Maine (ME) - State Requirements for Ignition Interlock Devices
The Maine Ignition Interlock Program
The legal BAC limit in Maine is .08 percent, as it is in most states. Anyone caught driving with a BAC at or greater than .08 percent risks a variety of penalties. The penalties include immediate license suspension. Some offenders can regain their driving privileges sooner if they install an ignition interlock device from an approved provider.
In Maine, offenders found to have a BAC at or above .08 percent will have their license suspended immediately. This means they won’t be able to drive until after their court date, and that is not even a certainty. Some offenders may be able to get their driving privileges back sooner if they install an ignition interlock device from an approved provider.
What Happens if I Get an OUI in Maine?
Maine has a variety of penalties for OUI and they increase if there are prior offenses on record or aggravating circumstances. The court may order additional treatment or community services depending on the circumstances of the offense.
First OUI Offense (With No Aggravating Factors)
- Zero days in jail
- License suspension of 150 days
- $500 in fines
- Required to install IID to regain driving privileges
Second OUI Offense (With No Aggravating Factors)
- Jail term of seven days
- Fine of $700
- License suspension of three years
- Required to install IID to regain driving privileges
Third OUI Offense (With No Aggravating Factors)
- Jail term of 40 days
- $1,100 in fines
- Three years license suspension
- Required to install IID to regain driving privileges
What Happens if I Fail to Complete or Refuse to Submit to an OUI Test in Maine?
Declining to take a blood alcohol content (BAC) test is not a means to avoid a penalty for a drunk driving test. There are penalties for refusing to take the test.
First Offense, Refusal to Take Test
- License suspended for 275 days
- Jail time of 96 hours
- $500 in fines
Second Offense, Refusal to Take Test
- License suspended for three years
- Jail time for 12 days
- $900 in fines
Third Offense, Refusal to Take Test
- License suspended for six years
- Jail time of 40 days
- $1,400 in fines
How Do I Regain Driving Privileges in Maine?
Qualified offenders in Maine can get back on the road if they install an ignition interlock device from an approved provider. Before they can get a restricted license, the offenders must also serve a portion of their suspension. The restricted license will be conditional for at least one year after the suspension period has ended.
Here is a checklist for Maine residents who wish to get a restricted license:
- They must wait out the necessary portion of the mandatory suspension period
- Fill out the Ignition Interlock Petition Form to file a petition with the Secretary of State
- Pay any fees, including the application fee of $50
- Finish penalty requirements, including payment of fines
- Enroll in and complete an alcohol or substance abuse program