What is the Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program?
Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program is a technology employed to deter drivers with a record of drink driving from starting or driving their vehicles without a mandatory breath check. A device called ‘Alcohol Ignition Interlock’ is installed to the ignition system of the vehicle, which requires the driver to blow into it (for assessing blood alcohol concentration; BAC) to start the vehicle. A blood alcohol level of above ‘zero’ will prevent the driver from starting their vehicles. Other drivers, such as family members are allowed to drive the vehicle linked to the ‘Alcohol Ignition Interlock’; however, they are also required to blow into the device to confirm a BAC below the pre-set level. Since it takes some time for alcohol to be absorbed into the blood stream, the device prompts for random breath checks while you drive.
The government of Queensland has laid down a list of offences for a person to be subjected to a 12-month ‘Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program’ after the disqualification period ends. These offences are:
- driving under the influence of alcohol;
- a drink driving offence with a blood/breath alcohol concentration of 0.15 or more;
- failing to provide a blood/breath specimen for analysis;
- dangerous driving while affected by alcohol; and
- two or more drink driving offences of any kind within a 5-year period.
If you choose to not to undertake the program, you are barred from driving a motor vehicle for 2 years after the disqualification period ends.
How do I start the Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program in QLD?
Apply for a probationary ‘I’ licence: ‘I’ refers to the ‘Interlock’. After the disqualification period ends, the driver is required to reapply for an ‘I’ licence in order to get the alcohol interlock installed. For details of the issuing authorities, documents required, and the clauses associated to get the ‘I’ licence, please visit Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program – Queensland.
Get in touch with the interlock providers: The interlock providers can be contacted for getting the interlock installed to your nominated vehicle. You should not attempt to buy your own interlock. All costs related to installation should be paid by the candidate. For information about cost exemptions, visit Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program – Queensland.
Nominate a vehicle: By completing the Vehicle Nomination Form, you can nominate a vehicle for installation of the interlock. An employer vehicle can also be nominated with permission of the employer, who would also fill the form for nomination.
Exemptions are available for people living in remote areas of Queensland. Information regarding exemptions and financial assistance is available at Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program website.. Further, other Australian states have their ‘Alcohol Ignition Interlock’ programs in place. The program is meant to reduce repeat offences by drivers and to ensure road safety. However, the drivers may be applicable for exemptions depending on their personal circumstances. Please seek legal advice.
What is the cost of the Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program and Interlock Device?
Over a 12-month period, it is estimated the interlock device costs approximately $2,000. This cost estimate includes the installation and removal of the interlock device and the rent of the interlock device.
If you have a valid Health Care Card, discounts are available to you. Financial assistance is also an option for low income earners, but you will need to apply for this.