The Ignition Interlock Program encourages safe driving by preventing those involved in the program from driving a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol.
An ignition interlock device is an in-vehicle, alcohol breath screening device that is wired into the vehicle’s ignition. The device will prevent the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected or will sound an alarm if the vehicle is in motion.
The device is installed and maintained by Smart Start Inc., and results are monitored by Driver Fitness.
Who must participate?
Drivers convicted of an impaired driving related offence (alcohol or drugs), and drivers who fail or refuse an approved screening device, are required to participate in the program.
In some cases, you may be able to participate during your suspension if you are granted conditional driving privileges by the Licence Suspension Appeal Board.
Installation requirements
The following steps are required to have an ignition interlock device installed in a vehicle:
- All outstanding licensing requirements must be satisfied prior to getting a licence. These might include, but are not limited to: an assessment from the Impaired Driver Program, medical or retesting requirements, or outstanding arrears.
- If your licence is currently suspended, you must be granted conditional driving privileges by the Licence Suspension Appeal Board.
- You must participate in a licence reinstatement interview in order to obtain the documentation required for the program. Contact Driver Fitness to schedule an interview.
- Once you have completed the interview, contact Smart Start Inc. to book an installation appointment. Once the installation of the ignition interlock device is complete, you will receive a certificate of installation.
- If all other requirements above have been met, visit an MPI Service Centre with the certificate of installation and completed ignition interlock application to reactivate your licence.
Costs
All costs related to the Ignition Interlock Program are your responsibility. The following are the basic charges that apply:
- Administration charge: $250
- Installation charge: $145
- Monitoring charge: $89 a month
- Removal charge: $50
Rules and requirements
You are responsible for all breath samples on your ignition interlock device. All information recorded by the device will be monitored by Driver Fitness, including failures and other violations.
When you are in the program, you must:
- Not use alcohol before driving.
- Attend Smart Start Inc. at regular intervals to have the results from the ignition interlock device retrieved.
- Maintain an active licence in the program for a minimum of 365 days after your suspension has ended.
- Only drive vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device.
If you do not comply with the requirements of the program, you risk:
- An extension of your term in the program.
- Removal from the program.
- Driver’s licence suspensions.
- Charges and vehicle impoundment.
Please note: Tampering with the ignition interlock device can result in fines or imprisonment.