IID Tips & Best Practices
Follow these tips to avoid violations, complete your requirement smoothly, and get your IID removed on schedule.
The goal: Zero violations, on-time completion
Every violation can extend your requirement by months. These tips help you avoid common problems and get the IID removed as soon as possible.
Do's
Use alcohol-free products
Switch to alcohol-free mouthwash, avoid breath spray, and check medication ingredients.
Wait 15-20 minutes after eating
Food residue in your mouth can affect readings. Give it time to clear.
Keep your device clean
Wipe the mouthpiece regularly with a dry cloth. A clean device works better.
Schedule calibrations early
Book appointments a few days before the deadline in case you need to reschedule.
Save the support number
Have your provider's 24/7 number in your phone for emergencies.
Practice proper blow technique
Steady breath for 4-6 seconds. Not too hard, not too soft.
Keep your car battery healthy
IIDs draw power. Drive regularly and replace old batteries.
Document everything
Keep records of calibrations, any issues, and what you ate/drank before failed tests.
Don'ts
Don't use regular mouthwash
Most contain alcohol. Even residue can trigger a failed test.
Don't test immediately after using hand sanitizer
Alcohol vapors from your hands can affect readings.
Don't miss calibration appointments
A missed calibration leads to lockout and is reported as a violation.
Don't try to fool the device
Having someone else blow, tampering—these are serious crimes.
Don't drive without the IID
Driving any vehicle without an IID during your requirement is illegal.
Don't ignore device warnings
Service warnings, low battery alerts—address them promptly.
Don't blow too hard or too soft
Either can cause an abort/invalid sample, which gets logged.
Don't skip rolling retests
Pull over safely and complete them. Missing is a violation.
Pro Tips
Morning breath tip
Brush your teeth and rinse with water (not mouthwash) at least 15 minutes before your morning drive. Some people fail morning tests due to acid reflux.
Cold weather tip
Devices can be slow in extreme cold. If possible, park in a garage. Give the device a minute to warm up before testing.
Retest tip
Plan for rolling retests on long drives. Keep water in the car. Know where safe pullover spots are on your regular routes.
Calendar tip
Set three reminders for calibration: 7 days before, 3 days before, and day before. Schedule your appointment when the first reminder hits.
Food tip
Certain foods can cause readings: bread, ripe fruit, energy drinks, vanilla extract. Wait 15-20 minutes after eating anything before testing.
Battery tip
If you don't drive daily, consider a battery tender. IIDs drain batteries over time, especially in cold weather.
Calibration Success Tips
Schedule early in your window
If calibration is due on the 30th, schedule for the 25th. This gives you buffer time if something comes up.
Choose a convenient location
Find a service center near work or home. You'll go every month— convenience matters.
Bring payment and ID
If calibration isn't included in your monthly fee, have payment ready. Some locations are cash-only.
Keep records
Save all receipts and confirmations. You may need proof of calibration if there's ever a dispute.
If Something Goes Wrong
Failed test (false positive)
Wait 15 minutes, rinse with water, retest. Document what you ate/drank. A clean retest helps show it was a false positive.
Device malfunction
Call your provider's 24/7 support immediately. Don't try to fix it yourself. Document the issue and any error messages.
Missed calibration
Call your provider immediately. They may be able to provide a temporary unlock code. This will be reported as a violation—contact your attorney.
Violation reported
Contact your attorney before responding to any notice. Document your side of what happened. Request a hearing if you believe it was unjust.
Remember: This Is Temporary
Your IID requirement has an end date. Every violation-free month brings you closer to removal. Focus on:
- Following the rules consistently
- Never missing calibration
- Avoiding substances that can cause false positives
- Keeping records of everything
Complete your requirement without violations and you'll have it removed on schedule—maybe even early in some states.
False Positive Guide
What causes them and what to do
IID Violations
Types and consequences
Sources
Tips compiled from IID provider documentation, user experiences, and expert recommendations as of January 8, 2026.