Thomas C. Grajek | March 13, 2026 | DUI
Getting hit with an ignition interlock device (IID) requirement can change your daily routine in ways most people don’t expect. Florida law mandates these devices under certain DUI circumstances, and learning about when they apply is critical if you want to protect your ability to drive.
Essentially, an IID is a small breathalyzer installed in your vehicle. Before the engine starts, you blow into the device. If your breath alcohol level registers above the preset limit, the car won’t start. The device also requires periodic retests while driving to make sure you stay sober behind the wheel.
When Is an IID Required in Florida?
Florida Statutes §322.2715 outlines the situations where a court may order or must order an ignition interlock device.
The requirements depend on the nature of your DUI offense:
- First DUI conviction with a BAC of 0.15 or higher: Mandatory IID installation for at least 6 months
- First DUI conviction with a minor in the vehicle: Mandatory IID installation for at least 6 months
- Second DUI conviction: Mandatory IID installation for at least 1 year
- Third DUI conviction: Mandatory IID installation for at least 2 years
- Fourth or subsequent DUI conviction: Mandatory IID installation for at least 5 years
For a standard first offense where the BAC falls below 0.15, a judge has discretion over whether or not to order the device.
Who Pays for the Ignition Interlock Device?
The financial burden falls on the person convicted. You are responsible for all costs tied to the IID, and those expenses add up quickly. Installation typically runs between $70 and $150. Monthly monitoring and calibration fees range from $60 to $100. There may also be removal fees once your interlock period ends.
On top of these costs, you still face the fines, court fees, and insurance premium increases that come along with a DUI conviction. This makes the total financial impact of a DUI far greater than many people realize at the outset.
What Happens if I Violate My IID Requirements?
Violating IID requirements, such as tampering with the device or driving a vehicle you are not allowed to operate without an IID, can lead to serious consequences. Florida law treats tampering, circumvention, and certain other IID-related violations as unlawful and may result in license revocation and other penalties
Possible consequences include:
- Extension of the interlock requirement period
- Additional criminal charges, potentially classified as a misdemeanor
- Revocation of your driving privilege altogether
- Probation violations that could lead to jail time
Having someone else blow into the device for you can also result in criminal charges for both parties involved.
Can You Get a Hardship License With an IID?
In many cases, yes. Florida allows individuals convicted of DUI to apply for a hardship license that permits driving for specific activities, like work. However, if your conviction triggers a mandatory IID requirement, the interlock device must be installed on any vehicle you operate under that hardship license.
Driving any vehicle without the device while your requirement is active puts you at risk for further penalties.
Contact the Experienced Lakeland DUI Lawyer at Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys for Help Today
IID requirements carry real consequences that can affect your life in a number of important ways all at once. If you’re facing DUI charges or have questions about ignition interlock requirements in Florida, setting up a consultation with a criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your options and take the right steps forward.
At Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys, our Lakeland DUI lawyers help clients understand the full consequences of DUI charges, including ignition interlock requirements and license restrictions. If you are facing DUI allegations or have questions about IID laws in Florida, contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.
For more information, contact the Lakeland [PRACTICE AREA] attorneys at Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys for a free consultation. We serve all areas in Lakeland, Polk County, and throughout Florida.
Visit our convenient location:
Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys
112 E Poinsettia St, Lakeland, FL 33803
(863) 688-4606