Tennessee Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Requirements

Understanding Tennessee Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Requirements After a DUI

If you've recently been arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Tennessee, you're likely facing numerous questions and concerns. One of the most significant involves the potential requirement to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Tennessee's IID laws, helping you understand your obligations and navigate the process.

What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?

An IID, also known as a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID), is a breath alcohol analyzer connected to your vehicle's ignition system. Before you can start your car, you must blow into the device. If the device detects a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above a pre-set limit, typically 0.02% in Tennessee, the vehicle will not start. The device also requires random breath tests while you are driving, known as "rolling retests," to ensure continued sobriety.

Who is Required to Install an IID in Tennessee?

Tennessee law, specifically within Title 55, Chapter 10 of the Tennessee Code Annotated (T.C.A.), mandates IID installation for a wide range of DUI convictions. The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) oversees the IID program, ensuring compliance with state regulations (T.C.A. §§ 4-3-2009, 55-10-412, 55-10-417, and 55-10-425).

Tennessee Laws Requiring IID Installation

The main statutes governing IID requirements in Tennessee are:

• T.C.A. § 55-10-409: Deals with the issuance of Restricted Driver Licenses (RDLs) and the conditions attached to them, including the requirement of an IID.
• T.C.A. § 55-10-417: Outlines the penalties for non-compliance with IID requirements and establishes calibration standards for the devices.
• T.C.A. § 55-10-425: Focuses on the compliance-based removal of the IID and the consequences of violations.

Offenses That Trigger IID Requirements

For offenses occurring on or after July 1, 2013, an IID is mandatory for obtaining a restricted license under the following circumstances:

• BAC of 0.08% or Higher: If your BAC was 0.08% or higher at the time of arrest. This aligns the IID requirement with the per se DUI legal limit (T.C.A § 55-10-417).
• Drugs or a Combination of Substances: If your DUI involved drugs or a combination of alcohol and drugs. This applies even if your BAC was below 0.08%.
• Endangerment of Minors: If a person under the age of 18 was in the vehicle at the time of the offense.
• Accident with Proximate Cause: If your DUI resulted in an accident that required law enforcement notification (injury or property damage above a certain value), and the accident was a direct result of your intoxication.
• Repeat DUI Offenders: For a second or subsequent DUI conviction, an IID is required for the entire revocation period with no option for only geographical restrictions. (T.C.A. § 55-10-417)
• Implied Consent Violations: Refusal to submit to a breath, blood, or urine test ("implied consent violation") may result in mandatory IID if you have a prior DUI or implied consent violation within the past five years. Judges may also order it at their discretion.

In cases where none of the above triggers exist, the court may grant a restricted license with geographic restrictions (driving only to work, school, religious services, or medical appointments) instead of requiring an IID. However, you have the option to request an IID in lieu of geographic restrictions, which provides greater freedom of movement (T.C.A. § 55-10-409).

How Long is the IID Required?

The minimum operational period for an IID in Tennessee is typically 365 consecutive days. However, this period can be extended due to violations.

The "120-Day Rule": You must have a violation-free period of 120 consecutive days immediately prior to being eligible for IID removal. Any violation during this period resets the 120-day clock to zero. (T.C.A. § 55-10-425).

State-Approved IID Providers in Tennessee

Tennessee requires you to use a state-approved IID provider. Approved providers include:

• Intoxalock
• Smart Start
• LifeSafer
• Alcohol Detection Systems (ADS)
• RoadGuard Interlock (Dräger Interlock 7000 system)
• Simple Interlock (also legally operating as Simple IID)

Specific pricing and program details vary by provider. Contact each company directly for detailed information and quotes.

A Simple Interlock (Simple IID) example:

• Primary Device Model: "The Co-Pilot"
• Sensor Technology: Electrochemical fuel cell.
• Breath Delivery: "Straight Blow" (steady four-second exhalation).
• Camera Integration: Yes, to verify user identity.
• GPS Integration: Yes.
• Standard Fees:
• Monthly Lease Rate: Up to $125.00 (statutory maximum). An initial pre-payment/enrollment fee of $40.00 is generally applied toward the first lease.
• Installation Fee: Up to $75.00 per hour for no more than three hours, totaling a maximum of $225.00.
• Removal Fee: Up to $75.00 (statutory maximum).
• Calibration Fee (Every 30 Days): Estimated $25.00+ per visit.
• Permanent Lockout Reset: Up to $50.00.
• Temporary Lockout Bypass Code: Up to $25.00.

RoadGuard Interlock (Dräger Interlock 7000) example:

• While RoadGuard advertises a localized special offer yielding up to $200 in savings, which includes free initial installation and a $50 credit toward the first month’s lease, this credit excludes mandatory state reporting fees, insurance fees, and applicable local taxes.
• There is also an Administrative Closing Fee of $69.50.
• The device protection plan (DPI), which functions as localized insurance policy against theft or accidental damage to the hardware, is priced at $10.00 per month.

Installation Process and What to Expect

1. Obtain a Court Order: The process begins with a court order (Form SF-0680) specifying the IID requirement.
2. Select a Provider: Choose a state-approved IID provider and schedule an installation appointment at one of their certified service centers.
3. Installation: Present the court order to the installer. The technician will install the device in your vehicle. Mobile installation is strictly prohibited in Tennessee. You are not allowed to observe the installation process to prevent tampering.
4. Training: The installer will provide training on how to use the device.
5. Proof of Installation: The installer will provide you with proof of installation.
6. Restricted License: Take the court order and proof of installation to a Tennessee Driver Services Center to obtain a restricted driver's license with restriction code "16," indicating IID use. The IID usage period begins when the license is issued, but you can receive credit for the time between installation and license issuance if you apply for the license within 10 days of the court order.

Costs Associated with IID Installation and Use

• Installation Fee: Capped by the state. For "A Simple Interlock" is up to $75.00 per hour for no more than three hours, totaling a maximum of $225.00. However, fees for other companies vary.
• Monthly Monitoring/Lease Fee: Up to $125 per month (statutory maximum).
• Calibration Fee: Around $25+ every 30 days.
• Removal Fee: Capped at $75 (statutory maximum).
• Violation/Lockout Fees: Can range from $25 for a temporary bypass code to $50 for a permanent lockout reset.

These costs are in addition to any fines, court fees, and increased insurance premiums resulting from your DUI conviction.

Compliance Violations and Consequences

Tennessee enforces a strict "compliance-based removal" policy. Violations can lead to an extension of your IID requirement. (T.C.A. § 55-10-425).

Tier 1 Violations: These trigger a reset of the 120-day violation-free period.

• BAC of 0.02% or higher.
• Skipped rolling retest.
• Missed 30-day service visit (calibration).

Important Exception: If you fail a test, you have a 10-minute window to retest. If the second test is below 0.02%, and the camera confirms it's the same person, the first failure is disregarded. Carry water with you to rinse your mouth.

Tier 2 Violations: These can result in a restart of the entire 365-day period or more serious penalties.

• Tampering with the device.
• Removing the device without authorization.
• Circumventing the device (e.g., push-starting the car).

If the device records 5 violations, it may enter a "service lockout," preventing the vehicle from starting until reset by a service center.

IID and License Reinstatement in Tennessee

1. Compliance Check: Contact your IID provider to request a compliance check as your 365-day period nears completion.
2. Certificate of Compliance: If you're compliant, the provider sends an electronic Certificate of Compliance to TDOSHS.
3. State Approval: TDOSHS reviews the certificate and, if approved, sends you a "Remove Interlock Restriction" letter (Compliance Form).
4. DMV Visit: Take the removal letter to a Driver Services Center and pay the reinstatement fee. You will receive an unrestricted driver's license without the Code 16 restriction.
5. Device Removal: Only after you have your unrestricted license can you return to the service center to have the IID removed.

Important: Removing the device before obtaining the unrestricted license is a violation and can restart your IID requirement.

The Electronic Monitoring Indigency Fund (EMIF)

Tennessee operates the Electronic Monitoring Indigency Fund (EMIF) to help offenders who cannot afford IID costs. To qualify, you must be receiving benefits from SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), or TennCare (State Medicaid). (Effective April 24, 2025). You must file a Uniform Affidavit of Indigency with the court. If approved, the EMIF will subsidize your IID costs.

Key Takeaways

• Tennessee has strict IID requirements for DUI offenders.
• Compliance is essential to avoid extending your IID period.
• Understand the violation protocols and the "120-day rule."
• Select a state-approved provider and comply with all service requirements.
• Do not remove the device until you have received your unrestricted license.

Navigating Tennessee's IID laws can be complex. Consult with a qualified attorney to ensure you understand your rights and obligations.