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Ignition Interlock Violations and Penalties: What You Need to Know

Failed breath test

At Intoxalock, we're here to help you get back on the road safely with the use of your ignition interlock device (IID). Our devices are simple to use—just press the button, blow the simple breath pattern into the device, and you should be ready to start your car.

That said, sometimes ignition interlock violations happen.  Let’s take a closer look at what you should know to help avoid ignition interlock violations in the future.

Why Am I Getting an Ignition Interlock Violation?

Getting a violation on your ignition interlock device can be frustrating, but it’s important to understand the reasons behind it. Ignition interlock violations typically happen due to one of the following reasons:

Failed breath sample

If your breath alcohol content (BrAC) is over the legal limit, the device will display a violation code, which counts as a failed test. The limit varies by state, but it’s usually around 0.02. You’ll need to wait until your BrAC is below the legal threshold before trying again. Every failed test is reported, but the next steps depend on your state’s laws.

Missed random retests

If you fail to complete a random retest during your trip, the IID may issue a violation. Always check your IID after you turn off your vehicle, and before you exit, to be sure your interlock device isn’t prompting you to submit a random retest.

Multiple failed attempts

Consecutive failed breath tests can lead to a lockout and result in a lockout violation. Most states allow a second chance. However, if you fail again, you might experience a lockout, meaning the car won’t start for a set amount of time. In the event of a lockout, you’ll need to contact Intoxalock to reset your device.

Tampering with the device

Any attempt to bypass the device, such as trying to damage it or avoiding providing a sample, will trigger a violation. Tampering can lead to more serious penalties, like fines or an extended IID requirement. If your device is damaged or has been tampered with, let us know immediately.

Missed calibrations

If your IID has not been recalibrated within the required time frame, you may see a violation code.

If you receive an interlock violation and have a question about a specific Intoxalock violation code, call our State Specialists at 833-623-0200, and they can help you understand what it means based on your state's regulations.

Infographic: Common Intoxalock Violations

Penalties for Interlock Violations

Each state handles IID violations differently. If you fail a breath test, some states will let you continue to provide samples until your BrAC is below the limit. In other states, repeated failed tests can trigger a service or temporary lockout, requiring a service call to reset your device.

More serious violations, like tampering with the device or missing multiple random retests, can lead to harsher penalties, including:

Extended IID requirement

The time you are required to use the ignition interlock device may be extended due to multiple violations.

Fines

Some states impose additional fines for continued violations.

Lockout

After a certain number of violations, your IID may enter a lockout state, requiring you to contact your service provider to reset the device. Need immediate help with a lockout? Call 888-283-5899 now.

License suspension

In severe cases, your driving privileges could be suspended or revoked, depending on state regulations.

The number of IID violations allowed before penalties escalate depends on your state’s regulations. Be sure to check with your State Specialist to understand the rules in your area. If you have any questions or have received multiple violations, contact our State Specialists at 833-623-0200 for guidance based on your situation.

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Intoxalock Violation Code Meanings

Violation codes on your ignition interlock device can vary depending on your state’s regulations. This means there is no universal guide for interlock violation codes. If your IID displays a specific violation code, the best course of action is to contact Intoxalock’s customer service team at 833-623-0200. Our State Specialists will review the code and let you know what it means for your specific situation and state laws.

Violation Code Explanation
VIOL 0 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 0 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
Failed start test 1 or more times, pending local rules.
VIOL 1 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 1 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
Failed a test 1 or more times, pending local rules.
VIOL 2 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 2 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
Failed a random test 1 or more times, pending local rules.
VIOL 3 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 3 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
Missed a random test 1 or more times, pending local rules.
VIOL 4 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 4 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
Your device memory is nearly full.
VIOL 5 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 5 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
You have disconnected your handheld longer than allowed, pending local rules.
VIOL 6 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 6 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
WI only - missed 3 random test sequences.
VIOL 7 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 7 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
You have reached your allotted violation limit for this monitoring period, pending local rules.
VIOL 10 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 10 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
Device has recognized 2 sets of 3 breath samples with invalid breath temperatures.
VIOL 11 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 11 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
Your device has recognized a vehicle start without the appropriate start test.
VIOL 12 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 12 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
You have disconnected your hh after car start for more than the allowable time, pending local rules.
VIOL 14 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 14 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
TX only - specific conditions met for sdc related to court requirements.
VIOL 17 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 17 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
14 passed initial samples have been completed with no following car start or random test.
VIOL 18 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 18 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
Relay case has been tampered with.
VIOL 24 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 24 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
Your install has failed and must be returned for service to complete.
VIOL 32 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 32 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
You have failed 1 or more start confirmation tests, pending local rules.
VIOL 33 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 33 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
You have missed 1 or more start confirmation tests, pending local rules.
VIOL 34 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 34 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
Failed a random test or random test confirmation 1 or more times, pending local rules.
VIOL 35 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 35 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
Missed a random test or random test confirmation 1 or more times, pending local rules.
VIOL 36 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 36 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
You have accumulated 3 strikes, as defined by local rules.
VIOL 38 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 38 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
You have received a failing breath test reading over .08.
VIOL 39 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 39 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
Unit has detected circumvention and must be returned for inspection.
VIOL 40 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 40 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
Your interlock unit has lost power for longer than allowed, pending local rules.
VIOL 42 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 42 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
WI only - failed 3 random test sequences.
VIOL 47 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 47 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
You have met the maximum number of strikes allowed per state guidelines before an early recall.
VIOL 49 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 49 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
NC only - you have missed your arrival test.
VIOL 50 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 50 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
NC only - you have failed your arrival test.
VIOL 255 LOCKOUT IN X DAYS
or
VIOL 255 EARLY RECALL IN X DAYS
Recalibration required.

How Are Violations Reported?

Every ignition interlock violation gets recorded and reported to the appropriate monitoring authority in your state. Reporting methods vary by state and can include:

Real-time reporting

Some IIDs can report violations as they happen. If this is the case, our compliance team reviews and reports any issues.

Download during device calibration

You’re required to get your IID calibrated every 30-120 days, depending on state rules. During calibration, the data from your device is reviewed, and any violations are reported.

Need Help with Your Ignition Interlock Device? We’re Here 24/7

If you provide a failed breath sample, experience a lockout have questions about how to use your device, or need help understanding different IID messages, Intoxalock customer support is available 24/7 to help you. Call 833-623-0200 for help with your device or your account.

Topics:
Ignition Interlock Devices Maintenance & Troubleshooting

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Solicitud de contacto en Espanol

By clicking the button, I am providing my ESIGN signature and express written consent to permit Consumer Safety Technology, LLCConsumer Safety Technology, LLC brands include Intoxalock, Keepr, DUI.org, DUICare, and parties calling on its behalf, to contact me at the number provided above, without regard to the time of day, for marketing purposes, including through the use of automated technology, SMS/MMS messages, and prerecorded and/or artificial voice messages. Consent is not a condition of purchase. For California residents, click here.