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Breath Lock Device for Cars: How Ignition Interlock Works in Georgia
What Is a Breath Lock Device?
A breath lock device – formally called an ignition interlock device (IID) – is a small breathalyzer wired into a vehicle's ignition system. It stops the engine from starting if it detects alcohol on the driver's breath. Courts and the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) order these devices for drivers convicted of DUI. You may also hear them called a "car breathalyzer" or "blow-and-go."
The device sits on or near the dashboard. It connects to the vehicle's starter circuit. Before the car will start, the driver must blow into a mouthpiece. The driver must provide a clean breath sample. Georgia uses these devices to keep impaired drivers off the road. The device still allows drivers to travel for work, school, and other essential needs.
How Does a Breath Lock Device Work?
The process starts when the driver picks up the handset and blows into the mouthpiece. A fuel cell sensor inside the device measures the breath alcohol concentration (BAC). If the reading falls below the preset threshold – typically 0.02 BAC in Georgia – the ignition unlocks. The vehicle starts normally. If the reading is at or above the threshold, the device locks the ignition and records the failed attempt.
Once the vehicle is running, the device requires rolling retests. These are random breath samples the driver must provide while driving – usually every 15 to 45 minutes. The device alerts the driver with a tone when a retest is due. The driver then has a few minutes to pull over safely and provide a sample.
If the driver fails a rolling retest, the device does not shut off the engine. Cutting the engine at highway speed would create a serious safety hazard. Instead, the device logs the failed test. It may trigger the vehicle's horn and lights to flash until the driver turns off the car. The event is recorded and reported to DDS at the next calibration appointment.
Many newer models include a small camera. This camera photographs the person blowing into the mouthpiece. It prevents someone else from providing the breath sample for the driver. This is a common form of circumvention. The camera effectively eliminates this risk.
Who Is Required to Install a Breath Lock Device in Georgia?
Georgia law sets out specific situations where a court or DDS will require an ignition interlock device. Under Georgia law, an IID is generally required for:
- Second or subsequent DUI convictions within five years. A second DUI triggers a mandatory interlock requirement as a condition of license reinstatement.
- Drivers seeking early license reinstatement. After a DUI suspension, drivers who want an interlock-restricted permit before their full suspension period ends must install a device.
- Some first-offense DUI cases. A first-offense DUI driver who seeks a limited driving permit may face an interlock requirement depending on the circumstances.
The Georgia Department of Driver Services issues the interlock-restricted license. Drivers must apply through DDS and show proof of installation from a state-approved provider. Drivers must also carry SR-22 insurance.
Requirements can differ for underage drivers and commercial license holders. Underage DUI offenders face stricter BAC limits and longer interlock periods. Commercial drivers may lose their CDL rights entirely. A device on a personal car does not restore commercial driving rights.
Many drivers do not know they can apply for an interlock permit fairly soon after a second DUI arrest. We have helped second-offense clients obtain interlock permits. This allowed them to keep driving to work while their case moved through court.
How Long Do You Have to Keep a Breath Lock Device Installed?
The required interlock period depends on the number of DUI offenses and the terms of the court order or DDS restriction.
For a second DUI offense, the minimum interlock period is typically 12 months on an interlock-restricted permit. Third or subsequent offenses carry longer requirements that can stretch well beyond a year.
An important detail many drivers overlook: the clock only runs during compliant use. If the device logs violations, DDS can extend the required period. Violations include failed breath tests, missed rolling retests, missed calibration appointments, or evidence of tampering. Each violation may add months to the timeline.
Removing the device takes a court order or DDS approval. The state-approved provider must submit a final compliance report. This report shows the driver met all the rules during the interlock period. DDS must review the report and confirm you complied. Only then can the driver have the device removed and apply for a full, unrestricted license.
How Much Does a Breath Lock Device Cost?
The driver pays all costs for the interlock device. Georgia does not cover these expenses. Typical costs break down as follows:
| Cost Component | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Installation fee | $75 – $150 |
| Monthly monitoring and calibration | $70 – $100 per month |
| Removal fee | $50 – $100 |
| Estimated annual total | $1,000 – $1,500 |
Monthly calibration appointments are mandatory. During these visits, the provider downloads data from the device and checks for tampering. The provider recalibrates the sensor and reports results to DDS. Missing a calibration appointment counts as a violation.
For drivers who cannot afford the costs, Georgia maintains an Ignition Interlock Device Fund that may provide financial assistance. Eligibility depends on the driver's income and finances. Drivers can ask the court or contact DDS for information about applying for assistance.
Installation and Daily Use: What to Expect
Installation takes about two to three hours at a state-certified interlock provider. A technician wires the device into the vehicle's ignition system. The technician mounts a handheld unit on or near the dashboard and trains the driver on how to use the device. Training covers proper blowing technique and how to handle rolling retests.
Daily use follows a consistent routine. Before starting the car, the driver picks up the handset and blows steadily into the mouthpiece for a few seconds. Then the driver waits for the result. A passing test unlocks the ignition. While driving, the device signals when a rolling retest is due – typically every 15 to 45 minutes. The driver should pull over when safe to provide the sample.
Drivers must return to the provider every 30 to 60 days for calibration. These appointments usually take 20 to 30 minutes.
Common false positive triggers catch many drivers off guard. Mouthwash containing alcohol, certain breath mints, hand sanitizer fumes, sourdough bread, and very ripe fruit can produce a trace alcohol reading. Drivers should rinse their mouth with water and wait two to three minutes before blowing. The device typically allows a short window to retest if the first attempt fails.
Consequences of Tampering With or Circumventing a Breath Lock Device
Tampering with, disconnecting, or having someone else blow into an ignition interlock device is a criminal offense in Georgia. Under Georgia law, circumventing the device carries serious consequences:
- Extended interlock requirements. DDS can add months or even restart the interlock period entirely.
- Permit revocation. DDS may revoke the permit, leaving the driver with no legal way to drive.
- New criminal charges. Tampering is a separate offense that can bring extra fines and jail time on top of the original DUI penalties.
Modern devices make cheating very hard to hide. Every breath test, failed attempt, missed retest, and power cut is logged with a timestamp. Models with cameras photograph the person giving each sample. Providers download this data at every visit and report it straight to DDS.
Some clients faced extra months on the device over a simple mistake. Even a brief power cut logs as a tampering event. For example, swapping the car battery without telling the provider counts as tampering. Following the provider's instructions carefully is essential to completing the interlock period on time.
Speak With a Georgia DUI Defense Attorney
An ignition interlock order affects your daily life, your budget, and your driving record. If you face a DUI charge in Georgia, a seasoned DUI defense attorney can make a real difference in your outcome.
At Kohn & Yager LLC, we guide clients through every stage of the DUI process. We challenge the initial traffic stop. We negotiate interlock terms. We guide clients through the DDS permit application. Based on the facts of your case, we may help you avoid the device altogether. Or we may negotiate a shorter time on it. We can challenge violations that could extend your time on the device. We can obtain an interlock-restricted permit so you can keep driving while your case is pending.
Time matters after a DUI arrest in Georgia. You have only 30 days to request an administrative hearing to protect your driving privileges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a breath lock device cost in Georgia?
Most drivers pay between $1,000 and $1,500 per year for an ignition interlock device. This includes installation ($75 – $150), monthly monitoring and calibration ($70 – $100 per month), and removal ($50 – $100). Georgia's Ignition Interlock Device Fund may help low-income drivers cover these costs.
How long do I have to keep an ignition interlock device in my car after a DUI in Georgia?
The minimum period is typically 12 months for a second DUI conviction. Third and subsequent offenses require longer periods. Violations such as failed tests or missed calibration appointments can extend the timeline. The device stays installed until DDS authorizes removal based on a clean compliance report.
Can I drive someone else's car if I have a breath lock device requirement?
Generally, no. Your restricted license lets you drive only a car fitted with an approved IID. Driving any car without the device while restricted breaks your permit terms. That can bring revocation and new criminal charges.
What happens if I fail a breath test on my ignition interlock device?
If you fail a pre-start test, the device locks the ignition and the car will not start. You must wait a few minutes before retesting. If you fail a rolling retest while driving, the device logs the event. It may trigger the horn and lights. The engine will not shut off. All failures are reported to DDS at your next calibration.
Can mouthwash or food trigger a false positive on a breath lock device?
Yes. Mouthwash containing alcohol, certain breath mints, hand sanitizer fumes, sourdough bread, and very ripe fruit can produce trace alcohol readings. Drivers should rinse their mouth with water and wait two to three minutes before providing a breath sample. This reduces the risk of a false positive.