What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
An IID is a handheld breath – alcohol monitoring device (approximately the size of a cellphone) that is electronically connected to a vehicle’s ignition. Before starting your vehicle, the IID requires you to take and pass a breath test. It also requires you to take re – tests while you are operating the vehicle.
Who Needs an IID?
There are three possible scenarios in which you need to use an IID:
- If you have 2 or more OUI convictions (for alcohol or controlled substances) and are eligible for a hardship license, you must us the IID for the length of your hardship license. You must also use the IID for an additional 2 years after your license is reinstated.
- If you have 2 or more OUI convictions (for alcohol or controlled substances) and you are eligible for license reinstatement, you must use the IID for 2 years after your license is reinstated. This 2 – year period is in addition to any time you may have used the IID with a hardship license.
- If a court orders you to use the IID for any reason, you must use the IID for the length of the court order.
Note: Upon completion of the required period, your IID will not be authorized for removal if you had any IID infractions or violations during the past six consecutive months.
The IID must be used in every registered vehicle that you own, lease, or operate (including your employer’s vehicle). A restriction will be added to your license making it illegal to operate a vehicle that is not equipped with an IID.
If you do not have the IID installed in your vehicle(s), you will not be eligible for a hardship license and you will not be allowed to have your license reinstated.
Massachusetts License Suspensions for Failed Breathalyzer Tests
A driver is deemed to have failed a chemical test if he or she has a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.08 or greater. Persons under the age of 21 have the same standard for criminal purposes, but face administrative action for tests with a .02 or greater BAC.
- Drivers over 21 with a BAC of .08 and greater face a 30 day License Suspension
- Drivers between the ages of 18 and 24 face 30 day suspension plus an additional 180 days pursuant to M.G.L.c. 90 s. 24P.
- Drivers under the age of 18 face a 30 day suspension plus an additional 1 – year pursuant to M.G.L.c. 90 s.24P.
Massachusetts License Suspension for Refusing a Breathalyzer Test
- First Offense – 180 day loss of license
- One Prior OUI Offense – 3 Year loss of license
- Two Prior OUI Offenses – Five Year loss of license
- Three or More Prior OUI Offenses – Lifetime loss of license