---
title: "Ignition Interlock Device: A Tool to Curb DUIs"
description: "Rhode Island's ignition interlock law (RIGL § 31-27-2.8) requires installation of an approved ignition interlock device on the vehicles of certain DUI offenders before driving privileges are..."
url: https://riduiguy.com/ignition-interlock-device-tool/
date: 2018-04-18
modified: 2026-04-27
author: "The RI DUI Guy"
categories: ["Blog"]
type: post
lang: en
---

# Ignition Interlock Device: A Tool to Curb DUIs

Rhode Island's ignition interlock law (RIGL § 31-27-2.8) requires installation of an approved ignition interlock device on the vehicles of certain DUI offenders before driving privileges are restored. The device measures breath alcohol before allowing the engine to start, and intermittently while the vehicle is in motion. For most defendants, the interlock requirement adds 1 to 2 years of monitoring on top of the underlying license suspension — and roughly $1,000 to $1,400 per year in out-of-pocket cost.

This page covers when an ignition interlock is mandatory, how the device works, what it costs, and how the requirement interacts with hardship licensing. For the broader DUI framework, see (https://www.riduiguy.com/ri-dui-laws/). For penalty detail, see (https://www.riduiguy.com/ri-dui-penalties/).

## What Is an Ignition Interlock Device?

An ignition interlock is an in-vehicle breath alcohol analyzer wired to the ignition system. Before the engine starts, the driver provides a breath sample through a mouthpiece on the device. If the sample is below the lockout threshold (Rhode Island sets this at 0.025% BAC), the engine starts. If alcohol is detected above the threshold, the engine does not start, and the failed reading is logged and reported to the DMV.

While the vehicle is in motion, the device prompts random "rolling" retests at intervals — typically every 15 to 30 minutes. A failed rolling retest does not stop the engine mid-drive (a safety hazard) but is logged and triggers warning lights and the horn until the vehicle is shut off.

## When Ignition Interlock Is Required in Rhode Island

Under RIGL § 31-27-2.8, the interlock is mandatory in the following situations:

- **1st-offense DUI with BAC 0.15 or higher** — mandatory for the duration of the suspension and a follow-on period after license reinstatement

- **Any 2nd or 3rd-offense DUI conviction** — mandatory for 1 to 2 years (2nd offense) or 2 years (3rd offense) post-reinstatement

- **DUI manslaughter (§ 31-27-2.2)** — mandatory following any prison term and license reinstatement

- **Hardship licenses during suspension** — almost always carry an interlock condition, particularly for repeat offenses or BAC 0.15+

- **DUI with child passenger (§ 31-27-2.6)** — mandatory at all BAC tiers regardless of whether interlock would otherwise apply

For first-offense convictions in BAC tier 1 (0.08 to 0.10), the interlock is discretionary, not mandatory. A judge can order it as part of the sentence but is not required to.

## The Cost of an Ignition Interlock Device

| Item | Typical Cost |
| --- | --- |
| Installation | $75–$150 one-time |
| Monthly monitoring/calibration | $70–$90 per month |
| Removal | $50–$100 one-time |
| State ignition interlock restriction fee | $100 |
| Hardship license fee | $6.50 |

Total annual cost typically runs $1,000 to $1,400 over a 12-month interlock period. For a 2-year requirement (typical second offense), expect $2,000 to $2,800 in interlock costs alone — separate from court fines, reinstatement fees, and the SR-22 insurance increase.

## Approved Devices and Vendors

Rhode Island maintains an approved-device list under DMV regulations. Only certified vendors may install, calibrate, and remove the device. Common approved vendors include Smart Start, Intoxalock, LifeSafer, and Draeger Interlock. The DMV publishes the current approved list.

## Hardship Licenses and the Interlock

If you obtain a hardship license during the suspension period, the hardship privilege almost always carries an interlock condition for the duration. See (https://www.riduiguy.com/hardship-license/) for eligibility and process.

## Interlock Violations

Violations are tracked and reported automatically. Common violations include failed start attempts at or above 0.025% BAC, failed rolling retests, tampering or bypass attempts, missed calibration appointments, and driving a non-equipped vehicle. Each violation can extend the interlock period, trigger a Traffic Tribunal hearing, or result in a new criminal charge for circumventing the device.

## How a Defense Lawyer Helps

The interlock requirement is non-trivial — it lengthens the practical license restriction by months or years and adds substantial out-of-pocket cost. In many first-offense and refusal cases, the defense strategy at the plea stage focuses on minimizing or avoiding the interlock condition entirely. Reductions to reckless driving (RIGL § 31-27-4) typically avoid the interlock requirement.

If you are facing a Rhode Island DUI charge that may trigger ignition interlock, contact (https://www.chadbanklaw.com/) for a confidential consultation. Available 24/7 at 401-573-2265.