Vermont (VT) - State Requirements for Ignition Interlock Devices
The Vermont Ignition Interlock Program
Vermont aims to protect its citizens and roadways with strict laws around driving under the influence, or DUI. Drivers who are convicted of DUI in Vermont risk large financial penalties, license suspension, and possible jail time. Some offenders are able to regain driving privileges if they agree to install an ignition interlock device from an approved provider, like Intoxalock.
What Happens if I Get a DUI in Vermont?
Vermont penalizes DUI offenders with administrative, financial, and legal penalties. The penalties may increase depending on the circumstances of the offense.
First DUI Offense
- Jail term of maximum two years
- Fines up to $750
- May be required to attend mandatory alcohol education or treatment
- License suspended for 90 days, or up to one year if a fatality or injury occurred
- Offender may need to install an IID to regain driving privileges
Second DUI Offense
- Jail sentence of up to two years, 60 days minimum
- 200 hours of community service may be assigned in lieu of jail
- Fines up to $1,500
- License suspended for 18 months
- May be required to attend mandatory alcohol education or treatment
- Offender required to install an IID to regain driving privileges
Third DUI Offense
- Jail sentence of up to five years, 96 hours minimum
- Fines up to $2,500
- License suspended for life
- Required to complete alcohol and driving rehabilitation program, and shown “substantial progress” in alcohol therapy program.
- Offender may need to install an IID to regain driving privileges
What Happens if I Fail to Complete or Refuse to Submit to a DUI Test in Vermont?
Drivers who refuse a test may still face a variety of penalties. Notably, a test refusal for a first offender will result in a six-month license suspension immediately. This can increase if the offender is later found guilty of DUI in court.
How Do I Regain Driving Privileges in Vermont?
Vermont allows some drivers to regain driving privileges. Even drivers with a lifetime suspension may be eligible, depending on their previous driving record. To find out if they are able to get an Ignition Interlock Device Restricted Device in Vermont, drivers should:
- Contact Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles at 802-828-2061 to determine eligibility
- Must have held a valid driver’s license (not a permit or Junior Operator’s license)
- Cannot be under license suspension for any other reason
- Pay any fines related to the DUI incident
- Obtain proof of appropriate insurance coverage
- Install an ignition interlock device from an approved provider like Intoxalock
- Wait out the required suspension period