What is an Ignition Interlock Device?

An ignition interlock device is a breath-alcohol testing device, about the size of a cellular telephone, that is installed on the steering column of a car. Currently, California ignition interlock laws do not allow for them to be installed onto motorcycles due to safety concerns. The ignition interlock system will prevent the car from being started unless the driver blows into the ignition interlock device to demonstrate that he or she is below .029 percent BAC.

If you need an ignition interlock device to satisfy a court order, the California DMV, or for any other reason, please call Smart Start of California without delay: 1.800.880.3394

There are several safeguards to ensure that someone other than the driver does not allow a person to bypass the device:

First, it is a crime for anyone who has an ignition interlock device installed in their car to have someone else blow into it for them. The consequences of doing so could include a misdemeanor criminal conviction. It is also rather unlikely that a sober person would assist someone with alcohol in their system in bypassing an ignition interlock device.

Next, the ignition interlock device requires a particular breath pattern. It is not as simple as just blowing into the ignition interlock collection tube; the driver must exhale in a particular manner, and this requires a bit of training. Smart Start of California provides this training to people in need of an ignition interlock system. But it would be nearly impossible for someone without that particular training to get a car equipped with a Smart Start ignition interlock device otherwise.

Next, there are rolling retests. This means that the machine will require the driver to provide breath tests at random intervals while driving. These rolling restest may occur as quickly as 15 minutes, or as long as an hour after the ignition interlock device initially allowed the car to start. If the rolling rests is not successfully completed, or not taken at all, the computer device will record this and it will result in a violation for that calibration period.

For more information about the technology of Smart Start of California ignition interlock systems, or about the benefits of a Smart Start ignition interlock device, please feel free to read further, or simply call our toll-free number for assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Smart Start of California can be reached by calling 1.800.880.3394.