Louisiana (LA) - State Requirements for Ignition Interlock Devices
The Louisiana Ignition Interlock Program
Louisiana suspends driver’s licenses after all DWI offenses, but some offenders can get back on the road during their suspension period. To do so, they’re required to install an ignition interlock device and meet a variety of other criteria.
There are financial and administrative penalties. Some offenders may be eligible to regain their driving privileges if they install an ignition interlock device approved by the state.
What Happens if I Get a DWI in Louisiana?
DWI offenses are treated very seriously in Louisiana. These laws are in place to hopefully deter people from drinking and driving.
A second-time DWI offender may have their license suspended for one years, and four years if their BAC is over .15 percent. In addition, there are financial penalties and other requirements like treatment programs and potential community service. To regain driving privileges, drivers are required to install an IID from an approved provider like Intoxalock. They must present proof of installation before acquiring a restricted license.
Recently, Louisiana updated their interlock program to decrease recidivism. Now, their interlock program is compliance-based, which means time can be added to an offender’s interlock term for certain violations. Offenders will also have to have their device calibrated every 30 days. The violations include: tampering, circumventing the device once during installation, failure to have proper service every 30 days more than twice during the period of installation, 3 or more initial or retest breath test failures or failures to retest during a 30-day period, or any unauthorized removal of the device. Any of these violations can result in a 30-day extension for first-time DUI offenders, and a 6-month extension for repeat DUI offenders.
The recent updates also eliminate the waiting period for hardship licenses for offenders with a BAC at or above .15 percent.
First DWI Offense
- 365-day license suspension
- May be required to complete a classroom course
- Fine up to $1,000
- 10 days six months in jail
- Ignition interlock may be required to regain license
- Community service or house arrest may be mandated instead of jail time
- Offenders with a BAC of .15 or greater will have their license suspended for 2 years
Second DWI Offense
- 30 days minimum up to six months in jail
- Driver improvement or substance abuse treatment may be required
- Must pay between $750-$1,000 in fines
- Suspension of driver’s license for two years
- Interlock required for six months and potentially longer
- Community service or house arrest may be mandated instead of jail time
- Offenders with a BAC of .15 or greater will have their license suspended for 4 years
Third DWI Offense
- License suspended for at least three years (more if their BAC is more than .20)
- Driver improvement or substance abuse treatment may be required
- One to five years of jail time
- Up to $2,000 in fines
- Interlock required during suspension and treatment (and possibly longer)
- Community service or house arrest may be mandated instead of jail time
What Happens if I Fail to Complete or Refuse to Submit to a DWI Test in Louisiana?
Louisiana still has consequences for offenders who refuse to submit to a breath, urine, or blood test when stopped for suspected DWI. If a driver refuses the test, they can be penalized with a one-year license suspension, and their license will be immediately seized. If the driver has a past refusal within 10 years, their license will be suspended for two years and they will be required to have an IID for six months. Offenders are eligible to get a hardship license if they install an ignition interlock device.
How Do I Regain Driving Privileges in Louisiana?
Some offenders may be eligible to regain their driving privileges if they agree to install an ignition interlock device. They must comply with the state’s interlock requirements or risk their interlock term being extended. They may also be required to meet other criteria, including:
- Install an IID at an approved provider and provide proof to the court or office of motor vehicles
- Pay any applicable fines
- Provide proof of SR-22 insurance
- Complete any mandated treatment programs or community service