used the vehicle/device (supported by images, access logs, or witness statements).
• Device error or calibration issues: gaps in service, faulty sensors, or documented malfunctions.
• Mouth alcohol/medical explanations: timing patterns and clean rolling tests after an initial blip.
• Notice and scheduling errors: missed monitoring tied to vendor rescheduling or short notice.
• Vehicle inoperable or in the shop: repair orders and tow receipts.
  For a deeper dive on program basics, check Ignition Interlock Program: What to Expect.

Step 5: What to do in the next 7 days

• Speak with an attorney
• File the hearing request (we'll handle it and confirm receipt).
• Appear at your hearing

Step 6: If removal already happened

You may still be able to re-enroll after a minimum down-time, but most drivers must repeat the full original term. We'll review whether a late challenge or new enrollment strategy is the fastest way to get you legal again. See our guide on Removal from Ignition Interlock.

How we help

• Calendar and file the OAH hearing request on time.
• Obtain and analyze vendor data, calibration records, and images.
• Build targeted exhibits and witness statements that explain anomalies.
• Present the case to the ALJ to avoid removal, limit extensions, or secure reinstatement into the program.
  If your ignition interlock status is on the line, start with a quick call. Read more about related issues on our main DUI page or contact us to get your hearing on the calendar today.