Utah (UT) - State Requirements for Ignition Interlock Devices
The Utah Ignition Interlock Program
Utah drivers do risk a driver’s license suspension for drunk driving offenses, but some drivers may be able to avoid a suspension by enrolling in the Utah ignition interlock program.
To qualify, offenders may need to meet other criteria including:
- No other suspensions that prevent reinstatement on record
- Complete an Impaired Driving Assessment (IDA) after their arrest date
- IDA results should show that the person is a low-risk offender
- Must install a Utah state-approved ignition interlock device from providers, like Intoxalock, and pay reinstatement fees
There is an allowance for those who are physically unable to provide a deep lung breath sample to use an ignition interlock device for medical reasons. Offenders can apply for a medical exemption, and their doctor can supply documentation showing their inability to properly provide a deep lung breath sample an IID.
What Happens if I Get a DUI in Utah?
Utah hands down serious penalties for drunk driving, in addition to having the lowest legal BAC limit of any state. There are administrative, financial, and legal penalties for offenders and they increase if the driver has a previous offense on record. Penalties may increase depending on the BAC level of the driver or if injuries, property damage, or death occurred. The judge also has discretion to lengthen an interlock term or mandate an interlock if they choose.
First DUI Offense
- Two days to 180 days in jail
- Fines of up to $1,310
- Offenders may be able to avoid license suspension by enrolling in Utah’s interlock program
- May be required to undergo screening, assessment, educational programs, or treatment
- 24/7 sobriety program or treatment may be ordered, or supervised probation
- Mandatory interlock device for offenders with a BAC > .16 percent
- Judge can assign interlock requirement at their discretion for offenders with a BAC < .16 percent
Second DUI Offense
- 10 days mandatory jail time, up to 180 days in jail
- Jail time may be converted to five days in jail plus 30 days of electronic monitoring
- Fines of $1,560 (and possibly more)
- May be required to undergo screening, assessment, educational programs, or treatment
- 24/7 sobriety program or treatment may be ordered, or supervised probation
- Offenders can petition the Driver License Division to become an Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver if their 2nd or subsequent offense occurs within 10 years of the first offense. The offender shall maintain the IID restriction for at least two years
Third DUI Offense
- 62 days in jail, with five years in prison maximum
- Fines of $2,850 and possibly more
- License revoked for two years
- May be required to undergo screening, assessment, educational programs, or treatment
- 24/7 sobriety program or treatment may be ordered, or supervised probation
- Offenders can petition the Driver License Division to become an Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver if their 2nd or subsequent offense occurs within 10 years of the first offense. The offender shall maintain the IID restriction for at least two years
What Happens if I Fail to Complete or Refuse to Submit to a DUI Test in Utah?
Refusing to take a BAC test in Utah will not get you out of the consequences for your actions. If an offender refuses to take a test, they can have their license suspended for up to 18 months on a first offense. Repeat offenders may have their license suspended for three years, and those under 21 risk a suspension of 18 months or until they turn 21.
Offenders may be able to reduce license suspension or revocation by enrolling in Utah’s interlock program.
How Do I Regain Driving Privileges in Utah?
Utah allows eligible offenders to get an alcohol or drug-related limited license if they meet certain criteria. This license allows them to drive during the suspension period, if they fulfill requirements. The criteria include:
- Must be violation free for a year
- Pay all required fees
- Complete any required testing (some may need to take the written driving test, for example)
- Install an interlock device from a state-approved ignition interlock provider, like Intoxalock
- Some offenders may need to supply proof of employment and schedule from their employer, if the license will be used to drive to work. Students may need to provide a class schedule and proof of enrollment.
- Provide proof of SR-22 insurance