Smile for the Camera: Wisconsin’s New Law on Ignition Interlock Device
Have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed in your vehicle? You may need to get ready to smile for the camera. Under a new Wisconsin law, drivers whose IID has an end date of 2024 or later will be required to have a camera feature on the IID. Drivers will be notified regarding how and when they will receive the new equipment.
Ignition Interlock Devices in Wisconsin
An ignition interlock device (IID) measures breath-alcohol concentration. The device is installed in a vehicle and the driver must blow into a mouthpiece before the vehicle will start.
In Wisconsin, IID are required for:
- Repeat Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) offenders
- First time OWI offenders with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.15 or more
- Drivers who are stopped under the suspicion of OWI or driving under the influence (DUI) who refuse to submit to testing
Installation Required on Every Vehicle
An IID must be ordered for a minimum of one year and be installed in every vehicle that is owned or registered to the offender, including cars, trucks, and motor homes, unless exempted by the court. Driving privileges for operating a Class D vehicle are restricted to those vehicles that are equipped with an IID for the duration of the order.
If a driver fails to install an IID or removes, disconnects, tampers, or tries to circumvent using the device, the IID restriction will be extended six months. Individuals who are subject to an IID order are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.02 or more.
Driving to Work or School with an IID
If you need to drive to work or school and are subject to an IID order, you can apply for an occupational license. If granted, you must only operate a vehicle with an IID, regardless of who owns the vehicle.
Facing an OWI charge? Speak with an experienced OWI/DUI defense attorney regarding your situation.
