You may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) into your vehicle after a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI). These devices are a type of breathalyzer that measures your blood alcohol content (BAC) before allowing you to operate your vehicle.
How much does it cost to have a breathalyzer installed in your car in California? Generally, you can expect to pay $75 – $125 for the initial installation. The court also expects you to pay calibration fees and a monthly lease.
Find out more about costs associated with IIDs, the functions of this machine, and the reasons you might need to install a breathalyzer in your vehicle right now with a Los Angeles DUI lawyer from the Simmrin Law Group.
What Does it Cost to Install an IID in California?
Drivers will likely need to pay around $75 – $125 to install an IID. The installation fee varies depending on the company you select to install the ignition interlock device in your vehicle. Some service providers waive the installation fee.
We recommend contacting several service centers to check their prices before you schedule an installation appointment for an interlock device. Companies that handle ignition interlock device installation in California include:
- Intoxalock
- Smart Start
- Guardian Interlock Systems
These businesses have offices throughout California and can handle installation on your behalf after the court orders the mandatory installation of an IID on your steering column.
You May Have to Pay an IID Enrollment Fee
Some service providers, like Smart Start, require drivers to pay a one-time enrollment fee to hold an installation appointment after a conviction for a drunk driving offense. You may not have to pay this fee at all locations or with all companies.
Do IIDs Require a Monthly Payment in California?
Drivers typically have to pay a monthly lease to the installation company while using an IID. The monthly cost can average around $70 – $100. These costs will continue throughout the entire time you are legally required to keep an IID installed in your vehicle.
What Does it Cost to Calibrate Your IID?
Drivers dealing with an IID can expect to pay a minimum of $25 for regular calibration and maintenance fees. You may have to pay this fee every 60 days to keep your interlock device properly working.
Companies charge different rates for their calibration tests. We recommend that you review the costs in your area before scheduling the mandatory installation of your interlock device.
How much does it cost to have a breathalyzer installed in your car in California? As you can see, the price can vary and does not include calibration fees or the monthly lease you must pay while using the device to take random breath samples.
How Long Do You Have to Pay for an IID?
You have to continue paying lease and upkeep fees until the removal of your IID. The court may order you to keep an IID in your vehicle for a lengthy period. In many cases, the court will require you to use an IID for:
- Up to six months for first-time offenses if no one was hurt
- Up to 12 months for a second DUI conviction
- Up to 24 months for a third DUI conviction
- Up to 36 months for a fourth or subsequent offenses
These fees can increase the costs of having a breathalyzer for thousands of dollars.
Charges That Require You to Install a Breathalyzer
Not all DUI convictions require installing a breathalyzer in your vehicle. The court may order you to install an interlock device if you:
- Faced a first-time DUI conviction
- Refused to submit to a legally requested chemical or breath test for the first time
According to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), some charges always require interlock device usage. The court may require you to place an IID in your vehicle before you can legally drive after a DUI causing injury, for example.
Functions of an IID in Your Vehicle
How does an ignition interlock device work? IIDs measure your blood alcohol concentration before you are allowed to operate your vehicle. Your vehicle will only start once you have blown into the IID and had your BAC assessed.
Additionally, the IID in your vehicle requires you to provide random samples as you drive. Generally, you must provide these samples every 45 minutes.
Some drivers worry that if they fail a random test, their vehicle will stop in the middle of the road. IID devices will not shut down your vehicle automatically, as this could endanger other drivers. Instead, the device will report a “fail” to the court.
Can You Avoid the Mandatory Installation of an Interlock Device?
Installing a breathalyzer and paying for upkeep can become expensive. Repeating the test every time you drive your vehicle can quickly become frustrating. However, if you work with a DUI lawyer, you may avoid the requirement to install an IID.
A Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer can handle your claim and build a defense to help you avoid a restricted license, IID requirements, fines, and jail time. Our team may take steps to get your charges dismissed or reduced. We can also represent you in court.
Discuss How Much it Costs to Have a Breathalyzer Installed in Your Car in California
How much does it cost to have a breathalyzer installed in your car in California? The cost varies because you’ll have to pay for the initial installation, a monthly lease, and calibration appointments. Our team at the Simmrin Law Group can work to defend you from DUI charges.
Our criminal defense lawyers in Los Angeles may be able to resolve the charges you’re facing in your favor. Call or complete our online contact form to learn more about your options to fight a DUI accusation.