Texas (TX) - State Requirements for Ignition Interlock Devices
The Texas Ignition Interlock Program
Texas refers to drunk driving or alcohol-based driving offenses as DWI, and penalties include fines, jail time, and license suspension. The legal limit for drivers is below .08% BAC, but those with lower BAC may still find themselves facing consequences depending on the circumstances of the incident. Some offenders are able to regain driving privileges by installing a Texas state-approved ignition interlock device from an approved ignition interlock provider. This guide will explain the interlock policy in Texas.
What Are the Penalties for DWI in Texas?
First DUI Offense
- Fines up to $2,000
- Potential 180-day jail sentence
- License suspended for up to one year
- Required to take a 12-hour DWI education course
- May be required to install an ignition interlock device that meets with state approval in order to regain driving privileges
Second DUI Offense
- Fines up to $4,000
- 1 to 12 months in jail
- Required to take a 32-hours DWI education course
- Driver’s license revoked or suspended for up to 2 years
- Required to install an ignition interlock device that meets with Texas state approval in order to regain driving privileges
Third DUI Offense
- Fines up to $10,000
- Jail sentence of 2 to 10 years
- Required to take a 32-hours DWI education course
- License suspended or revoked for up to 2 years
- Required to install an ignition interlock device that meets with Texas state approval in order to regain driving privileges
Offenders who commit DWI with a child passenger in the car risk an additional charge of child endangerment. This comes with penalties including a $10,000 fine, two to 10 years in prison, and a loss of driving privileges for up to two years.
What Are the Penalties for Failure to Complete or Refuse to Submit to an DWI Test in Texas?
Offenders who refuse to take a DWI test when stopped on suspicion of DWI will still face penalties. They include immediate license suspension
How Can I Get My Driving Privileges Back in Texas?
Some drivers are eligible to regain driving privileges if they meet a variety of criteria. These criteria include:
- Complete the required 12- or 32-hour DWI education course and provide documentation within 180 days of conviction
- Serve out the required suspension period (not more than 2 years) and pay a $100 reinstatement fee
- Show proof of proper insurance coverage with an SR-22 certificate of coverage
- Serve out required probation period
- Install an ignition interlock device from an approved provider like Intoxalock
- Apply for an Interlock Restricted driver’s license
- If a driver's license is suspended in addition with the IID requirement, the offender may be able to apply for an Occupational License. Check with the court or your attorney to determine if you are eligible for this
Intoxalock Texas Ignition Interlock Devices
Intoxalock is an approved ignition interlock device provider in Texas. This means that the state has reviewed and approved the device and determined it to be reliable and meet state criteria. Testing data is shared with the appropriate state monitoring authority.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device?
Ignition interlock devices are also known as car breathalyzers or IIDs. They are installed into a vehicle’s ignition system and require testing before a driver can start their car.
- Driver must pass a breath alcohol content (BrAC) test and pass or the vehicle will not start
- Multiple test failures in a row may result in a device lockout, which will require customer service assistance
- Failing the test multiple times in a row can result in a lockout
- All failures are reported to the state’s monitoring authority
- During most trips, the IID will request random retests to prevent tampering and make sure the driver stays sober