What is the ignition interlock device program?

There are many different penalties that the state of South Carolina may impose if you are caught drinking and driving. One of those is requiring you to put an ignition interlock device on your vehicle. The South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services explains that the ignition interlock device program was first established in 2007 with updates to the program in 2014 and 2015.

The program must be completed when ordered by the court. It is monitored by the SCDPPPS. If you are convicted of a DUI the first time and your blood alcohol content was .15 or more, then you will have to complete the program. You cannot drive without the IID. If you do, you face stiff penalties. It is also illegal to tamper with the device or try to alter the results in any way.

Once in the program, you will have to have the IID installed on your vehicle. It must be inspected every 60 days by the SCDPPPS. If you fail to enter the program when ordered to do so, you will have your license suspended.

An IID is a device that connects to your vehicle and requires you to submit to a breath test before the vehicle will start. You have to blow into the device every time you wish to turn it on. These devices are equipped with cameras to prevent fraud, such as having someone else blow on the device to get the vehicle started. This information is for education and is not legal advice.