The main reasons for failure of interlock programs are administrative failures rather than driving failures. All a driving failure needs is for one breath test reading to show a reading over the interlock set limits and the whole period of compliance can be lost. An administrative failure, however, can extend for months despite all breath test readings having been within the limits set on the interlock. So organization is a major compliance strategy that depends on much more than just someone being very tidy.
The guidance below assumes a basic familiarity with the types of ignition interlock devices on the market today. Rather than rehashing the basics of the various models, the focus will be on the organizational details required to close out a program in a timely fashion, that is, the record keeping, scheduling and provider coordination required to bring a close to the services of a client. Note that the requirements for interlock programs vary from state to state, and even within states, from county to county. So, it is best to check with the supervising court, the monitoring authority and the state DMV for the most up-to-date information on the specific requirements for your program.
Assemble the document set before the device is installed
Incomplete paperwork can cause problems with an installation appointment. Your service center cannot install your interlock ignition device until they have received proof that you have an appropriate restriction on your license. Also, they cannot program your device for the correct length of time that you are required to be monitored until you have provided them with a dated copy of your order.
What to have in hand at booking
- The court order or administrative notice stating the restriction period and start date
- A current driver license or permit, plus any restricted license documentation
- Vehicle registration and proof that the client is authorized to modify the vehicle if it is leased or owned by a third party
- Written confirmation of which agency receives the monitoring reports
- Payment method for the installation fee and the first monitoring period
Then organize all of this information (and keep the originals) into one folder and then go to your installation appointment well prepared to answer all of the installation personnel’s questions and then they can complete the paperwork to program your device. Also, if ever there is any discrepancy as to when your interlock restriction began, the dated order and the installation certificate will be the 2 best documents to refer to to settle any such dispute.
Choose an approved provider and check its coverage
It matters that the device was installed with an ignition interlock certified by the relevant state agency to use within that state’s borders and that installation of the device was done at a service center for that state authorized by the manufacturer to perform such services.
Questions worth asking before committing
Look for the number of service locations within a reasonable distance that the provider services. Find out how reports are submitted to the monitoring authority and how long it takes for them to be processed. Find out the provider’s lockout service policy including after hours and weekends and the cost for a mobile call out. VASAP programs that run during the winter months and/or where the individual travels frequently would benefit from a provider that has a number of locations that they service and possibly pay a little more for the service. If you are arranging a VASAP interlock in Alexandria, Virginia, it is worth reviewing the certified vendors that actually cover the roads and neighborhoods where you drive each week.
Run the program on a calendar, not on memory
Another area to watch for is how often you will need to return to a service center for a monitoring visit. Typically, these visits occur every 30 or 60 days. Set two reminders for each appointment, one week before the appointment and the day before the appointment, and make the next appointment while at the service center for the monitoring visit.
| Stage | Typical timing | Records to retain |
| Enrollment with the monitoring program | Within days of the order taking effect | Enrollment confirmation, assigned case or client number |
| Device installation | Before driving resumes | Installation certificate, device serial number, vehicle details |
| Routine calibration and data download | Every 30 to 60 days | Dated service receipt, report summary |
| Violation review or hearing | As triggered | Notice, written explanation, supporting evidence |
| Device removal | After the restriction period ends and compliance is confirmed | Removal certificate, final compliance letter |
Planning around vehicle changes
Selling, transferring or disposing of a vehicle in compliance with program requirements requires written notification to the monitoring authority as well as the provider’s service center. The interlock device must be installed on the new vehicle within a very short period of time to document continued compliance as opposed to non-compliance.
Respond to flagged events quickly and in writing
Many interlock “failures” are caused by logged incidents of failed start attempts, missed rolling retests, or interlock alerts for tampering which actually were caused by such mundane causes as mouthwash, unusual food, etc. These events can be explained in great detail and with much more power when documented in real time.
A workable first response
- Note the date, time, and circumstances the same day, while details are accurate.
- Contact the provider to confirm what the log actually shows before drafting any explanation.
- Submit a written account to the monitoring authority within the window it specifies.
- Keep a copy of the submission and any acknowledgment received.
Close the program properly
Even after the end date of the restriction, written authorization from the monitoring authority is required to remove the interlock device from the vehicle. It is also illegal to drive a vehicle without the required interlock device, even for a short time and even after the end date of the restriction.
Final checks
In addition, confirm that all outstanding fees have been paid and that the final data download has been reviewed by the monitoring authority. Verify that the monitoring authority has issued a ‘Compliance Statement’ prior to removal of the interlock device. Request that the removal certificate be completed at the time of the final appointment and retain this along with the original order for a period of several years as evidence of successful completion of the program. License reinstatement, insurance coverage and transfer of licenses to other states require proof of successful completion of Interlock Program requirements.
