Rhode Island Ignition Interlock Lawyer

Yes, but it complicates things. If you drive an employer-owned vehicle as part of your job, that vehicle requires an interlock during the mandatory period. Employer cooperation is needed for installation and monthly service. Many drivers transition to a personal vehicle during the interlock period to keep employment separate.

Tampering is a separate criminal charge. The DMV revokes the hardship license and extends the suspension. Disconnecting power, removing the device, or using compressed air to fool it all register as tampering. The device records every event and the data downloads to the DMV at every service appointment.

False positives happen. Common causes: mouthwash, breath spray, NyQuil, asthma inhalers, fermented food, sourdough bread, GERD/acid reflux, ketosis from diabetes. Document the cause within the time window. Device malfunction can also produce false readings. We can challenge violations based on documented false positive sources.

Only if the interlock requirement does not apply to your case (lower-BAC first offense without aggravating factors). When the statute mandates interlock - second offense, third offense, BAC 0.15+, child passenger enhancement - the device must be installed before the license issues.

Installation runs $75 to $150. Monthly monitoring and calibration runs $70 to $90. Removal is $50 to $75. A 1-year interlock period totals approximately $900 to $1,200. A 2-year period totals $1,800 to $2,400. The driver pays all costs. Indigent reductions are available with court approval.

For a first offense the interlock period is typically 6 months. Second offense requires 1 year. Third offense requires 2 years. First offense with BAC 0.15+ also triggers mandatory interlock. The clock starts on the day of reinstatement, not the day of arrest or conviction.