Almost everyone whose driving privilege is revoked in Colorado for a DUI-related issue is required by law to have an ignition interlock device installed in vehicles they own or co-own before being able to reinstate a driver’s license. A restricted license is a driver’s license that is restricted to only driving with an interlock device. This is different than a “red license,” which is a license that alows only work and other necessary driving. A restricted license allows a person to drive anywhere, for any purpose, at any time, so long as the driver has and is using an ignition interlock device in the car he or she is driving.
Currently, Colorado’s Department of Revenue authorizes four interlock companies to provide ignition interlock devices. They are:
1A Smart Start, Inc.
866-348-4294
#1 A LifeSafer of CO
800-475-5490
Intoxalock
844-611-3710
Guardian
855-217-2072
most DUI revocations require an interlock as one of the reinstatement requirements. A revocation for a BAC (blood or breath alcohol content) of 0.15 or more requires an interlock for two-years. Also, a multiple offender is required to have an interlock for at least two-years. Revocations for refusing a test, even for a first offender, require two-years of interlock driving as well.
An interlock device is about the size of a large cell phone and is installed in the dashboard and attached to the vehicle’s ignition. The driver must blow into the device in order to start the car. In Colorado, if the device measures a breath alcohol content of .025 or above, the car will not start. The devices are also programmed to take “rolling tests” in which the driver is required to blow into the interlock periodically while driving. If the device detects an excess alcohol level at that point, it will report a failed test and go into lockout mode. Once the vehicle is turned off, the driver will not be able to restart the vehicle without going through the lockout removal procedure with the interlock provider.
The interlock is imbedded with a microchip that records the occurrence of elevated alcohol levels. It must be examined by a licensed interlock provider at least once every 60 days, at which time the information is downloaded and sent to the Colorado DMV. Failure to submit to an examination every 60 days could result in a driver’s license suspension for interlock non-compliance. In addition, the interlock restriction may be extended if the device detects alcohol on three or more occasions within any twelve-month consecutive period. If a driver operates a non-equipped vehicle or attempts to circumvent the interlock device, the driver will be revoked with no driving privileges for at least one year. If a driver’s interlock lease is cancelled, the driver will be suspended until he or she enters into a new interlock lease agreement. If the interlock device detects alcohol in any three months of any twelve consecutive months, the driver may be subject to suspension and additional time on an interlock requirement, up to one-year for each set of three fails.
Ignition interlocks are available through private companies authorized by the state to lease the devices. A typical installation fee costs about $100-150. There is also a monthly charge for the device. Financial assistance is available through the Department of Revenue for first offenders who cannot afford the interlock.