State Interlock ProgramsACT Interlock Program
The ACT Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program is both a Mandatory and Voluntary Interlock Program – Mandatory for prescribed offenders after a court direction, and following 50% of your initial suspension period. Voluntary participation is available (immediately) to suspended drivers who wish to drive during your suspension period (these are people who don’t fall into the mandatory category). You will need to apply to the RTA for your I-condition licence, nominating a vehicle by completing an Application for a Probationary Licence with an Alcohol Ignition Interlock Condition form. All participants are required to have the interlock fitted for 6 months. Participants will need to have demonstrated safe driving behaviour and the ability to separate drinking from driving before being eligible to hold a licence without an interlock condition.
The ACT program is overviewed by Transport Regulation (RTA). For advice on licencing please contact RTA on 02 6207 7002.
Find an Authorised Service Centre in ACT
Interlock installation and servicing in ACT is subject to prior arrangement with your Service Centre. Please contact them to schedule an appointment.
FAQFrequently Asked Questions
How much will it cost?
Initially you need to pay for the installation and the first month’s lease fee for the interlock which is leased on a monthly basis. The overall cost of installation will be determined by the vehicle type (standard or non-standard installation), and length of program. Then lease fees are paid monthly. You also have a Loss Protection Plan option, which reduces your liability if the equipment is stolen. A Removal fee is charged at the end of the program. A list of our fees is available on this website.
Can I have it fitted to any sort of vehicle?
Yes – Depending on your vehicles make, model, and year, interlock device installation can vary. Motorbikes require a compatible ignition system and battery, kick start motorbikes will not be fitted.
Our service centre will inspect your vehicle and advise you of any additional costs.
What will I need to bring with me on the day?
When attending your appointment for an alcohol interlock installation, you will need to bring a few important items with you to ensure that the installation process goes smoothly. Firstly, you will need to bring your licence receipt, which proves that you have been granted an interlock licence. This receipt will be issued to you by the ACT Road Transport Authority (RTA) after you have successfully completed your interlock program application and paid any applicable fees.
In addition to your licence receipt, you will also need to bring a photo ID, such as a driver’s licence or passport, to confirm your identity. If you are eligible for a concession card, you will need to bring this with you as well, as conditions may apply.
It is important to note that you will also need to bring the motor vehicle in which the interlock device will be installed. Before your appointment, you will need to obtain the registered owner’s permission to install the device in their vehicle. To streamline this process, you can direct the owner to complete an authority form, which can be found on our website by clicking the link here.
Is there Concession / Discount rates?
Concessions are available. Refer to your State interlock program information page for eligibility details.
Participants authorise Guardian to confirm card validity, by a submitted e-Services Form. Click here to find an online form to complete and submit.
Concession is available for One (1) Install, Lease fees and One (1) Removal fee.
Concession found to be invalid will be reversed and payment will be required prior to your next service.
Is there a subsidy scheme?
No, unfortunately there is no subsidy scheme available to cover the costs incurred by an alcohol interlock program in the ACT. These programs form a part of a phased return to driving for those individuals convicted of drink driving offences, and as such, they are to be treated as a penalty. Therefore, financial assistance in the form of a subsidy scheme is not offered in these programs.
How long do I need to have it installed?
The Interlock Program in the ACT is for a period of 6 months.
Do I need to attend in person?
You must attend your installation appointment to complete training. Once installed someone else may present your vehicle for service.
How often do I have to be serviced?
Your alcohol interlock devices will need to undergo a monthly service in the ACT, or every 30 days, in order to the regulations laid out by the ACT Interlock Program. You will need to report to your registered interlock provider for this service each and every month to comply with the conditions of the program. This service will see the provider assess the data collected in the previous month, centring around the status of the tests and rolling retests, noting specifically any “fail” readings.
How do I complete the program?
Participants have to demonstrate that they can separate drinking and before they will be eligible to hold a licence without an interlock condition.
For further information visit the RTA website.
Are there any other exemptions?
There are limited exemptions available. You should contact the RTA to see if you qualify.
Can anyone drive the vehicle after an interlock device has been fitted?
Yes, anyone can drive the vehicle but you are responsible for what is recorded on your log.
I’m selling my car, what should I do?
Make an appointment with your service centre to transfer the equipment from one vehicle to another. If you do not have your new vehicle yet you may have the interlock removed voluntarily.
Voluntary removal will incur an additional Early Termination Fee. This fee will be refunded provided you have your interlock reinstalled with Guardian within 6 months. The period where the interlock is not installed does not count towards your program.
I Can’t Afford My Interlock Anymore, What Can I Do?
The best plan is to have the interlock removed until you are able to afford it. Removal and reinstall charges will apply but the lease costs continue and can end up costing you more than the removal/install. In most states an early termination fee also applies but is refunded if you return within 6 months.
It is a good idea to contact Guardian for advice if you are having difficulties to avoid unwanted additional fees and your account being escalated. We will do our best to work with you to assist in difficult situations.
I’ve lost my User Manual, what should I do?
Download a copy of the User Guide here.
Further Resources
Reach Out to Our Team
For queries about the ACT Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program, please contact us at Guardian, and we will be happy to help.