Do I Have to Take a Random Retest on my Ignition Interlock Device While I’m Driving?

Now that you have an Ignition Interlock Device, you should be comfortable with how it works. However, after taking your initial test to start your vehicle, your Interlock Device will prompt for a random rolling retest, and allow adequate time for you to move your vehicle to a safe area and complete the test.

What Are Random Rolling Retests?

Actually, a “random rolling retest” isn’t the right term. You shouldn’t be rolling at all, because it can put you in danger.

It’s very important that you:

• Do not attempt to perform the retest while you are driving.
• Pull safely into a place away from traffic.
• Put your car in park without shutting it off, and perform the retest.

Rolling retests happen a few minutes after you start driving your vehicle. The Interlock Device will prompt you by making a sound and displaying the word BLOW on its screen. The screen will also show your time remaining to perform the test.

Rolling retests are very helpful to you during your program. These tests confirm that you are complying with your court or state-administered Interlock Device requirements while you are driving. Initial tests will allow your vehicle to start, but the random retests that happen during your drive validate your sobriety while on the road.

Rolling retests are under the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)’s Ignition Interlock model specifications. The organization states that,  ‘‘NHTSA does not intend that retests be conducted while the vehicle is moving, but rather while the engine is running with the vehicle stopped in a safe location on the side of the road.’’ (75 Fed. Reg. 61824.) Rolling retests are also included in the Association of Ignition Interlock Program Administrators (AIIPA) and American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) best practices recommendations for Ignition Interlock Devices.

Your Engine Will Never Stop During a Random Retest

Nothing is more important than the safety of our clients. Even if you fail the test, your vehicle will continue to run.

Smart Start hopes you continue to have a successful and seamless Interlock Device program. Remember, you can always call our bilingual, 24/7/365 customer care center for assistance.

If you need to make an Interlock Device installation appointment, call Smart Start at (800) 831-3299, or fill out our quick and simple online form for a quote in your area.