Pennsylvania Requirements
In Pennsylvania, a DUI conviction can spell hardship for many drivers. In addition to financial penalties and other requirements, many have their license suspended.
DEVICES AVAILABLE - If you need to install a device to meet your state requirements, we can help. Contact us today to schedule an installation appointment.
The PA Ignition Interlock Program
Under the relatively new PA ignition interlock law, Pennsylvania does allow some drivers to obtain an Occupational Limited License after they serve 60 days of their suspension if they install an ignition interlock device. PA DUI laws call for a one-year driver’s license suspension for repeat DUI offenders, and the state also requires those drivers to install an ignition interlock PA approves. The state takes a tiered approach to DUI offenses, with progressively larger penalties for repeat offenders.
All DUI Convictions that result in a 12-month or greater suspension being imposed have a 1-year Ignition Interlock Requirement. Participating in the Ignition Interlock Program is the ONLY way to get your unrestricted license back.
Ignition interlock devices require drivers to pass a Breath Alcohol Content test before they can start their car. A passing result is anything below .025 percent BrAC, or .020 for anyone under 21. Any failed results will be reported to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation PennDOT. Drivers are responsible for the cost of the device, which can vary depending on the provider. Intoxalock devices cost between $2.50-$3.50 per day. Drivers are responsible for their device and will need to return for calibration 30 days after installation, and every 60 days afterward during the course of the lease.
What Happens if I Get a DUI in Pennsylvania?
First DUI Offense
- 12 month license suspension
- 72 hours to six months in prison $1,000-$5,000 fine
- Alcohol highway safety school
- Alcohol abuse treatment if ordered
Second DUI Offense
- 18 month license suspension
- 90 days to five years in prison
- $1,500-$10,000 fine
- Alcohol highway safety school, treatment if ordered
- Must have IID for one year
Third DUI Offense
- 18 month license suspension
- One to five years in prison
- $2,500-$10,000 fine
- Treatment if ordered
- Must install an ignition interlock PA approves for one year
Suspensions are typically applied to drivers whose blood alcohol content is more than .10 percent. Here is how those offenders are treated:
- BAC < .10 percent: No suspension on a first offense if driver meets certain criteria, 12-month suspension for repeat offenders
- BAC equal or > .10 percent: 12 month license suspension for first and second offenders, 18 month suspension for third offenders
- BAC > or equal to .16 percent: 12 month suspension for first offenders. 18 months for repeat offenders.
What Happens if I Fail or Refuse to Take a Test?
PA DUI laws say that drivers who refuse to take a field sobriety or breathalyzer test in PA risk being arrested and other additional penalties like increased license suspension on top of DUI fines.
How Long is a PA Interlock Device Required?
All DUI Convictions that result in a 12-month or greater suspension being imposed have a 1-year Ignition Interlock Requirement. Participating in the Ignition Interlock Program is the ONLY way to get your unrestricted license back.
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Thank you, a State Specialist will contact you in the next few minutes to guide you through the IID requirement and process.
Thank you, a State Specialist will contact you during business hours to guide you through the IID requirement and process.
The Process: What to Expect
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Consult with Legal Counsel
Seek guidance from a DUI lawyer to understand your legal options and rights following a DUI violation.
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Get an Assessment
Complete a court-ordered or voluntary assessment to evaluate your risk level and determine any required interventions.
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Schedule Interlock Install
Speak to our State Specialists to schedule your IID installation to meet court or state requirements.
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Regular Monitoring
Your ignition interlock usage will be regularly monitored to maintain compliance with legal requirements.
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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.
Interlock Cost in Pennsylvania
Any driver sentenced or required to install a PA interlock device is responsible for the cost. Devices are leased, not purchased outright. Typically:
- Prices vary depending on your monitoring needs, but typically they cost between $2.50-$3.50 a day.
- Intoxalock also offers a device protection plan in case of damage, for $10 a month.
- A state specialist can help confirm pricing options for you.
- PennDOT sends a notification 30 days prior to the date the driver will be eligible to have the device removed, so drivers can plan and schedule their removal appointment.
Expert DUI Attorneys in Pennsylvania
Benari Law Group
Media, PA 19063
Goodwin Como, P.C.
Uniontown, PA 15401
The Benari Law Firm
Media, PA 19603
The Law Firm of Alexander Silow
West Chester, PA 19382
Pennsylvania FAQs
To find a DUI attorney, please visit Intoxalock’s Pennsylvania DUI attorney partners page.
To find a treatment center, please visit Intoxalock’s Pennsylvania DUI treatment center partners page.
Customers Have Great Things to Say
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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.
