You may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in California. Generally, drivers are required to install these devices after a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI). You must use an IID to confirm that your blood alcohol content (BAC) is low before you can start your vehicle while the IID is installed.
It’s natural to wonder when you can get your IID removed. The specific answer depends upon the number of DUI convictions you have on your record. Review information about IIDs here with the Simmrin Law Group and call us at (310) 896-2723 if you need additional answers.
Using an IID for a First-Time DUI Conviction
California’s laws regarding IID usage changed recently. Currently, even drivers convicted of a first-time DUI may be required to install an IID. For a standard, first-time DUI conviction, you may be required to keep an IID installed for six months.
Note that this amount of time will not hold true for all first-time DUI charges. For example, if you are convicted of a DUI causing injury the court can make you maintain an IID for a year.
Installing IIDs for Subsequent DUI Convictions
Each time you are convicted of a DUI in a ten-year period you will have to keep an IID in your vehicle for a longer period of time. You cannot get an IID removed for:
- One year for a second DUI conviction
- Two years for a third DUI conviction
- Three years for a subsequent DUI conviction
DUIs remain priorable for ten-years after your arrest. After ten years pass, a DUI will no longer count against you if you are pulled over.
Circumstances That Prevent You from Removing an IID
Note that you may be required to keep an IID in your vehicle for a longer period of time in some situations. Drivers who attempt to tamper with their IID or otherwise misuse it may have their usage period restarted at the beginning.
Depending upon how long you had the IID in your vehicle, this could add years to your wait to remove it. Additionally, getting pulled over for a DUI while you have an IID in your vehicle can increase the amount of time it must remain.
Ensure You Use an IID Properly in California
You can be penalized for misusing your IID. You should receive specific instructions on the operation of the IID from installation technicians. Make sure that you follow these steps carefully to increase the odds that you will be able to remove the device on schedule.
Per California’s legal regulations, you must not try to:
- Remove the IID yourself
- Tamper with the IID
- Bypass the IID
Additionally, you are legally required to service and maintain your IID at regular intervals. Failure to perform proper maintenance and calibration is considered IID noncompliance by the state. This can lead to the suspension of your driving privileges or even their revocation.
Results of Ignoring IID Regulations in California
Some drivers in California do not want to install an IID for a period of months or years in their vehicles. However, ignoring court orders to install an IID can have serious consequences. IIDs allow you to continue driving following a conviction for a DUI. If you do not install an IID, you are not legally allowed to operate a vehicle.
Indeed, driving without an IID after a DUI conviction can lead to charges for driving on a suspended license. If you are charged with driving on a suspended license, make sure you reach out to a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles right away. You can reach the professionals at the Simmrin Law Group by calling (310) 896-2723.
Get Help Understanding IID Regulations
You can learn more about IIDs from the Simmrin Law Group. Our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles may also be able to handle your charges before you are convicted. Moving quickly to get legal assistance increases your odds of resolving DUI charges successfully.
If you are not convicted of a DUI in California, you will not have to install an IID for any amount of time.
Consider Your Options for Handling an IID
It can take months or years to get your ignition interlock device removed in California. Often, your best option in this situation is to address your legal challenges before you are convicted of a DUI. You can get fast help from the Simmrin Law Group with a FREE case evaluation.
Reach out to our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles by filling out our online contact form or calling (310) 896-2723.