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.
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.
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.
There are multiple penalties for DWI offenders, and they increase depending on the circumstances of the offense.
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.
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.
Eligible offenders may be able to regain their driving privileges during the suspension period if they meet the following criteria:
Some offenders may be required to complete other criteria, depending on their driving record and the circumstances of their offense.
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.
Ignition interlock devices are frequently called car breathalyzers. They help prevent drunk driving. Here’s how:
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.
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.