Arizona Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Requirements

The state of Arizona enforces the mandatory utilization of Certified Ignition Interlock Devices (CIIDs) for individuals convicted of alcohol-related traffic offenses.

Arizona Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide

An Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is essentially a breathalyzer installed in your vehicle that prevents it from starting if alcohol is detected. Arizona has strict DUI laws, and IIDs are a common requirement for those convicted of DUI. This guide provides a detailed overview of Arizona's IID requirements.

When is an IID Required in Arizona?

Arizona law mandates IIDs for any person whose driving privilege is limited or restricted due to a DUI conviction. This applies to Regular, Extreme, and Super Extreme DUI offenses, as well as Aggravated DUI. Unlike some states, Arizona has an "all-vehicle" mandate, meaning the IID must be installed on every vehicle you operate. If you own multiple vehicles but can only afford to equip one, you are legally barred from driving the non-equipped vehicles for any reason.

IID Duration in Arizona

The length of time you're required to have an IID installed depends on the severity of the DUI offense and your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) at the time of arrest.

A first-time regular DUI offender may be eligible for a 6-month deferment, effectively reducing the 12-month requirement to 6 months, provided strict compliance is maintained.

How the Arizona IID Works

1. Before Starting: To start your vehicle, you must blow into the IID. The device will analyze your breath sample.

• Pass: If your BAC is less than 0.020%, the vehicle will start.
• Fail: If your BAC is 0.020% or higher, the vehicle will not start, and a temporary lockout period will be enforced before you can retest. Note that the threshold of 0.020% is significantly lower than the legal driving limit of 0.08%.

1. Rolling Retests: Arizona law requires "rolling retests" at random intervals while the vehicle is in motion to ensure you remain sober. You typically have 6 minutes to provide a sample after the prompt. If you fail the rolling retest (BAC ≥ 0.020%) or fail to provide a sample, the device will register a violation and may activate the vehicle's horn and lights. You must then turn off the vehicle as soon as safely possible. The device typically allows a 3-minute "free restart" window where the car can be restarted without a new breath test if the engine is turned off.

Costs Associated with Arizona IIDs

The cost of an IID in Arizona includes several fees:

• Installation Fee: Varies by provider.
• Monthly Lease/Monitoring Fee: Varies by provider.
• Calibration Fee: Charged every 30-90 days during service visits.
• Removal Fee: Fee for removing the device at the end of the required period.

Keep in mind the SR-22 "Certificate of Financial Responsibility." Insurance companies typically charge a filing fee of $25 to $50 to process the SR-22, in addition to the premium increase.

State-Approved IID Providers in Arizona

Arizona maintains a "closed market" system for ignition interlock providers. As of the current operational period, the primary state-approved providers include:

• Smart Start: Uses the SSI 20/20, SSI 20/30, and SSI Flex models.
• Intoxalock: Uses the 1001A device.
• LifeSafer: Uses the L250 and FC100 models.
• QuickStart: Uses the QT2 device.
• Alcohol Detection Systems (ADS): Uses the DM-909.
• Low Cost Interlock: Uses the LCI-777.
• Alcolock USA: Uses the LR device.
• Alcohol Analytics Systems (Budget IID): Uses the AAS 2.0 device.

IID Violations and Consequences in Arizona

Arizona employs a "strict compliance" model. Violations of the interlock rules trigger administrative penalties that extend the duration of the requirement.

Reportable violations include:

• Tampering or Circumvention: Any attempt to disconnect the device, cover the camera, use a distinct air source, or bypass the electrical circuit.
• Failed Start: Attempting to start the vehicle with a BAC exceeding the presumptive limit (typically 0.08%, or 0.00% for drivers under 21). Note that while the device prevents starting at 0.020%, the violation for extension purposes is typically pegged at higher thresholds or repeated attempts.
• Missed Rolling Retest: Failing to provide a breath sample when requested during a drive cycle.
• Three Consecutive Missed Retests: If a person fails to properly perform a set of three consecutive rolling retests during a single drive cycle, it is a reportable violation.
• Failure to Provide Proof of Compliance: Missing a scheduled calibration appointment.

The standard extension is 6 months for each violation. For example, if you have a 12-month requirement and commit a violation in month 10, the requirement is extended by 6 months.

During calibration visits, the service center downloads the data logs (starts, stops, BAC levels, GPS data, photos), calibrates the sensor to ensure accuracy, and inspects the device for signs of physical tampering.