Rhode Island State Laws and Requirements

Rhode Island Ignition Interlock Devices

In the state of Rhode Island, driving while intoxicated (DWI), is defined as a blood alcohol content of equal or more than .08 percent. Driving while under the influence of alcohol, prescription drugs, or other drugs is also considered DWI. This includes controlled substances like marijuana. For commercial drivers, the legal BAC limit is .04 percent, and drivers found driving their commercial vehicle with that BAC limit are considered to be driving while intoxicated.

State Interlock Regulations

Even first offenders will receive a license suspension, although Rhode Island does grant hardship licenses to those who qualify and agree to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle.

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Table of Contents

The RI Ignition Interlock Program

Rhode Island grants qualified offenders a hardship license if they install an ignition interlock device from a state-approved provider like ADS. The hardship license allows offenders to regain driving privileges during the suspension period, if they install an IID.

What happens if I get a DUI in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island has increasing penalties depending on prior offenses and the circumstances of the alcohol-based incident. There are financial and administrative penalties for each offense level, and ignition interlock devices are required from the first offense onward if offenders want to regain driving privileges during their suspension period.

1st Offense

  • Up to one year of jail time
  • 30 days to 12 months license suspension
  • Fine of up to $400
  • IID required to be granted hardship license, suspension can be reduced to 30 days suspension and an IID for three months to a year

2nd Offense

  • 10 days to one year in jail
  • Up to $400 fine
  • One to two years license suspension
  • IID required to be granted hardship license, at judge’s discretion

3rd Offense

  • One to three years in jail
  • Up to $400 fine
  • License suspended for two to three years
  • IID required to be granted hardship license, at judge’s discretion

Offenders who have a BAC of .15 percent receive harsher, increased penalties. They include: one to five years in jail, fines up to $5,000, and a license suspension of three months to three years.

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

How do I get a hardship license in Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, first-time offenders are eligible for a hardship license if they install an IID. Repeat offenders can be granted a hardship license at the judge’s discretion, usually after serving a suspension period or portion of one, depending on the judge’s decision. For a hardship license to be granted, all offenders must also complete the following:

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  • Provide the installation certificate for the IID to the Rhode Island Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
  • Receive a court order from the Rhode Island traffic tribunal for the hardship license
  • Pay $100 ignition interlock fee to the DMV and a $27.50 payment for license update
  • Complete all penalty requirements including fines

Sometimes the specifics of the incidence mean there are additional requirements, but this is the general criteria that applies to every driver.

ADS RI Interlock Devices

A hardship license requires an ignition interlock device, which must be installed by an approved provider. ADS and our partner network are approved in Rhode Island, so you know you will be in compliance with state regulations.

What is an Ignition Interlock Device?

Ignition interlocks are small devices installed inside your vehicle that:

  • Won’t let you start your vehicle if you have alcohol in your system
  • Randomly requests retests of your Breath Alcohol Content (BrAC) while you’re driving to prevent device tampering and drunk driving

How long is an RI interlock device required?

This depends on the statute, the number of offenses on the driver’s record, and if there were aggravating factors to the DWI offense. Offenders can have their license suspension reduced by using an IID. After the mandatory suspension period, they must install the interlock device and keep it for the length of time outlined below. These are the IID requirements in Rhode Island:

  • First offense - three months to a year after
  • Second offense - six months to two years
  • Third offense - one to four years

Ignition Interlock Cost in Rhode Island

The cost for the ignition interlock device is covered by the offender. The devices are leased, not purchased outright.

How much does an IID cost?

Prices vary depending on monitoring needs and the device required by the state. Currently, an ADS interlock device would cost between $2.50 and $3.50 a day.

Ignition Interlock installation in Rhode Island

Thanks to the ADS partner network, we have more installation locations than any other provider in Rhode Island. Find an installation location near you. The certified technician will install your device and also give you an overview of how it works before you leave.