If your license has been suspended in Kentucky due to a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) conviction, you may be eligible to obtain an ignition interlock driver’s license (IIDL) to regain your driving privileges. This device, which requires you to pass a breathalyzer test before starting your car and will require you to submit random samples while you are driving, allows you to continue driving while ensuring public safety. Criminal defense attorney Eric Ray of Lexington, Kentucky, has extensive experience with DUI cases and can help you navigate the process of obtaining an ignition interlock license.
Here’s what you need to know about the steps involved in getting an IIDL and whether it can reduce your license suspension period.
Eligibility for an Ignition Interlock License in Kentucky
In Kentucky, after being convicted of a DUI, your driving privileges will be suspended. The period of suspension changes depending on how many prior DUI offenses you have had in the previous 10 years. However, the state offers an ignition interlock program that allows you to drive legally during your suspension, under certain conditions. As long as you have no other issues preventing you from obtaining a license, you should be eligible to obtain an ignition interlock license when:
– Your license has been suspended for pleading guilty to a dui offense.
– Your license was suspended pretrial for being charged with a 2nd, 3rd, or 4th offense dui.
– Your license was suspended pretrial for refusal to submit to a breath, blood, or urine test.
Your eligibility begins immediately after your DUI conviction or when the Court enters a pretrial suspension order. Which means you can apply for an ignition interlock license without waiting for a portion of the suspension period to expire.
Steps to Get an Ignition Interlock License
After your license has been suspended by the Court, obtaining an ignition interlock license in Kentucky involves several steps. The steps listed below can also be found on the Department of Transportation’s website Kentucky Ignition Interlock Program (KIIP) – DRIVE:
- You send in an application to the department of transportation.
Either E-mail KIIP@ky.gov or Fax (844-535-7209) the following information:
- Ignition Interlock Application (TC94-175)
- Proof of a valid Kentucky vehicle registration (out of state drivers will need to provide valid registration from their state)
- Note; If registration is NOT in the driver’s name, a notarized letter is required from the owner giving permission to install the device in their vehicle. This statement must include the description of the vehicle as well as the VIN#.
- Proof of Kentucky insurance (out of state drivers will need to provide proof of insurance from their state)
- Any other documentation required for the forms to be submitted
OR Go to a Driver Licensing Regional Office to submit your application with the above forms.
A $40.00 Reinstatement fee is required and can be paid at a Driver Licensing Regional Office.
You will be provided a Letter of Approval by either mail or E-mail.
- You take your approval letter to an approved installer:
- Take your Letter of Approval to a Vendor/Ignition Interlock Provider to set up an appointment for installation.
- Device must be installed in Kentucky unless preauthorized by KYTC.
- The Service Center will provide a Certificate of Installation once the device has been successfully installed.
You are responsible for the costs associated with installing and maintaining the ignition interlock device. This typically includes installation fees, monthly maintenance, and calibration costs.
- You take your certificate of installation to a Kentucky licensing office:
- Take your Certificate of Installation to a license issuing location to have a Restricted License issued. **Credit for participation in KIIP will only begin at the time of issuance.**
Does an Ignition Interlock License Reduce Your Suspension Period?
Obtaining an ignition interlock license allows you to drive legally during your suspension period and it can also reduce the overall suspension period. The length of your license suspension will begin as the maximum suspension allowed. Below are the maximums:
- For a first DUI offense, the maximum suspension period is 6 months.
- For a second DUI offense, the maximum suspension period is 18 months.
- For third DUI offense, the maximum suspension period is 36 months.
- For fourth DUI offense, the maximum suspension period is 60 months.
If you have no violations of the IIDL terms (such as failing a breath test or tampering with the device), the suspension period is reduced to:
- For a first DUI offense, the reduced suspension period is 4 months.
- For a second DUI offense, the reduced suspension period is 12 months.
- For third DUI offense, the reduced suspension period is 18 months.
- For fourth DUI offense, the reduced suspension period is 30 months.
Conclusion
If your license has been suspended due to a DUI, an ignition interlock license can provide you with the ability to drive legally while ensuring that you remain sober behind the wheel.
Attorney Eric Ray of Lexington, Kentucky, can help you through the legal process to apply for an IIDL, ensuring you meet all requirements and get back on the road as soon as possible. For guidance on DUI-related matters and the ignition interlock program, contact Eric Ray’s office at 859-242-3487 today.
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