What Is an Ignition Interlock Device and Do I Need One in Colorado?
An ignition interlock device, or IID, is a breathalyzer installed in your car. You have to blow into it and pass before your car will start. In Colorado, you're required to have one if you want early reinstatement of your license after a DUI, or if you were convicted with a high BAC, refused testing, or have a prior DUI or DWAI on your record.
How Does an Ignition Interlock Device Actually Work?
Before you can start your car, you provide a breath sample into the device. If your BAC is 0.025 or higher, the car will not start. This threshold is much lower than the 0.08 legal limit for driving, since the goal is to keep any detectable alcohol out of the equation entirely.
Once your car is running, the device does not stop checking. It requires random breath samples at intervals while you drive, known as rolling retests. This is meant to stop two things: drinking after you've already started driving, and having a sober person blow into the device for you so you can drive after drinking.
How Long Do You Have to Keep the Device Installed?
How long you need the device depends on the details of your case.
For a standard first offense, the device generally stays installed for the remainder of your suspension period, though you may qualify for earlier removal if you complete a clean compliance period with no missed or failed tests.
For an extreme BAC of 0.15 or higher, a test refusal, or a repeat DUI or DWAI offense, Colorado requires the device for a full 2 years, with no option to remove it early.
[Attorney note: exact minimum timeframes for standard first-offense cases can shift with DMV policy updates. Please confirm current figures before this section goes live.]
What Does an Ignition Interlock Device Cost?
Costs vary by provider, but you can expect to pay for both installation and a monthly lease. Some providers offer free or reduced installation. Monthly costs, which usually include required calibration checks, typically run in the range of $70 to $150. Over the full length of a program, total costs can range from around $1,000 for a shorter requirement to $2,500 or more for a 2-year requirement.
If cost is a concern, Colorado offers financial assistance for drivers who qualify based on income. It's worth asking your provider or the DMV about this option before assuming you can't afford the device.
What Happens If You Fail a Test?
Colorado-approved ignition interlock devices include both a camera and GPS tracking, so results can be verified. If you fail multiple tests within a year, the Colorado DMV can extend both your license suspension and how long you're required to keep the device installed. Attempting to bypass, tamper with, or trick the device carries its own separate consequences and can undo the progress you've already made toward getting your license back.