Louisiana State Laws and Requirements

Louisiana Ignition Interlock Devices

Louisiana has strict DWI laws in place, to deter drinking and driving. As of 2015, license suspension periods for DWI offenders were lengthened. Penalties include fines, jail time, and community service along with the license suspension.

State Interlock Regulations

Get a Free Quote

Complete the form to get a personalized, free quote.
Rather Speak with an Advisor Now?
Call us at (888) 786-7384 (888) 786-7384
By clicking the button above, you consent to one or more of the listed businesses calling and texting at the telephone number provided to encourage the purchase or lease of DUI-related products and services, including through the use of automated technology, artificial voice and/or pre-recorded means. Consent is not a condition of purchase.
× US Court Assessments formerly New Directions, Intoxalock, Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions, LLC, Restorify, DUI.org, DUICare

Table of Contents

Ignition Interlock Program in LA

Louisiana institutes license suspension as a mandatory penalty for all DWI offenders. Some offenders may be able to regain their driving privileges if they install an ignition interlock from an approved provider.

What happens if I get a DWI in Louisiana?

1st Offense

  • License suspended for 365 days
  • Classroom course may be required
  • Up to $1,000 in fines
  • Jail time of 10 days to 6 months
  • May need to install an IID
  • In lieu of jail time, community service or house arrest could be mandated

2nd Offense

  • Jail term of 30 days to six months
  • May be required to enroll in a driver improvement course or substance abuse treatment program
  • Fines of $750 to $1,000
  • Driver’s license suspended for two years
  • Must install an IID for six months (and possibly longer)
  • In lieu of jail time, community service or house arrest could be mandated

3rd Offense

  • Driver’s license suspended for 3 years minimum (more if BAC is > .20)
  • May be required to enroll in a driver improvement course or substance abuse treatment program
  • Jail term of one to five years
  • Fines up to $2,000
  • IID required during suspension period, and possibly longer
  • In lieu of jail time, community service or house arrest could be mandated

What happens if I fail to complete or refuse to submit to a DWI test in Louisiana?

There are still consequences for drivers who refuse to take a BAC test. They risk penalties including a one year license suspension, and their license will be immediately seized. If the driver has refused a test within the past 10 years, the suspension period increases to two years and they will be required to install an IID for six months. Some offenders are able to qualify for a hardship license if they install an IID from an approved provider.

Regaining Driving Privileges in Louisiana

Louisiana allows some offenders to regain driving privileges during their suspension period. The drivers must agree to install an ignition interlock device and also need to meet a variety of criteria. This criteria includes:

list
  • Provide proof of interlock installation from a state-approved provider
  • Must pay any required fines
  • Need to show proof of SR-22 insurance
  • May need to enroll in or complete any mandated community service or treatment programs

Other criteria may be required depending on the specifics of the incident.

ADS Interlock Devices in LA

When an interlock device is required by state law, all data is reported directly to the state’s monitoring authority. This is why states approve certain providers, and why an IID must be installed by an approved provider. ADS is an approved provider in Louisiana and meets all state criteria. ADS devices are easy to use and feature a simple operating system with bilingual prompts.

What is an Ignition Interlock Device?

An ignition interlock device, or IID, is often called a car breathalyzer. The devices are small and discreet, and installed into a vehicle’s ignition system. Once installed:

  • The IID requires any driver to take a breath alcohol content (BrAC) test in order to start the car. If they fail the test, the car will not start.
  • The IID will also request random retests during some tests in order to ensure the driver remains sober.

How long is a LA interlock device required?

Typically this is dictated by statute and dependent on the circumstances of the incident as well.

Cost of IIDs in LA

Louisiana requires offenders to pay for the cost of their own interlock device. The devices are leased, not purchased outright. Typically, a device costs between $2.50 and $3.50 per day.

Installing Ignition Interlock Devices in LA

ADS has more than 4,500 locations nationwide, more than any other provider. You can easily find a location near you to get your device installed when you are ready. The technicians will show you how to use the device, and provide any necessary paperwork to get your driver’s license if need be.