Vermont State Laws and IID Requirements
Vermont has strict penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol. The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit in Vermont is .08 percent. This means that any driver with a BAC at or above that amount risks being convicted of DUI. There are financial and administrative penalties for DUI in Vermont, and offenders risk fines and license suspension if they are caught.
The VT Ignition Interlock Program
Vermont allows qualified drivers who have installed an ignition interlock to regain driving privileges. This allows those offenders to get back on the road during their license suspension period.
What Happens if I Get a DUI in Vermont?
First DUI Offense
- 90 days license suspension, one year if there is injury or death involved
- Up to two years in jail
- Up to $750 in fines
- Must install an IID to regain driving privileges
Second DUI Offense
- 60 hours minimum in jail, up to two years or 200 hours of community service
- Up to $1,500 fine
- 18-month license suspension
- Must install IID to regain driving privileges, but court can order vehicle immobilized for full suspension period
Third DUI Offense
- 96 hours minimum in jail, up to five years maximum
- Up to $2,500 fine
- License suspended for life
- Can regain driving privileges with an IID, but court can order vehicle immobilized for full suspension period.
- Must wait at least one year of suspension period before applying
Refusing a breathalyzer will not eliminate the consequences. Those who refuse a BAC test will have their license suspended for six months on a first offense.
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How Do I Regain Driving Privileges in Vermont?
In Vermont, some offenders who install an ignition interlock device may be able to regain driving privileges. In order to do so, offenders need to:
- Pay fines and satisfy any court requirements
- Show proof of SR-22 insurance in their name
- Install an IID from a trusted provider
- Complete any alcohol education courses required
- Pay necessary application or reinstatement fees
- Wait the required amount of their suspension period
ADS VT Interlock Devices
Any required interlock device has to be installed by a state-approved provider. ADS and our partner network are approved in Vermont, 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 VT Interlock Device Required?
The length of time is determined by statute, but may increase depending on the circumstances of the offense or other incidents.
Ignition Interlock Cost in Vermont
Vermont offenders are required to cover the cost of their ignition interlock device. The devices cost several thousand dollars, but leasing allows offenders to merely pay a small portion of the total cost. There is financial assistance available for any offenders who receive benefits via: 3SquaresVT, LIHEAP, Reach Up, or state benefits in another state.
How Much Does an IID Cost?
The price of the device is typically between $2.50 and $3.50 a day.
Ignition Interlock Installation in Vermont
There are more than 5,000 locations for ADS installation. Our vast partner network makes it easy for offenders to find a nearby installation location. You will need to return to the location frequently for calibration, so keep that in mind when choosing where to go.
Readers of this website should contact their attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter. Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation.