Ignition Interlock Program Violations In Washington State

Washington State has been focused on cracking down on drunk drivers, and since their driving under the influence (DUI) laws have changed to require first time DUI offenders to install an ignition interlock device, the roads are safer for everyone on them.

Although ignition interlock devices allow a convicted drunk driver to get their license back and on the road faster than if they were to just have a drivers license suspension, not everyone wants to get on or stick with the program. Some offenders will attempt to violate or cheat their ignition interlock device by asking a friend to blow into it or try ideas they found on the Internet to bypass their ignition interlock, but they just don’t work. That’s when the offender finds out what happens if you violate your ignition interlock program.

In Washington State, DUI laws require a first time offender who is convicted of DUI or was in physical control of a motor vehicle while drunk to install an ignition interlock device for at least one year. The ignition interlock device must be installed on all vehicles you drive, so even if you drive a commercial vehicle for work, it must have an ignition interlock unless you are eligible for an employer exemption.

If you attempt to bypass or remove your ignition interlock device before your 1-year requirement program is up, your driving privileges will be suspended. If your drivers license has already been reinstated, your license will be suspended again. For offenders with a restricted license, it will be suspended again as well.

In a nutshell, if you violate or remove your ignition interlock before your term is up in Washington State, you’ll be back at square one. If your goal is to work through the penalties of your DUI and move on with your life, it can’t seem very appealing to remove your interlock device or violate your ignition interlock terms. Blowing before you go to prove your sobriety is a small price to pay for the freedom of driving.