Will Ignition Interlock Help Me Get My Minnesota License Back?
If the State of Minnesota takes your license away because of a DWI, you could face long delays before you could get it back. Other than most first time DWIs who may qualify for a limited license, those license suspensions can last for a year or more. The only real alternative for many is ignition interlock which will under most circumstances allow you to drive without delay and without limitations. However, it can be a circuitous process. Let a St. Paul a DWI Lawyer help. Jack Rice Defense has your back.
What Exactly is Ignition Interlock?
Ignition Interlock is essentially a breathalyzer that is placed in your vehicle. It also includes a camera that regularly takes a picture of the driver. If you wish to start your car, you have to be able to blow into the machine to ensure that there is no alcohol in your system. You also will be required to blow into the machine regularly to ensure that you are not drinking alcohol while the car is being operated.
Is Interlock Really Necessary in Order to Drive in Minnesota?
All DWIs in Minnesota comes with a license revocation period. During this period, you cannot drive without a limited license or interlock in your vehicle. Without the interlock device in your vehicle, your license will be suspended.
1. First offense DWIs with a blood alcohol level over .16 resulting in a one-year suspension.
2. First office DWI refusals result in a one-year suspension.
3. Second DWI within a 10-year window results in a 1-2 year suspension.
4. For those with 4 or more DWIs will have their driving privileges will be canceled and inimical to public safety. In order to get your license back, you must go through a rehabilitation process which will also a required interlock.
5. A conviction of a non-fatal great bodily injury also requires interlock for reinstatement.
6. There is an exception for employees driving company vehicles but there are strict limitations regarding usage as well as the business owner’s written consent. See. Minnesota Statute 171.306 subd. 4.
How much does Interlock Cost?
It depends as there are multiple companies that can install and monitor the Interlock device placed on your car. However, there are generally three considerations.
1. The installation fee for putting the device in your car, starting at around $90;
2. The monthly service fee for monitoring your vehicle during the required period, around $3-5 a day;
3. Insurance costs. In order to have Interlock, you are required to self report to your insurance company that you driving with an interlock. This may result in increased premiums or even the possibility that your insurance company may cancel your policy.
What is the Step-by-Step Process to Get Interlock?
1. Pass the DWI written test and pay $680 the reinstatement fee;
2. Apply for a new class D driver’s license and pay the $26.75 application fee;
3. Sign and date the Ignition Interlock Participation Agreement;
4. Provide an insurance certificate signed by his or her insurance company before the device can be installed;
5. Sign and notarize the Special Review Awareness form;
6. Contact Driver and Vehicle Services, Ignition Interlock Unity, 445 Minnesota St., Suite 177, St. Paul, MN 55101. Drop off or mail paperwork in person. Fax paperwork to (651) 797-1299 or email to dvs.iii@state.mn.us
7. DVS will send a letter authorizing the installation of the device to the Interlock company;
8. Have the Interlock device installed. Throughout the required period, the interlock company will notify the State if you are fulfilling your obligations.
Which Interlock Company Should I Use?
According to the State of Minnesota, all six of these companies are certified by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety and meet federal rules for breath alcohol ignition interlock devices and are authorized to install and maintain an interlock device in your car. Our suggestion is to contact them all and look for the best price as well as the best service. Jack Rice Defense can help.
Smart Start MN
Ph: (952) 224-7050
Ph: (866) 966-5245
LifeSafer Interlock, Inc.
Ph: (800) 745-0331
Draeger, Inc.
Ph: (866) 694-6099
LowCost Interlock
Ph: (800) 352-4872
Intoxalock
Ph: (833) 210-8428
Alcohol Countermeasure Systems
www.safestreetsinterlock.comPh: (855) 855-4542
Benefits of Interlock
1. Multiple DWI convictions can result in extensive waiting periods in order to get your license and with interlock, you can avoid that.
2. According to Minnesota Statute 169A.275 subd. 7, you might have the opportunity to avoid mandatory minimum sentencing requirements including mandatory jail time.
Jack Rice Defense Can Help You Navigate this Process.
Because there are time restrictions with license revocations, it is important to sit down with a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist to discuss charge ramifications and time constraints. While this may be your first time, make sure your lawyer can help you navigate through this maze to understand your options.
Whether this is your first DWI license revocation or you have priors, don’t hesitate to give Jack Rice Defense a call. Jack is a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist and can help you understand what you face.