Minnesota State Laws and Requirements

Minnesota Ignition Interlock Device Policies

Minnesota has strict penalties in place for driving while intoxicated, or DWI. Those found driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or above risk several administrative and financial penalties. The penalties include fines, potential jail time, and license suspension. Eligible offenders may be able to regain their driving privileges during the suspension period if they install an ignition interlock device from an approved provider.

State Interlock Regulations

As of August 2021, Minnesota has waived the waiting period for interlocks. Now, those convicted of a drunk driving offense who are eligible for the interlock program can install the IID without serving out a waiting period. This guide will go over the interlock process in Minnesota.

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Table of Contents

Ignition Interlock Guide for Minnesota

The penalties for all DWI offenders in Minnesota include license suspension, which increases if there are prior offenses. Eligible offenders who get an IID installed can regain their driving privileges during the suspension period. Minnesota’s IID program is compliance based, which means offenders may have their interlock term extended if they re-offend.

What are the Penalties for a DWI in Minnesota?

There are multiple penalties for DWI offenders, and they increase depending on the circumstances of the offense.

1st Offense

  • $1,000 fine, and a potential 90 days in jail (occasionally, only one of these penalties is instituted)
  • License suspended for 90 days
  • IID required to regain driving privileges
  • Required fee of $680 for license reinstatement
  • Must take a DWI knowledge test
  • Required to pay any additional license application fees
  • Must undergo a chemical health assessment
If the offender has a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .16 or higher, or a minor is present, harsher penalties are handed down by the court. These penalties include a $3,000 fine or a year in jail, and a license suspension of one year.

2nd Offense

  • Jail time of one year, a $3,000 fine - one or both of these penalties may be handed down
  • License suspended for one year
  • IID required to regain driving privileges
  • License reinstatement fee of $680
  • Must take a DWI knowledge test
  • Required to pay any additional license application fees
  • Must undergo a chemical health assessment
For offenders who have a minor in the car at the time of the offense, or are found to have a BAC at or above .16 percent, penalties increase. They include two years without driving privileges.

3rd Offense

  • Jail time of one year, a $3,000 fine - one or both of these penalties may be handed down
  • License canceled
  • Must enroll in treatment program and install an interlock to get a limited license - this limited license will put restrictions on where offender can drive
  • After completing treatment, 3-5 years of an IID restricted license is required
  • License reinstatement fee of $680
  • Must take a DWI knowledge test
  • Required to pay any additional license application fees
  • Must undergo a chemical health assessment
All penalties and fines may change depending on the circumstances of the drunk driving offense.

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

Refusing a breathalyzer test will not get you out of the consequences of your drunk driving offense. Penalties may include a $3,000 fine and license suspension.

The Cost of Interlock Devices in MN

Offenders are responsible for covering the cost of installing and leasing their interlock device. ADS offers flexible payment options, and the cost of the device is typically between $2.50 and $3.50 per day.

How Can I Regain Driving Privileges in Minnesota?

Eligible offenders may be able to regain their driving privileges during the suspension period if they meet the following criteria:

list
  • Clarify with court that an interlock is required and allowed
  • Provide proof of enrollment in a treatment provider with the Minnesota Department of Vehicle Services
  • Obtain SR-22 liability insurance and provide certificate of coverage
  • Pass the DWI knowledge test
  • Pay any penalty fines and required license fees
  • Install an interlock from an approved provider
  • Sign the Interlock Participation Agreement
  • Complete license application

Some offenders may be required to complete other criteria, depending on their driving record and the circumstances of their offense.

ADS Interlock Devices in MN

Minnesota’s IID program is monitored by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services Division (DVS). The program requires eligible drivers to install an interlock from an approved provider, as all data from their interlock device is sent to the monitoring authority. ADS is an approved provider in Minnesota, and thus can help you meet the requirements to regain your driving privileges.

What is an Ignition Interlock Device?

Ignition interlock devices are frequently called car breathalyzers. They help prevent drunk driving. Here’s how:

  • Once installed, the IID requires the driver to test the Breath Alcohol Content (BrAC) and pass before they can start their vehicle.
  • During most trips, the IID requests random retests to be certain the driver remains sober.

How long is a MN interlock device required?

This is dictated by statute, but Minnesota also operates on a compliance-based model. This means that drivers who re-offend may have their interlock term extended.

Finding an Ignition Interlock Device Installer Near Me MN

ADS has a vast partner network, with more than 5,000 installation locations nationwide. You can easily find a location near you. Keep in mind, you will need to return to your installation center on a regular basis to have your device calibrated, so choose one that is convenient for you to return to. At your appointment, the installation technician will go over how the device works and provide the certificate of installation for you before you leave.