What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?

An IID is a device the size of a hand held calculator that prevents a vehicle from starting if it detects a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) over a pre-set level.

Do I have to have an IID installed on my work vehicle?

No

I was convicted of DUI 1 st in Magistrate's Court, yet the DMV says I am required to use the IID. Why?

Placement in the IID Program is based on current and prior convictions as maintained by the DMV pursuant to Section 56-5-2941 (A)(2)(a) of the South Carolina Code.

Another person drives my vehicle sometimes. Will they have to blow into the IID to operate my vehicle?

Yes

Is enrollment into the IID Program mandatory?

No

How much does the IID program cost?

Cost to have the device installed and monthly fees will vary among vendors.

What happens if I choose not to enroll in the IID Program?

Your license will be suspended for three (3) more years from the date the initial suspension ends.

What happens if I drive my vehicle without an IID?

This is a new offense and would result in new charges against you.

What if I own/drive multiple vehicles?

The statute requires an interlock device on all vehicles you own or routinely operate.

How long am I required to be in the IID program?

The length of time you are required to participate will vary depending on the number of convictions you have received. The minimum length of time in the program is two years for those having two convictions, three years for those having three convictions and lifetime for those having four or more convictions. Additionally, the time you are required to be in the program will be extended if you accumulate IID points.

What if the vehicle is not registered to me?

You must install an ignition interlock device in the vehicle that you routinely operate, regardless of who is listed on the registration.

Where do I go to have the IID Installed?

A list of certified vendors is located on the SCDPPPS website.

Will the IID turn off the vehicle while I'm driving?

No, at no point will the ignition interlock device shut off a vehicle.

Do I have to blow into the device while I am driving?

Periodically the device will indicate to the driver that they need to blow into the device. When instructed, the driver must provide a breath sample.

What happens if I have repair work done on a car with an IID?

You should inform the vendor prior to having the vehicle worked on and then present the receipt at the next calibration appointment. Note that anytime the battery is disconnected due to service work, you must bring a repair receipt to the next appointment.

Where do I go to have the IID removed?

You must go to the same vendor who installed the device to have it removed.

What is a “calibration appointment?”

Every 60 days you are required to take your vehicle into the installer and have the IID inspected and calibrated. Failure to have this calibration completed will result in one ignition interlock point.

How do I set up calibration appointments?

You are responsible for making arrangements to have the device calibrated at least every 60 days.

What happens if I sell my vehicle?

Prior to selling the vehicle you must have the IID removed by the same vendor who installed it.

I received Ignition Interlock points? What happens now?

If you receive a letter from the S. C. Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services (SCDPPPS) indicating that you received Ignition Interlock Points (IIP's) you have the right to appeal these points to a SCDPPPS Hearing Officer. Simply send a copy of the letter sent to you by SCDPPPS, a statement regarding why you think you should not have been assessed points, and any supporting documentation to your claim to SCDPPPS – Ignition Interlock Appeal, P.O. Box 50666, Columbia, SC 29250. You have 15 days from the date of the letter to you to send in your appeal. SCDPPPS will notify you via mail regarding the outcome of your appeal.

Updated 12-29-08