Ignition Interlock Licenses

In a radical departure from past policy, the 2008 Washington State legislature passed a law helping people accused of DUI.

This new law creates an "Ignition Interlock License" (IIL).

This license decreases the impact of DUI convictions and administrative suspensions by allowing a person to drive during the suspension with an ignition interlock on their car.

This new type of license effectively does away with all DUI license suspensions if you install an ignition interlock on at least one personal vehicle, and does not require it on employer owned vehicles.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions
about this new law:

What is an Ignition Interlock License (IIL)?
If your license has been suspended by the Washington State Department of Licensing for a DUI, an IIL allows you drive 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for any reason (not just work). You are eligible regardless of your breath test level and regardless of whether or not you took a breath test. You are eligible for this even if you have a prior DUI arrest or conviction. You are not eligible for this if you have a prior vehicular assault or vehicular homicide conviction, likewise, you are not eligible of you are convicted of a drug DUI (i.e. any drug other than alcohol). You can find more information about this law at Washington State Department of License website: http://www.dol.wa.gov/driverslicense/iil.html

What must I do to get an IIL?
To receive an IIL you must apply with the Washington State Department of Licensing. There is a $100 fee for the application, as well as a monthly fee of $20 to help fund indigent citizens. You will also need to have an ignition interlock on any vehicle you drive and SR 22 insurance. The DOL will not finalize an ignition interlock license until all of this is in place.

Where do I get SR 22 insurance?
You should first get a quote from your insurance company. If they do not sell it you may want to check with Progressive, Vern Fonk, or Serenity Insurance.

Where do I lease an ignition interlock device?
There are many companies that lease these, we recommend that you shop around. In our experience, they cost about $70 per month. Some will waive installation fees if you ask. We have had client's send us good reviews on Smart Start and Affordable Ignition Interlock, but you should feel free to use any company of your choosing.

I requested an administrative hearing under RCW 46.20.308, can I still apply for an IIL?
Yes. Once the IIL is granted you will lose the right to the hearing and any appeal. The Department of Licensing may require that you waive your right to a hearing or strike a hearing if it is already scheduled before they will process your ignition interlock application.

My license was suspended/revoked from an administrative hearing, can I get an IIL?
Yes, you can still apply for and receive an IIL.

When should I request an IIL?
You should request an IIL as soon as you know you will want one. DOL seems to take a long time (3-4 weeks) to process applications.

Will I need an ignition interlock on my work vehicle?
No, it is not necessary on "vehicles owned by a person's employer and driven as a requirement of employment during working hours." The employer must provide a declaration stating that your work requires you to operate a vehicle owned by the employer during working hours. Here is the link for this application: http://www.dol.wa.gov/forms/500025.pdf.

How long will I need to have an IIL?
For the length of the suspension.

What happens if I violate the terms of my IIL?
It is a criminal offense punishable by up to 6 months in jail and up to a $250 fine.

I have a commercial driver's license, can I drive my commercial vehicle with an IIL?
No. If you have a CDL will not be able to drive a commercial vehicle with an IIL.