Connecticut Ignition Interlock Requirements
In Connecticut, operating a vehicle under the influence (OUI) is a serious offense. This page will cover what you need to do to get back on the road if you’re convicted of OUI.
The Connecticut Ignition Interlock Program
OUI incidents in Connecticut do not require a BAC to be prosecuted, and offenders will be arrested and their vehicle towed at the driver’s expense.
Anyone caught for an alcohol-related driving offense is required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in Connecticut if their BAC is .08 or more. For drivers 21 and under, an IID is required if a BAC test shows a blood alcohol content of .02 or more. Drivers can have their driving privileges restored by applying for a Special Operator's Permit and completing all requirements if they install an IID in Connecticut.
Get a Free Quote! Call 877-274-3419
What Happens if I Get an OUI in Connecticut?
First OUI Offense
- 45-day suspension
- IID CT must be installed for one year after restoration, or for a duration required under Administrative Per Se law, whichever is longer
Second OUI Offense
- 45-day suspension
- Interlock device CT must be installed for three years
- For the first year the IID is installed, drivers can only drive to and from work, school, treatment, ignition interlock device Connecticut service center, or probation appointments.
Third OUI Offense
- License permanently revoked
- Must wait three years for a hearing to reconsider the revocation
What Happens if I Fail to Complete or Refuse to Submit to an OUI Test in Connecticut?
If you fail or refuse to complete a chemical, urine, or breath test you risk penalties as well.
- First test refusal: One year IID required
- Second test refusal: Two years IID required
- Third test refusal: Three years IID required
How Do I Get a Special Operators License if I Have an IID Requirement in Connecticut?
A special operator’s license allows drivers to travel to select locations like work, school, and medical treatments. You may be eligible for a Special Operator's permit if you qualify and complete all requirements. A special operator license holder doesn’t need to install the IID unless they have been required to do so, as the license is used for other types of offenders and circumstances.
First Offenders
- Must not be currently suspended for failure to pay or failure to appear
- Can’t be suspended for operating while suspended.
- Must have no prior alcohol-related offenses
- Cannot have three or more prior moving violations on your driving history.
- If you are currently suspended for reckless driving or evading responsibility, you cannot have more than two prior moving violations on your record
- Cannot have a violation for vehicular manslaughter or assault
- Must fill out the appropriate form and pay all fines
- Must install an ignition interlock device from an approved provider, like Intoxalock
License Restoration
Drivers can have their license restored after serving the suspension period and installing the interlock device and completing any other requirements.
The Process: What to Expect
-
Consult with Legal Counsel
Seek guidance from a DUI lawyer to understand your legal options and rights following a DUI violation.
-
Get an Assessment
Complete a court-ordered or voluntary assessment to evaluate your risk level and determine any required interventions.
-
Schedule Interlock Install
Speak to our State Specialists to schedule your IID installation to meet court or state requirements.
-
Regular Monitoring
Your ignition interlock usage will be regularly monitored to maintain compliance with legal requirements.
-
Device Removal
After fulfilling your IID requirement and receiving approval from your monitoring authority, you can arrange to have your ignition interlock device removed at your local service center.
Connecticut Ignition Interlock Device Cost
You don’t actually purchase an IID, you lease it. Intoxalock CT devices can be leased for $2.50-$3.50 a day, and you can easily manage payments through the app, online, or mail-in checks. There is also a device protection plan available for an additional $10 a month.
The plan protects you in the event your device is damaged from an accident or malfunctions. You will need to take your device to be calibrated regularly, so choose a convenient location.
Expert OUI Attorneys in Connecticut
Smith Keefe Moraghan Waterfall LLC
Torrington, CT 06790
Jainchill & Beckert, Attorneys at Law
Plainville, CT 06062
Aaron J Romano, PC
Bloomfield, CT 06002
The Law Offices of Allan F. Friedman
Stamford, CT 06095
Connecticut FAQs
What is an ignition interlock device and why do I need one?
An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer that is installed in your vehicle to prevent drinking and driving. It is made up of a mouthpiece, a handheld unit and, a cord that attaches to your vehicle’s ignition system. You are required to blow into the mouthpiece to test your Breath Alcohol Concentration (BrAC) before starting your car. For more information see our what is an interlock page..
What are the Connecticut ignition interlock device requirements?
To view Connecticut IID requirements, please visit the Connecticut state page.
How much does an ignition interlock cost in Connecticut?
For pricing information, see Connecticut pricing.
What are the steps to get my ignition interlock device in Connecticut?
Please visit the Connecticut state page to learn more about what steps you need to take to get back on the road.
What information should I provide to get my ignition interlock device installed in Connecticut?
To learn more about the steps to regaining your license, please visit our Connecticut state page.
How do I find an installation location near me in Connecticut?
To find the Connecticut Intoxalock service center closest to you, please visit our Connecticut installation locations page.
When can I get my ignition interlock device removed in Connecticut?
The only way to confirm you are eligible to remove the device is to check with your monitoring authority.
What information should I provide to get my ignition interlock device removed in Connecticut?
Contact your monitoring authority to ensure you are eligible for removal.
What are the other OUI requirements in Connecticut?
Please visit the Connecticut state page to learn about other OUI requirements.
Can I get financial assistance to pay for my ignition interlock device in Connecticut?
For pricing information, see the Connecticut pricing page.
Where can I find other OUI resources such as an OUI attorney, treatment center, or SR-22 insurance in Connecticut?
To find an OUI attorney, please visit our Connecticut attorney partners page.
To find a treatment center, please visit or Connecticut treatment center partners page.
How does an ignition interlock device work?
To see how an ignition interlock device works, visit our ignition interlock page and watch our video demonstrating how to use the device.
Where can I find more information on ignition interlock devices?
To learn more about ignition interlock information, please visit our ignition interlock device page.
Customers Have Great Things to Say
The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.
Readers of this website should contact their attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter. Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation.
