Facing Charges? Act Fast. Call Me At 314-492-8840

15 Day Warning — You may have only 15 days from your arrest to challenge the suspension of your driver’s license!

314-492-8840
Protecting Your Rights And Freedom

Reliable Lawyer Breaks Down DWI Ignition Interlock Device Requirements In Clayton

One of the penalties for a driving while intoxicated (DWI) offense is installing an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle. If this is part of your sentence, I can guide you through the basics of having an IID.

My name is Carl J. Civella, and I am a DWI defense attorney of The Civella Law Firm. The municipal courts in St. Charles County that are heavy DWI arrest areas are: City of St. Peters, City of O’Fallon and the City of St. Charles. If you are a local from Clayton, or reside more generally in St. Louis County or St. Charles County, you can trust me to give highly personalized attention dedicated to solving your problems.

What Is A DWI Ignition Interlock Device?

An IID is a breathalyzer unit connected to your car’s ignition or car starter. Before you can start the car, you must always comply with a breath alcohol test by blowing a breath sample into the device. If the IID detects no alcohol content in your breath, the car starts. A high alcohol content will keep your car locked.

An IID can also ask for rolling retests to check ongoing sobriety. The test happens randomly while the car’s engine runs.

When A DWI Interlock Device Becomes A Requirement In Missouri

Under Missouri law, an IID becomes mandatory if you have repeat offenses and are applying for license reinstatement. If you are planning to get limited or restricted driving privileges, the Department of Revenue (DOR) also requires IID installation. If you are facing a first DWI offense with a high blood alcohol content (BAC), the judge may order you to install an IID to secure early limited driving privileges.

In Missouri, repeat DWI offenders must maintain an IID for a minimum of six months upon license reinstatement. Drivers facing a five- or 10-year license revocation for multiple offenses must maintain an approved IID with camera features throughout their restricted driving privilege period before full reinstatement.

Navigating Missouri’s Ignition Interlock Device Requirements

The Missouri Department of Revenue regulates compliance and maintains the standard criteria for state-certified IID providers required for license reinstatement. You must have your IID installed by one of them. They will handle your monthly maintenance visits, where they check your device’s condition and send your data to the state.

IID installation costs can range from $70 to $150. You will also pay a monthly lease fee, costing $60 to $100 per month. A service fee also applies, which can cost up to $25 per appointment.

Consequences You May Face For An Ignition Interlock Violation

Violating the DWI ignition interlock rules means:

  • Failing a breath test by having a high BAC  level
  • Failing or missing a rolling retest
  • Skipping maintenance or removing the device early
  • Driving without the required IID

Consequences may include an extension of license suspension, a cancellation of your driving privileges and a new criminal offense.

Schedule An Appointment With Me To Learn More About DWI IID

If you have any questions about IIDs, you can ask me. I will provide a detailed explanation to help you understand, whether it is about the device’s mechanisms or rules for reclaiming your license. Call 314-492-8840 or send an email to schedule a discussion with me.

I represent clients throughout St. Louis and St. Charles counties, including before municipal courts in the City of St. Peters, the City of O’Fallon, the City of St. Charles and the surrounding areas.