Understanding Illinois’ ignition interlock device laws

When an Illinois traffic stop leads to a charge and subsequent conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol, you may face serious penalties that might include jail time, steep fines and substance abuse treatment obligations, among others. In Illinois, you also have to install a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle once you regain the privilege to drive. This is true even if you are a first-time DUI offender.

Per the Office of the Illinois Secretary of State, Illinois also requires that your BAIID snap a photo of you each time you use it. This is to prevent those with BAIIDs in their vehicles from having someone else submit the breath sample needed to start the car.

The BAIID after a first-time DUI

A BAIID gives you a possible way through which to drive during your statutory summary suspension period. To be eligible for driving relief, you must secure a Monitoring Device Driving Permit in addition to having the BAIID installed on your car and any others you plan to drive during the suspension period. The Secretary of State’s office monitors the device and receives notification if you blow an insufficient breath sample or tamper with it in any way.

The BAIID after a repeat DUI

If you have two or three DUIs or two statutory summary suspensions in your driving history, you must get a BAIID to drive using a Restricted Driving Permit. If you have two or three DUIs, you must continue to use the BAIID for at least five consecutive years.

There are costs associated with installing and monitoring BAIIDs, and these costs are your responsibility.