What is an ignition interlock system?
It is an electronic breath alcohol analyser with micro-computer logic and internal memory, which interconnects with the ignition and other control systems of a motor vehicle. Its purpose is to measure the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of the intended driver and to prevent the vehicle from being started or operated if the BAC exceeds a preset limit.

What is an ignition interlock program?
An interlock program is a structured means of controlling the driving behaviour of impaired driving offenders through a restricted driving privilege following a minimum period of license suspension or revocation. Program participants must meet eligibility criteria and agree to comply with enforceable program guidelines.

Why an interlock program?
The persistent or "hard core" drinking driver is not being reached by current methods of sanction and rehabilitation. Recidivism rates for this group remain unacceptably high. The interlock program is an immediate and effective deterrent against drinking and driving for those who participate in the program.

How effective is it? Independent studies involving comparisons of high risk drinking driving offenders who participated in an interlock program with others who received more traditional sanctions (e.g. license suspension) have reported reductions in re-arrest rates among interlock users of 65% and more.

How is the program enforceable?
Once an individual is accepted for participation in an interlock program, an approved ignition interlock system is installed in the vehicle by an authorised interlock service provider. Typically, proof of the installation is required before the restricted driving permit is issued. The interlock service provider will carry out regular periodic monitoring checks (every 30-60 days) to verify calibration accuracy and proper functioning of the interlock system. During monitoring, the internal memory of the interlock is downloaded and a compliance report generated for administering authorities. Compliance reports detail all driving events, the results of every BAC test, and any attempt to circumvent the system. Such reports, together with any other information that may be available, may be used as the basis for sanctions imposed on the participant (including removal from the program or extension of the term of interlock use) in the event of non-compliance with program conditions.

What are the options?
While traditional measures have proven effective at deterring further drinking/driving offences for most impaired driving offenders, there is strong evidence that they have little or no effect on a sizeable minority. In the absence of measures involving close control and supervision, those in the latter group are likely to drive without a license, and frequently after drinking.

How does the interlock program resolve this dilemma?

1. The interlock program is available only to those who meet eligibility criteria and who have completed a mandatory period of driving prohibition, thus preserving the deterrent nature of current sanctions while selecting those who may best be served by this program.

2. The individual who participates in an interlock program must accept certain conditions and restrictions, including not drinking prior to driving.

3. There are regular monitoring checks (30-60 days) to ensure compliance with the program and the integrity of the interlock system.

4. The interlock program provides an opportunity to be in regular contact with the problem drinker which could be integrated with and used to reinforce counselling or other rehabilitative efforts.

5. The participant is encouraged to legally re-enter the driving population with enforceable restrictions, thus eliminating the motivation to drive while suspended.

6. The participant is able to remain gainfully employed where driving to work or as a condition of employment is necessitated.

7. The interlock system helps problem drinkers separate driving from drinking, and develop more responsible patterns of behaviour. Who pays for the interlock program? The cost of the interlock program, including installation of the interlock system, monitoring, routine service, and reporting to administering authorities, is paid entirely by the program participant. It costs less than a drink a day.