Participating in the Ignition Interlock Program

The Ignition Interlock program is for drivers with impaired driving convictions. It involves installing a breathalyzer in your vehicle that prevents it from moving if alcohol is detected in your system.

Who participates in this program?

You may be required to participate in the Ignition Interlock Program in one of three ways:

• The Driver Control Board has made it a condition for you to drive.
• The court has ordered you to use ignition interlock while driving.
• You applied to the Driver Control Board for early reinstatement of driving privileges with the condition of using an ignition interlock device.

How do ignition interlock devices work?

An Ignition Interlock device is installed near the driver's seat of your vehicle and is monitored by the Driver Control Board to ensure compliance.

To start driving, you must blow into the device. If your blood alcohol concentration is below the preset limit of 0.02, the vehicle will start. While driving, you’ll also be required to provide breath samples at random intervals.

If your blood alcohol concentration is over the 0.02 limit or you’ve failed to provide a sample, the vehicle will not start. If you fail to provide a sample or your blood alcohol concentration exceeds the limit, the device will:

• issue a warning; and
• record the event for monitoring purposes.

How can I apply to have my driver’s licence reinstated?

Disqualified drivers can apply to the Driver Control Board to get their driving privileges reinstated, following set timelines, unless a court document states otherwise:

1st offence

You can apply right away. However, you’ll be required to participate in the Ignition Interlock Program for a minimum of 6 months, starting after installation and passing your road test, even if your disqualification ends sooner.

2nd offence (within 5 years)

You can apply after serving the first 3 months of your court-imposed driving prohibition. You must participate for a minimum of 30 months, even if your disqualification period ends sooner.

3rd offence (within 5 years)

You can apply after serving the first 6 months of your driving prohibition. You must participate in the program for a minimum of 60 months.

Note that different mandatory wait times may be applied based on court orders.

How do I have the ignition interlock device removed?

To exit the program and have the device removed, your Ignition Interlock Program report must show no violations or infractions for the last 6 months. Removal must be approved by the Driver Control Board prior to the device being removed from the vehicle.

If you have violations in the last 6 months, the Driver Control Board may extend your program and give you a new end date.

Frequent infractions or high blood alcohol concentration readings may result in:

• a meeting with the Driver Control Board;
• an extension of the program; and
• cancellation of your conditional licence.

The driver is held responsible for all violations or infractions on the report.

Program costs

You are responsible for all installation and maintenance fees for the device. The device must also be inspected regularly by the service provider who’ll provide related information, including fees, when you register.