Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Requirements in Wisconsin
Ordered to install an IID? We can help you stay legal and avoid violations. Give us a call or schedule your free consolation today.
What is an IID?
An ignition interlock device (IID)—sometimes called a BAIID or “breathalyzer”—measures breath-alcohol concentration (BAC) and prevents the vehicle from starting if the sample is above 0.02 g/210L.
Modern Wisconsin-approved units include:
- Handset + mouthpiece to submit samples
- Mounted camera to verify the driver
- Cellular modem to transmit data in near real time
- Control unit installed under the dash
IIDs are leased from approved providers and installed/serviced for the full order period, typically a minimum of 12 months as set by the court.
When is an IID Required?
Judges must order an IID for (Wis. Stat. § 343.301 / Act 100):
- All repeat OWI offenders
- All first-offense OWI with BAC ≥ 0.15
- All implied-consent refusals (refused breath/blood/urine test)
Key rules
- You may only operate IID-equipped vehicles during the order.
- IID must be installed on every vehicle owned by or registered to you (car, truck, motorhome, etc.).
- No IID on motorcycles, mopeds, or autocycles.
- If you no longer own or operate a titled/registered vehicle, you must get a court exemption (the court submits it electronically to DMV).
0.02 BAC rule: While under an IID order, you may not operate any motor vehicle with a BAC above 0.02—even if the vehicle does not require an IID for other drivers.
When Does the Clock Start?
- The IID time requirement starts only when DMV issues you a Wisconsin driver license or occupational license on or after the conviction date.
- You can’t “wait out” the order by not driving.
- Courts can order installation immediately or for Huber/work-release, but the clock begins when DMV issues any license.
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How the Device Works (2024 Updates)
- Start tests: You must provide a breath sample ≤ 0.020 g/210L to start.
- Rolling retests: You’ll be prompted for additional samples at random intervals while driving.
- Result types: PASS (≤0.020), FAIL (>0.020), ABORT (invalid sample), REFUSAL (no attempt). Actual numeric BAC isn’t displayed.
- Alert mode: Violations (e.g., failed retest, tamper) trigger horn and lights; you must supply a PASS to end the alert. If you shut the engine off in alert, a PASS is required to restart.
- Confirmation retest: After any non-pass retest, there’s a 2-minute wait before the confirmation prompt. Another non-pass records a violation and activates alert mode.
- Violation reset: Occurs after one circumvent/tamper or any 3 (ABORT/FAIL/REFUSAL) confirmation retest violations (policy changed from older “3 fails/refusals in a window”).
- Cold-weather start: Handset may be removed when the vehicle is off (camera units only) to speed winter starts.
- Data access: Authorized agencies (probation, treatment court, law enforcement, courts, treatment providers, WisDOT) can access compliance data.
Installation, Service & Costs
- Choose an approved vendor (e.g., Intoxalock, LifeSafer, Smart Start, RoadGuard, Low Cost). Wisconsin does not endorse any brand; approval = meets state/federal standards.
- Expect installation, monthly lease/service, and removal fees.
- If your income is <150% FPL, you may request reduced pricing—work with the convicting court to determine eligibility.
- Service centers must train multiple family members on device use if they’ll drive the IID vehicle.
Health-Related Issues
There are no medical exemptions from a mandatory IID order. If you can’t provide acceptable samples:
- Work with your installer to switch to a different approved device/model.
- You may be required to complete medical evaluation under ch. Trans 112 (at your expense), which can include a behind-the-wheel assessment.
Compliance, Tampering & Consequences
- Failure to install, early removal, tampering, bypass, or driving a non-IID vehicle during the restriction can lead to:
- Cancellation of your driving privilege
- Additional criminal charges or extensions
- Court sanctions or probation violations, where applicable
Pro tip: Keep your service appointments on schedule; missed calibrations can trigger lockouts. A one-time lockout code may be available for a permanent lockout—ask your vendor.
How Chirafisi Anderson, S.C. Can Help
At Chirafisi Anderson, S.C., we make IID compliance manageable:
- Ensure your order and vehicle list are correct; seek exemptions for vehicles you no longer own/operate
- Coordinate occupational license timing so your IID clock starts ASAP
- Review alleged violations and challenge false positives (e.g., mouth alcohol, medical conditions)
- Advise on vendor selection, service logistics, and county expectations in Dane, Rock, Jefferson, Columbia, Sauk, Iowa, and Green Counties
IID Vendors
Take Action Now
A misstep with IID rules can cancel your license and snowball penalties. We’ll help you install correctly, stay compliant, and avoid violations. Serving clients across Southern and Central Wisconsin including Dane, Rock, Jefferson, Dodge, Columbia, Sauk, Iowa, and Green Counties.
Call Chirafisi Anderson, S.C. today for a free consultation with an experienced OWI defense lawyer.