Maine State Laws and Requirements

Maine Ignition Interlock Devices

The state of Maine refers to alcohol-based driving offenses as Operating Under the Influence, or OUI. In Maine, the legal BAC limit is below .08 percent. Anyone caught driving with a BAC of .08 percent or more is at risk of an OUI conviction. The state suspends the license of any driver caught with a BAC of .08 percent or more immediately. This means that prior to court appearance, offenders won’t be able to drive. In some cases, restricted driving privileges may be restored if the offender installs an ignition interlock device.

State Interlock Regulations

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Table of Contents

The ME Ignition Interlock Program

Anyone in Maine caught with a BAC limit of .08 percent and over is considered guilty of OUI. Their license is suspended, but in some cases, they can get driving privileges restored if they install an ignition interlock device from an approved provider. First, second, and third-time offenders are given license suspensions of various lengths and are required to install an ignition interlock device to restore driving privileges. Before they’re eligible for a restricted license, offenders must serve part of their suspension period.

If there are aggravating factors, penalties increase. Aggravating factors include having a minor in the car at the time of offense, causing injury, death, or property damage, and being more than twice the legal limit.

What happens if I get a DUI in Maine?

Maine has financial and administrative penalties for OUI offenses, and they include jail time, community service, financial penalties, license suspension, and potential IID requirements too.

1st Offense

(with no aggravating offenses)
  • No jail time
  • 150 days license suspension
  • Fine of $500
  • IID required to restore driving privileges before suspension is up

2nd Offense

(with no aggravating offenses)
  • Seven days in jail
  • $700 fine
  • Three years license suspension
  • IID required to restore driving privileges during suspension period

3rd Offense

(with no aggravating offenses)
  • 30 days in jail
  • Pay a $1,100 fine
  • License suspended for six years
  • IID required to restore driving privileges during suspension period

In addition to these penalties, the court may order community service, treatment, or increase penalty time depending on the specifics of the case.

What happens if I fail to complete or refuse to submit to an OUI test in Maine?

Refusing to take a blood alcohol content test or breathalyzer will not protect you from any penalties, and may increase them. If you are stopped and refuse the testing, these are the penalties:

First offense,
refusal to take test

  • 275 day license suspension
  • 96 hours jail time
  • $600 fine

Second offense,
refusal to take test

  • Three years license suspension
  • 12 days jail time
  • $900 fine

Third offense,
refusal to take test

  • Six years license suspension
  • 40 days jail time
  • $1,400 fine

How do I get a restricted driver’s license in Maine?

Maine allows offenders to regain driving privileges if they install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle. The state also requires individuals to serve a specific portion of their suspension before they are eligible for the restricted license.

list

Maine residents, here’s your checklist to get a restricted license:

  • Wait the required portion of the mandated suspension period
  • File a petition with the Secretary of State using the Ignition Interlock Petition Form
  • Pay application fee of $50
  • Complete all penalty requirements including fines
  • Complete an alcohol/substance abuse assessment and education program

If there are other criteria, the court should clarify what other tasks you need to complete.

ADS ME Interlock Devices

The ignition interlock device program allows drivers to get back on the road, which is essential for many to get to work, school, and other necessary appointments. Maine requires drivers to use one of their approved providers, to ensure the device meets state criteria.

What is an Ignition Interlock Device?

An ignition interlock device, or IID, is a small device installed in your vehicle which:

  • Does not allow you to start your vehicle if you have alcohol in your system
  • Requests that you retest your Breath Alcohol Content (BrAC) during trips to prevent tampering and make sure you continue to stay sober while driving

How long is an ME interlock device required?

In Maine, the suspension period is determined by statute, and the IID may be required for up to one year after the suspension period ends.

Ignition Interlock Cost in Maine

Drivers are responsible for the cost of their ignition interlock device. Devices are leased, not purchased outright.

How much does an IID cost?

The price can vary depending on your monitoring needs and the device that is approved in your state. Typically, they cost between $2 and $3 a day.

Ignition Interlock installation in Maine

Maine has many ignition interlock device installation locations, and ADS has more than any other provider thanks to our partner network. Find an installation location near you. When you go for your installation appointment, a technician will show you how the device works. You will need to return 30 days after installation for device calibration, and every 60 days after that.