Guest Contributor: Tiftickjian Law Firm
Are you scheduled for an Ignition Interlock extension hearing in Colorado, but you’re not sure what to expect? Let’s go over how extension hearings work, and what you can do regarding next steps in your program.
About Ignition Interlock Extensions
Colorado has a “three strikes and you’re out” policy when it comes to Interlock-restricted licenses. In this case, a “strike” is a failed monthly monitoring report, and an “out” means extension of the license restriction. If the Interlock device prevents a vehicle from starting at any point during a given month due to a failed BAC event, the monitoring report for that month will be a “fail,” and the driver will earn one strike. If the driver receives a failed report in three different months within any consecutive twelve-month period, the driver’s Interlock restriction will be extended for up to another year beyond the original term.
Important! A single failed month is not counted as a “strike” for more than one extension review. So, if the restriction has been extended previously, the strikes from the first extension cannot count as strikes toward a later extension.
After the Third Strike
After a driver receives a third strike, the DMV issues a notice of suspension. The notice advises the driver of the incidents leading to the failed monthly reports – usually, lockouts resulting from a breath alcohol content reading that was at or above the device’s set fail limit.
Upon receiving the notice, the driver has essentially two choices: acknowledge the violations (thereby consenting to the one-year extension of the Interlock restriction) or request a hearing to challenge the ruling or ask for a lesser period of extension.
Accepting the Extension
If the driver accepts the extension, he or she does not have to do much other than sign a new Interlock lease that extends the original agreement for another year and try to avoid any future lockouts. Keeping the Interlock lease intact is important because, if the lease lapses, the driver will lose driving privileges until a new lease is in place and a reinstatement fee is paid.
Important! Some Ignition Interlock companies require long-term leases, which will put you in a bind. Smart Start offers month-to-month leases, so no long-term contracts!
On the other hand, a driver who extends the Interlock lease in response to the notice of violation effectively waives the right to a hearing. So, drivers who intend to contest the Interlock extension should not renew their leases until after their hearing.
Requesting a Hearing
If a driver requests a hearing to challenge an extension notice, the hearing request delays the commencement of the restriction extension until after the hearing. Hearings are generally scheduled promptly, usually about one month in advance.
Prior to the hearing, the Hearing Officer will analyze the data reported by the driver’s Interlock device, and the hearing itself will primarily involve evaluation of that data.
Based upon the results of the hearing, the Hearing Officer has authority to:
(1) uphold the extension as issued,
(2) overturn the extension, or
(3) sustain the extension but reduce the length.
In making this determination, the Hearing Officer will consider all of the Interlock data recorded during the entire time the restriction has been in place. Along with all this data, the Hearing Officer will also consider “aggravating and mitigating” factors. These are factors outside of the raw data itself, which weigh in favor, or against, overturning or reducing the extension.
The circumstances of the driver’s lockouts can be a mitigating factor suggesting a reduced extension. For example, if the driver received only three strikes during a twelve-month period, with each failed month including only one lockout, the Hearing Officer may view a reduced suspension as appropriate.
Whereas a driver with multiple lockouts per month and more than three failed months is less likely to receive a reduction. Similarly, a driver whose lockouts resulted from breath alcohol content barely over the lockout threshold has better prospects for a favorable ruling than a driver whose test results were considerably over the limit.
Other factors the Hearing Officer will take into consideration include:
- Whether the driver persisted in attempting to start the vehicle after a lockout or “walked away” from the vehicle;
- Whether the driver’s lockouts occurred early in the twelve-month review period or more recently;
- Whether the driver’s Interlock restriction was previously extended or renewed;
- Whether the driver has voluntarily entered into treatment for alcohol abuse;
- Whether any evidence suggests that another individual submitted the breath sample leading to one or more of the lockouts (a lockout resulting from someone else’s failed sample still counts as a strike, but can be viewed as a mitigating factor).
Drivers are permitted to submit additional mitigating evidence of other factors which might weigh in favor of reduction or reversal of the extension.
Getting Skilled Help with Ignition Interlock Extension Hearings
Extension hearings can be complicated, and drivers are not always aware of all factors considered by the Hearing Officer or how best to present mitigating evidence. Thus, with a year or more of restricted driving privileges on the line, having a skilled DUI attorney advocating on a driver’s behalf can considerably increase the chances of a favorable ruling. Anyone scheduled for an extension hearing, or considering whether to request a hearing, should consider consulting with an experienced Colorado DUI attorney.
Tiftickjian Law Firm
Denver DUI Lawyer/Attorney
Need to Install an Ignition Interlock in Colorado?
If you need to install an Ignition Interlock in Colorado in your vehicle, choose Smart Start. We will help you get back on the road the quickest with an affordable program, expert help and a reliable device. Schedule your installation appointment today by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.
When Will I Need an Ignition Interlock in Utah?
Do you know if you’ll need an Ignition Interlock in Utah? It might seem a bit confusing since Utah changed its BAC limit to .05, but for most DUI charges, you will most likely need to install and use an Interlock in your vehicle. You may become familiar with the term, Interlock Restricted Driver, or IRD. This means your driving privileges are suspended until you have an Ignition Interlock installed in your vehicle.
Let’s break down Utah’s Ignition Interlock requirements, and go over how long you’ll most likely need to have the device in your vehicle.
Second: Three years
In Utah, if you are under 21-years-old and have a DUI offense, you may need to install an Ignition Interlock for three years.
Please keep in mind that your Ignition Interlock restricted driving period will increase if you drive without the Ignition Interlock installed!
Do you have any questions about Ignition Interlocks in Utah? Smart Start can help answer anything for you through our 24/7/365 Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299.
Need to Install an Ignition Interlock in Utah?
Get back on the road with Smart Start, the most trusted Ignition Interlock provider in Utah. We offer an affordable program, a reliable Ignition Interlock and 24/7/365 customer service, as well as many service locations for your convenience. Schedule your installation appointment and receive a quote by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.
Schedule an Installation
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¡Obtenga una instalación rápida y fácil de IID con Smart Start! ¡Empieza hoy mismo!
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Will I Go to Jail for Failing the Breathalyzer Test?
If you are pulled over on suspicion of a DUI, the officer will ask you to submit to a chemical test to see if you’re intoxicated. This can be in the form of a blood or breath test. So, are you wondering if you may go to jail for failing the roadside breathalyzer test by police?
Will I Go to Jail for Failing the Breathalyzer Test?
In short, yes, there is typically a period of jail-time involved if you fail or refuse the chemical test. At this point, law enforcement knows you are impaired and wants to make sure you are sober before releasing you.
Every jurisdiction has different laws regarding chemical test fails or refusals, so the amount of time you are in jail varies. Typically, this can range from a few hours to a couple of days.
Once the jail period ends, however, below are a couple of typical options that can occur. Keep in mind that each jurisdiction varies with these options as well, but this is a general idea of what to expect.
Bail may be preset, or you may be required to go before a magistrate to set your bail. You must follow the bail guidelines as directed to you by the court. Bail allows you to be released from jail and is intended to ensure you appear for trial and all required pre-trial hearings.
You may be released on your own recognizance without posting bail. This option means you are promising the court that you will come back to attend any court appearance such as your hearing because of your DUI arrest.
Whichever the case, you will have assistance along the way to walk you through the next steps of your DUI case. Your court will provide you paperwork or verbal instructions on what to do.
Ignition Interlock Requirement
If you fail or refuse your chemical test, you may need to install an Ignition Interlock upon arrest or conviction. If you do need an Interlock, make sure to set up an installation appointment with Smart Start and get back on the road right away. With an Ignition Interlock, you may be able to drive again with restricted privileges, allowing you to get to work or school.
Install an Ignition Interlock Now
Schedule your Ignition Interlock appointment today by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.
Schedule an Installation
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When Do I Need a BAIID in Michigan?
Do you know when you’ll need a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device, or BAIID in Michigan? The state requires a BAIID for first-time DUI cases with a .17 BAC or above, and repeat DUI cases.
Below is more information on when exactly you’ll need a BAIID in Michigan.
First DUI in Michigan
In Michigan, you will serve a one-year driver’s license suspension. However, if you’re eligible, the Michigan Secretary of State can issue a restricted driver’s license 45 days after your suspension starts. A restricted license will permit you to operate a vehicle that is equipped with a BAIID to drive to the following locations:
Proof of your BAIID installation is required to receive this restricted driver’s license, which you can receive from your provider, such as Smart Start.
Second or Subsequent DUIs
If you have two more DUI convictions within 10 years, or two or more convictions of drunk or drugged driving in the last seven years, the law considers you a habitual offender. This means the Secretary of State is required to revoke your driver’s license and deny your application for another license. After the license revocation period, you may be eligible for a driver’s license application appeal hearing.
If this restricted driver’s license is ordered, the hearing officer will then require you to install the BAIID on any vehicle you operate.
After Installation of the BAIID
Once your BAIID is installed, Smart Start Michigan will provide you with a BAIID installation form that you can either provide to the ordering sobriety court or take to your local Secretary of State office.
Have any questions? Smart Start can provide the answers with our friendly, 24/7/365 customer service. Please feel free to call us at (800) 831-3299 and we will get you back on the road with the most reliable Ignition Interlock in Michigan.
Install Your Ignition Interlock Now
Schedule your installation appointment and receive a quote today by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out your online form.
Schedule an Installation
Get a quick and easy IID installation with Smart Start! Get started today!
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Can I Disguise My Ignition Interlock?
Can I Disguise My Ignition Interlock?
Are you wondering if you can disguise your Ignition Interlock somehow because of the embarrassment of having a device? There are some companies who sell disguise options, such as a big soda cup, that will fit over your device and still allow you to take your test. This may seem convenient, but remember that Ignition Interlock tests like Smart Start’s only take seconds. Taking a test is so fast that no one passing by would be the wiser!
But if you are still interested in buying a ‘shell’ for your Ignition Interlock, be cautious. Let’s go over why below.
If I Disguise My Ignition Interlock, Is It Worth It?
Is Disguising My Ignition Interlock Allowed?
Make sure that disguising your Ignition Interlock is allowed in your state, and that it does not impede how your device operates. If it does hinder your Ignition Interlock, that will just leave you with more of a headache than it’s worth.
Will a Disguise Fit My Ignition Interlock?
Some of these disguises do not allow a gap for the curly cord that connects to your device. And there is nothing that can be done to hide you taking a test from your passenger, whether it’s in a flamboyantly-decorated soda cup or your regular device.
Disguising an Ignition Interlock Does Not Meet Federal Standards
Smart Start does not offer disguises for our Ignition Interlocks because they have not been tested under federal standards to see if they will perform successfully while contained. We want our clients to experience the most seamless Ignition Interlock program, so every decision we make has you and your convenience in mind.
Additional Costs
The additional cost of a disguised cup and then the possibility of it hindering how your device works may cause a stressful experience. (Some ‘cup’ or ‘soda’ disguises can run up to $30-$60!)
All in all, you may want to take the safe route and use your Ignition Interlock on how it was intended to perform. Not only that, but Smart Start will provide devices that are small, fast and discreet. Our Ignition Interlock can fit snug in the palm of your hand, and allows you to drive again to get back to your life.
Do you have any questions? Feel free to call our Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299 so you can speak to a friendly agent who can assist you.
Need to Install an Ignition Interlock Now?
Smart Start is here for you from device installation to removal. We’ll help you get back on the road in no time! Schedule your installation appointment today by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.
Schedule an Installation
Get a quick and easy IID installation with Smart Start! Get started today!
¡Obtenga una instalación rápida y fácil de IID con Smart Start! ¡Empieza hoy mismo!
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What to Expect After a First DUII in Oregon
Are you feeling a little overwhelmed after your first DUII, or Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants, charge in Oregon? Getting a DUII may not be the best situation, but don’t fret. If you comply with your requirements, this will all be behind you and you’ll reinstate your driving privileges in no time.
So, what can you expect after a first DUII in Oregon? Let’s go over the different circumstances that can occur.
First DUII in Oregon Law
First, you should know that your court appearance due to your DUII can vary by county. If you hire an attorney, they can help you with next steps, or your court contact.
Next Steps: Installing an Ignition Interlock, Filing for SR-22 and Applying for a Hardship License
If you do have an attorney, they may advise you to install an Ignition Interlock before your hearing. In addition, they can tell you to file for an SR-22 and immediately apply for a hardship driver’s license. Did you refuse your breath test? This means you must wait 90 days before applying for the hardship license.
A hardship driver’s license means limited driving privileges, and can be provided to you when your normal driver’s license has been revoked or suspended. You can visit the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles, or DMV, website for a hardship license request form.
Mail your request form once it is filled out to this address:
DMV
1905 Lana Avenue NE
Salem, OR 97314
DUII Evaluation and Treatment Course
Then, your attorney or court may ask you to go receive a DUII evaluation from an Alcohol and Other Drug Screening specialist, or ADES, in your county of arrest. You can also check with your ADES agent if you need to sign up for a treatment course. In most cases, your agent will let you know, but these courses are typically for individuals in the diversion program. This decision is ultimately with your court, however.
Court Hearing and Conviction
Now your court hearing date is coming up. This date typically is within 90 days from your arrest, but can average between 30 to 120 days. Below is what can happen as a result of your court hearing, whether you’re in the diversion program or convicted of a first DUII.
Ignition Interlock Installation and Length of Time
If you are in the diversion program, your license suspension period and time with your Ignition Interlock will be one year. You may become eligible for six months with an Ignition Interlock with a clear report. Make sure to ask your Ignition Interlock vendor about this report, and what they can do to assist you. Providers such as Smart Start will send this report for you to your treatment center and your attorney if requested. From there, your attorney will take the report to your court and petition to have the Ignition Interlock removed early.
A first DUII conviction will mean a 30-day license suspension, then a year with the Ignition Interlock. (Remember that you can immediately apply for your hardship license with the Oregon DMV!)
If you refused your breath test, this will mean a one-year license suspension, but after 90 days, you can apply for the hardship license after installing an Ignition Interlock and filing for an SR-22.
Your Ignition Interlock Provider in Oregon
Who you choose as your Ignition Interlock provider can make a world of difference. After all, depending on your requirements, you will need to see them and speak with them on a regular basis until your Ignition Interlock is removed.
Smart Start knows what to do to get you back on the road so we can help you along the way, from your device installation to its removal.
Have any questions? Feel free to call our 24/7/365 Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299. Our friendly team is available to walk you through what you need to do to reinstate your driving privileges. If you’re ready to install an Ignition Interlock, you can reach out to us, or fill out our online form.
Need to Install an Ignition Interlock in Oregon?
Let Smart Start help you get back on the road with an affordable program, a reliable device and helpful customer service! Over a million drivers since 1992 have gotten back on the road because of a Smart Start Ignition Interlock, and we can help you, too. Schedule your installation appointment today by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.
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¡Obtenga una instalación rápida y fácil de IID con Smart Start! ¡Empieza hoy mismo!
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Everything Colorado Drivers Need to Know About Ignition Interlock Extension Hearings
Guest Contributor: Tiftickjian Law Firm
Are you scheduled for an Ignition Interlock extension hearing in Colorado, but you’re not sure what to expect? Let’s go over how extension hearings work, and what you can do regarding next steps in your program.
About Ignition Interlock Extensions
Colorado has a “three strikes and you’re out” policy when it comes to Interlock-restricted licenses. In this case, a “strike” is a failed monthly monitoring report, and an “out” means extension of the license restriction. If the Interlock device prevents a vehicle from starting at any point during a given month due to a failed BAC event, the monitoring report for that month will be a “fail,” and the driver will earn one strike. If the driver receives a failed report in three different months within any consecutive twelve-month period, the driver’s Interlock restriction will be extended for up to another year beyond the original term.
Important! A single failed month is not counted as a “strike” for more than one extension review. So, if the restriction has been extended previously, the strikes from the first extension cannot count as strikes toward a later extension.
After the Third Strike
After a driver receives a third strike, the DMV issues a notice of suspension. The notice advises the driver of the incidents leading to the failed monthly reports – usually, lockouts resulting from a breath alcohol content reading that was at or above the device’s set fail limit.
Upon receiving the notice, the driver has essentially two choices: acknowledge the violations (thereby consenting to the one-year extension of the Interlock restriction) or request a hearing to challenge the ruling or ask for a lesser period of extension.
Accepting the Extension
If the driver accepts the extension, he or she does not have to do much other than sign a new Interlock lease that extends the original agreement for another year and try to avoid any future lockouts. Keeping the Interlock lease intact is important because, if the lease lapses, the driver will lose driving privileges until a new lease is in place and a reinstatement fee is paid.
Important! Some Ignition Interlock companies require long-term leases, which will put you in a bind. Smart Start offers month-to-month leases, so no long-term contracts!
On the other hand, a driver who extends the Interlock lease in response to the notice of violation effectively waives the right to a hearing. So, drivers who intend to contest the Interlock extension should not renew their leases until after their hearing.
Requesting a Hearing
If a driver requests a hearing to challenge an extension notice, the hearing request delays the commencement of the restriction extension until after the hearing. Hearings are generally scheduled promptly, usually about one month in advance.
Prior to the hearing, the Hearing Officer will analyze the data reported by the driver’s Interlock device, and the hearing itself will primarily involve evaluation of that data.
Based upon the results of the hearing, the Hearing Officer has authority to:
(1) uphold the extension as issued,
(2) overturn the extension, or
(3) sustain the extension but reduce the length.
In making this determination, the Hearing Officer will consider all of the Interlock data recorded during the entire time the restriction has been in place. Along with all this data, the Hearing Officer will also consider “aggravating and mitigating” factors. These are factors outside of the raw data itself, which weigh in favor, or against, overturning or reducing the extension.
The circumstances of the driver’s lockouts can be a mitigating factor suggesting a reduced extension. For example, if the driver received only three strikes during a twelve-month period, with each failed month including only one lockout, the Hearing Officer may view a reduced suspension as appropriate.
Whereas a driver with multiple lockouts per month and more than three failed months is less likely to receive a reduction. Similarly, a driver whose lockouts resulted from breath alcohol content barely over the lockout threshold has better prospects for a favorable ruling than a driver whose test results were considerably over the limit.
Other factors the Hearing Officer will take into consideration include:
Drivers are permitted to submit additional mitigating evidence of other factors which might weigh in favor of reduction or reversal of the extension.
Getting Skilled Help with Ignition Interlock Extension Hearings
Extension hearings can be complicated, and drivers are not always aware of all factors considered by the Hearing Officer or how best to present mitigating evidence. Thus, with a year or more of restricted driving privileges on the line, having a skilled DUI attorney advocating on a driver’s behalf can considerably increase the chances of a favorable ruling. Anyone scheduled for an extension hearing, or considering whether to request a hearing, should consider consulting with an experienced Colorado DUI attorney.
Tiftickjian Law Firm
Denver DUI Lawyer/Attorney
Need to Install an Ignition Interlock in Colorado?
If you need to install an Ignition Interlock in Colorado in your vehicle, choose Smart Start. We will help you get back on the road the quickest with an affordable program, expert help and a reliable device. Schedule your installation appointment today by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.
Schedule an Installation
Get a quick and easy IID installation with Smart Start! Get started today!
¡Obtenga una instalación rápida y fácil de IID con Smart Start! ¡Empieza hoy mismo!
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When Will I Need an Ignition Interlock in Wisconsin?
Are you wondering if you need an Ignition Interlock after an OWI (or Operating While Intoxicated) arrest or conviction in Wisconsin? Currently, Wisconsin requires Ignition Interlock Devices for OWI first-time cases with a BAC of .15 or greater, or repeat cases. In addition, any drivers who refuse to provide a breath or blood sample for a chemical test at a traffic stop will need an Ignition Interlock.
Ignition Interlock Law in Wisconsin
If you are ordered to use an Ignition Interlock in Wisconsin, the device must be installed in every vehicle you own. During your restricted driving privileges period, you can only operate an Ignition Interlock-equipped vehicle.
In most cases, you will be advised to install your Ignition Interlock at the point before your case is adjudicated, or post-conviction.
Applying for an Occupational License in Wisconsin
In some OWI cases, you can choose to apply for an Occupational License from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You must have an Ignition Interlock installed in every vehicle registered or titled under your name (unless the court exempts).
This license will allow you to drive to and from work, school, or to take care of essential household activities with an Ignition Interlock equipped in the vehicle you operate. Before you can have an Occupational License, however, you must serve a mandatory license revocation or suspension period. Below are the different cases based on offense and/or charge regarding when you can apply for the Occupational License.
Updated: July 2018
Don’t worry if you need to install an Ignition Interlock in Wisconsin! Ignition Interlocks will get you back on the road safely so you can have a normal life again, and travel to work or school. With Smart Start, a state-certified provider, our Ignition Interlock breath tests only take seconds to complete and is among the easiest to use in Wisconsin.
Need to Install an Ignition Interlock in Wisconsin?
Smart Start Wisconsin is here to provide you with an affordable program, a reliable Ignition Interlock and 24/7/365 customer service. We have many convenient service locations throughout the state, and we will get you back on the road the quickest! Since 1992, we’ve helped over a million drivers with our Ignition Interlock across the U.S.! Schedule your installation appointment now by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.
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NEWS: Alberta Changes Drunk Driving, Ignition Interlock Laws
Alberta law is enhancing its drunk driving and Ignition Interlock law. The effective month was in April 2018.
Officers in Alberta are now able to issue an immediate 90-day license suspension during roadside stops for drivers whose blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is at least .08 or higher. This law also applies to drivers impaired by drugs, or both alcohol and drugs, and those who fail or refuse breath or blood tests.
Another provision is an immediate three-day vehicle seizure, or seven-day seizure, for second and subsequent impaired driving occurrences.
New Ignition Interlock Requirements
Following the 90-day suspension, drivers must install an Ignition Interlock for one year. An Ignition Interlock connects to the vehicle’s ignition system and requires the driver to provide a breath test that’s above its set fail limit before the vehicle will start. Need more information on Alberta’s Ignition Interlock program?
With these changes to Alberta’s drunk driving law, drivers can get back on the road safely again with an Ignition Interlock. If you do need an Ignition Interlock, Smart Start can provide you a reliable device and an affordable program.
Need an Ignition Interlock?
If you live in Canada, call our local team today at 844-432-4776. We currently operate in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
In the U.S.? Call our Customer Care Center now to start driving again at (800) 831-3299 or fill out our short online form.
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What to Expect After a First DUI Offense in Pennsylvania
Updated November 26, 2024
While every Pennsylvania DUI case is different, anyone facing their first DUI offense should go into the process with a basic idea of what they’ll be facing. So, what happens when you get a DUI in PA on your first offense? Below, we’ll provide general information about dealing with a DUI in Pennsylvania and what you can expect to happen.
Overview of First Time DUI Laws in Pennsylvania
What Is Considered a DUI in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania law defines a DUI as follows:
Note that you don’t have to be driving at the time to have “actual physical control” of your vehicle. The law also goes on to note that being impaired by controlled substances (including cannabis) can also qualify as a DUI.
Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Levels in Pennsylvania
Under Pennsylvania law, DUI is divided into three tiers, based on your BAC as determined by breathalyzer or blood draw. The higher your BAC, the more strict the penalties will be. According to the Pennsylvania DOT, the tiers are:
Note that if you refuse to take a breathalyzer or blood test, or an officer determines you to be under the influence of a controlled substance, you may be placed in the “Highest BAC” category.
Penalties for a DUI in Pennsylvania On First Offense
While a first-time DUI is not a felony in Pennsylvania, the penalties you’ll face can still be a significant disruption in your life. Here, we’ll take a quick look at some of the main penalties for a first DUI in PA.
Fines and Monetary Penalties
Fines can vary widely depending on your BAC, the circumstances of your arrest, and other factors. The State of Pennsylvania lists some of the costs you can expect to face after a DUI, which typically include (among others):
Jail Time
According to the Pennsylvania DOT, for someone with no prior DUI offenses and whose BAC is in the lowest tier, a DUI may come with up to six months’ probation, but usually no jail time unless aggravating factors are present (such as an accident or a minor riding in the vehicle). If your BAC was in the High tier and you have no prior DUI offenses, you could face between 48 hours and six months in jail, and in the Highest tier with no prior DUI offenses, the minimum jail time increases to 72 hours.
License Suspension or Revocation
If your BAC is in the High or Highest range and you have no prior DUI offenses, the court may suspend your license for 12 months. Drivers with a lower BAC with no prior DUI offenses may be able to avoid having their license suspended.
However, in all three tiers, you’ll be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle. This device requires the driver to provide a breath test sample below a predetermined standard in order to start the vehicle engine. We’ll talk more about Ignition Interlock Devices under “Reinstating Your Driver’s License” below.
Diversion Programs and ARD
Pennsylvania courts offer a program called Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) that’s designed to give first-time offenders the chance to rehabilitate themselves. The court will require you to fulfill various conditions, usually including taking drug and alcohol education classes and performing community service. Completing the ARD conditions makes you eligible to have your DUI charge expunged from your criminal record.
To be eligible for ARD, you usually cannot have participated in an ARD program within the past ten years, and your arrest can’t involve any aggravating factors like minors in the vehicle or an accident with injuries. Whether or not you are eligible for ARD depends on the prosecutor’s discretion, and factors like BAC can also affect whether ARD is an option for you. Your lawyer can advise you if you are likely to qualify for ARD and can guide you through completing and filing your application for the program.
Impact of a First-Time DUI on Insurance in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania SR-22 Insurance Requirements
In many states, drivers with a DUI have to obtain a special insurance certificate called an SR-22, but it may not be required in Pennsylvania. However, it’s still important to check which insurance PennDOT requires you to carry. That said, you should be ready to pay significantly higher insurance costs after a DUI, since most insurance companies will raise your rates once you are convicted.
Recovering from a First-Time DUI in Pennsylvania
Reinstating Your Driver’s License
If your license has been suspended for a first-time DUI offense in Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania DUI laws may offer you the option to maintain your driving privileges if you install an Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle. For a first offense, one year with an Interlock Device is a common requirement. Note that the Interlock Device must be installed on all vehicles you own or lease.
Once you’ve completed any court-ordered requirements, you can apply to have your driver’s license reinstated by the Pennsylvania DOT. The conditions to have your license restored are different for every driver, so you’ll need to access your restoration requirements letter through the Pennsylvania DOT website. If you don’t access your letter through the website, the DOT will mail you a copy of the letter 30 days before you become eligible to have your license restored.
The conditions of reinstatement will often include education or rehabilitation programs, community service, and paying fines or restitution. Once you’ve completed the conditions, follow the letter’s instructions for how to apply for license reinstatement.
If you’re facing your first DUI in Pennsylvania, finding an affordable, common-sense Ignition Interlock solution is a high priority. It’s easy to get started — contact our Program Advisors today to get a free consultation and set up your quick and easy appointment with a trained installer at a Smart Start location near you.
Schedule an Installation
Get a quick and easy IID installation with Smart Start! Get started today!
¡Obtenga una instalación rápida y fácil de IID con Smart Start! ¡Empieza hoy mismo!
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What Happens if I Have a Vehicle Service Appointment with an Ignition Interlock Installed?
So you’ve got your Ignition Interlock installed. Now it turns out that you need to get to your oil change appointment. Or you have some other vehicle maintenance services to attend to. If this is the case, there’s no need to worry about vehicle service appointments if you do have a Smart Start Ignition Interlock equipped.
With Smart Start, you are in good hands, no matter what! All that you need to do is go through our simple process with our vehicle service procedure.
Getting to a Vehicle Service Appointment with an Ignition Interlock
Our process will provide a simple solution if you need vehicle service on your Ignition Interlock-equipped vehicle. Since each state has different requirements for when your vehicle needs service, we have vehicle service instructions that are separated by state on our website. View your state’s instructions from our website and provide them to your mechanic during your appointment.
In general, however, the mechanic needs to call Smart Start from their business phone to let us know your vehicle is being serviced or worked on. That way, your Ignition Interlock provider knows what’s going on. Keep in mind that we can only speak to your mechanic regarding vehicle service instructions!
IMPORTANT! Make sure you keep all your service receipts handy! If a lockout should occur during your service appointment, your receipt will be proof that your vehicle was getting service at the time.
Have any questions? We’re here to help! Our customer service agents can assist you any time, even during weekends and holidays, at (800) 831-3299.
Need an Ignition Interlock Now?
Smart Start can help you as the most reliable Ignition Interlock provider! We offer our clients convenient locations throughout the U.S., an affordable program and a discreet Ignition Interlock Device. Schedule your installation appointment now by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.
Schedule an Installation
Get a quick and easy IID installation with Smart Start! Get started today!
¡Obtenga una instalación rápida y fácil de IID con Smart Start! ¡Empieza hoy mismo!
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