Ignition interlock is essentially a Breathalyzer attached to the ignition of a motor vehicle, and is designed to prevent an alcohol- or drug-impaired person from starting and driving a motor vehicle. The Court may order an ignition interlock as a condition for obtaining restricted driving privileges. The operator of the vehicle is required to give two tests before the device will permit the ignition of the vehicle to start up the vehicle.

The first test is a deep lung sample of breath. The interlock is programmed to “fail” this test if the operator has over a .02 level of alcohol in the breath sample. If the breath sample is under a .02 level, the device will then ask for the second test. This second test is called the CBPA test. This test is a code of breaths and pauses. Each CBPA test is programmed for each device. If the operator fails either test, the device will permit up to three attempts before a lockout. If the operator does get a lockout, the device will permit another test in approximately 30 minutes. Upon passing both tests, the device will allow the operator to start the car.

The Probation Division/Office of Community Control processes all paperwork needed when the Court orders an interlock to be installed, and can provide additional information and further instructions about installation and costs.