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Iowa (IA) - State Requirements for Ignition Interlock Devices

The Iowa Ignition Interlock Program

In Iowa, operating a vehicle while intoxicated is known as OWI, and applies to anyone who is driving with a breathe alcohol concentration (BrAC) of .08 percent or higher, or who has any amount of a controlled substance in their blood.

Drivers who are charged with OWI in Iowa will have their license revoked, including first-time offenders. The period of revocation is determined by the court, but all offenders will have their license revoked if convicted. Iowa allows convicted drivers to apply for a temporary restricted license if being unable to drive is a hardship, but drivers must install a certified ignition interlock device on all vehicles they operate to qualify.

What Happens if I Get an OWI in Iowa?

If you refuse or fail to complete a breath test, you will likely receive a license revocation of one year for test refusals or 180 days for test failures (first offenses). If you fail the breath test you risk the following:

First OWI Offense

  • 48 hours to one year in jail
  • $625 to $1,250 fine
  • License revoked for 180 days, depending on compliance with chemical testing
  • Must install an ignition interlock device on all vehicles operated during revocation

Second OWI Offense 

  • Seven days to two years in jail
  • $1,875 to $6,250 in fines
  • License revoked for one year
  • IID required for one year after reinstatement and for all vehicles operated

Third OWI Offense 

  • 30 days to five years in jail
  • $3,125 to $9,375 in fines
  • License revoked for six years
  • IID required for all vehicles operated for temporary restricted license eligibility

Compliance-Based Removal Program

Under the Compliance-Based Removal (CBR) program, non-compliance with IID requirements can extend the IID requirement period by 60 days per violation. Violations include:

  • 10 or more failed BrAC tests (≥ 0.04%) within 30 days
  • 5 or more failed BrAC tests (≥ 0.04%) within 24 hours
  • Tampering with or attempting to circumvent the IID
  • Removing the IID without authorization

How Can I Get a Temporary Restricted License in Iowa?

For some people, going without a driver’s license is a hardship. They may have no other way to get to work or school. In those cases, they may be eligible for a restricted license that would allow them to drive to approved locations like work, school, home, treatment, and medical appointments. You may be eligible for a temporary restricted license if you meet the following criteria:

Medical Waivers

Drivers who have a verifiable medical condition preventing the proper use of an IID can apply for a medical waiver. If granted:

  • IID installation is not required to receive a TRL
  • The TRL will limit driving to specific locations, such as work, school, or medical appointments.