Kentucky State Laws and IID Requirements
The Kentucky Ignition Interlock Program (KIIP) allows some DUI offenders to regain driving privileges if they agree to install an ignition interlock device from an approved provider, like ADS. Even first-time offenders convicted of an alcohol-based driving offense risk a license suspension of at least 6 months, along with other penalties. In some cases, the license suspension term may be shortened if the offender enrolls in the KIIP.
The KY Ignition Interlock Program
As of July 1, 2020, the rules surrounding DUI-related license suspensions changed. Now, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) issues a static suspension term based on the offense. This term can be shortened if the offender installs an IID. This guide will go over the interlock policies in the state of Kentucky.
What Happens if I Get a DUI in Kentucky?
First Offense
- License suspended for 6 months (can be reduced to four months if offender goes 90 days with no violations and enrolls in the Kentucky IID program)
- 90 days of an alcohol or substance abuse program
- Fines between $200 and $500
- Possible jail time of 48 hours to 30 days
- May be able to regain driving privileges by installing an IID from a state-approved provider
Second Offense (within 10 years of first offense)
- License suspended for 18 months (can be reduced to 12 months if offender goes 120 days with no violations and enrolls in KIIP)
- One year of an alcohol or substance abuse program
- Fines between $300 and $500
- Possible jail time of 7 days to 6 months
- May be able to regain driving privileges by installing an IID from a state-approved provider
Third Offense (within 10 years of prior offenses)
- License suspended for 36 months (can be reduced to 18 months if offender goes 120 days with no violations and enrolls in the Kentucky IID program)
- One year of an alcohol or substance abuse program
- Fines between $500 and $1,000
- Possible jail time of 30 days to 12 months
- May be able to regain driving privileges by installing an IID from a state-approved provider
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How Do I Get an Ignition Interlock License in Kentucky?
Some Kentucky drivers are allowed to regain driving privileges during their license suspension period, by enrolling in the KIIP and installing an ignition interlock device. They must also meet other criteria, including:
- Apply directly to KYTC to enroll in KIIP using Ignition Interlock Application, TC 94-175
- Complete any treatment, jail, or community service obligations
- Provide proof of a valid Kentucky vehicle registration in their name, or a notarized letter from the owner authorizing installation of an interlock device
- Show proof of appropriate automobile insurance and any other requested documents
- Pay a $40 reinstatement fee
- Eligibility is based on the offender’s driving record from the past 5 years, and potential participants may be disqualified based on the contents of their driving record
To have their license suspension term shortened, KIIP participants must be free of interlock violations for 90 or 120 days. The length of time depends on their offense.
Ignition Interlock Devices in Kentucky
Kentucky’s interlock program, KIIP, is compliance-based. In Kentucky, compliant offenders are eligible to have their license suspension reduced if they have no violations for 90 or 120 days. Violations include test failures, attempts to tamper with the device, missed tests, or missed calibration or maintenance appointments. A violation causes the countdown to start over from day one. Kentucky devices are required to have a camera, so attempts to hide from the camera or obscure the camera are also considered a violation.
Ignition Interlock Device Cost in Kentucky
Kentucky requires offenders to cover the cost of installing and leasing their state-approved interlock device. The devices must be approved by the KYTC, the monitoring authority in Kentucky. Any failed tests or attempts to tamper with the device will be reported to the monitoring authority. Devices cost between $100 and $150 to install, and ADS interlocks cost between $2.50 and $3.50 per day to lease. ADS interlocks are easy-to-use and feature bilingual prompts in English and Spanish.
Kentucky does offer financial assistance to eligible offenders who cannot afford interlock costs. To request financial support, offenders should fill out the KIIP Affordability Application and submit it to the KYTC.
Readers of this website should contact their attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter. Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation.