Minnesota's New Ignition Interlock Device.
MN Driving Law, specifically Minnesota Statutes 171 and 169, went into effect July 1, 2011, requiring all Minnesota Drivers who are arrested and charged with DUI / DWI to sign up for the Ignition Interlock device program in order to drive. The device will be used to demonstrate abstinence for drivers who have been revoked, cancelled or suspended due to drug or alcohol violations.
The ignition interlock device program allows a defendant charged or arrested for drug or alcohol violations to operate a motor vehicle with an Ignition interlock device. It also operates as a verification of sobriety during the program and as required by probation and driver licensing of Minnesota.
Ignition Interlock Program
Once a person opts into the program they must complete the program. This includes all typical license reinstatement; Pass the DWI knowledge test, pay a $680 reinstatement fee and apply for a new driver's license. You must obtain an insurance certificate (basically informing your auto insurance provider that you are on this which requires them to notify DMV if your insurance ever lapses.
The driver will be required to sign a participation agreement and possible a special review form along with an applying for an ignition interlock restricted license. This restricted license puts a notation on the driver's license that you are in the program and only authorized to drive a motor vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device. Driving another vehicle is a misdemeanor. A driver may also have to apply for special registration license plates if license plates were impounded .
Costs of Ignition Interlock and License Revocation periods.
The costs vary as providers of the device are authorized but typical fees are $95 installation, $100 per month calibration (required monthly) and $50 removal.
- First time Offenders with an alcohol concentration between .08 and less than .16 will lose their license for 90 days but can start driving immediately upon getting set up with Ignition interlock.
- First Time Offenders with an alcohol concentration at .16 or more or second time offenders with a BAC less than .16 will have a revocation period of 1 year.
- Second Time Offenders with a blood alcohol concentration at .16 or more the license revocation period is 2 years.
- Third DWI is 3 years, Fourth is 4 years and Fifth offense is 6 years.
For all of the above there is no allowance for a limited license but full driving privileges will be granted with installation of ignition interlock.
B-Card Limited License restrictions.
Three or more violations in a lifetime will require that you have a drug and alcohol restriction (commonly known as a B Card). The ignition Interlock will be required to prove sobriety for the required time to DMV. For existing drivers with B-Cards, the new law provides the option to remove the B-Card if you have not had any violations in the last 10 years
Call Blaschko & Associates Law Firm's DWI Attorneys for more information. We may be able to get your license back sooner for First time offenders and there are other exceptions and variations depending on the facts of your case. We can help you get through this effectively and affordably. Call NOW!
Contact a Minneapolis/St Paul, Minnesota DUI Attorney Today
If you have been charged with a DUI or other driving offense it is important to seek legal representation immediately. There is a limited time frame to fight the charges, and keep your license. Call our experienced lawyers today at 651-315-8755, Toll Free at 866-929-0453, or online.
