FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
No. The devices currently available have anti-circumvention techniques, which cause the IID to abort phony breath samples.
Not legally. CVC 23247 makes it unlawful for another person to blow into an IID or to start a motor vehicle equipped with an IID to provide an operable motor vehicle to a person whose driving privilege is restricted. If the car was started illegally, the person who started it or another sober individual would have to ride in the vehicle because the device will randomly ask for a "running retest." If a test is not taken or if the test is failed, the device will log a violation. With some devices, the horn will honk until the vehicle is turned off. California law imposes fines and/or jail time for individuals assisting in the circumvention of the IID.
No. The device has a back-up lithium battery to protect the data log's memory.
Some devices can self-diagnose problems. The driver will be able to confirm the unit is having problems by the condition of the service light. The driver can also call an IID service provider to help determine if the device requires service.
No. The device randomly asks for breath tests while the vehicle is running and if a sample is not given when requested, the device logs a violation. With some devices, the horn also honks until the vehicle is shut off.
The device will prompt the driver. For example, a device may flash or a light may stay on and a tone will sound if it needs service. If the IID is not serviced, the IID will enter a lockout condition and the driver will not be able to operate the vehicle. The vehicle would have to be towed to the service center or the service center technician would have to perform a remote service.
Alcohol is alcohol. If the driver's blood alcohol concentration, as measured in the breath, is over the preset level, the driver will not be allowed to start the vehicle. During the training session, drivers are particularly cautioned about common substances that contain alcohol and the use of mouthwash
Again, alcohol is alcohol. If the driver does not allow sufficient time for the alcohol to dissipate from his/her mouth, a FAIL will be registered in the memory.
The IID will enter a short lockout period of a few minutes for the first failed breath alcohol test and a longer lockout for any subsequent failed breath alcohol test. This permits an opportunity for the alcohol to dissipate from the mouth and for the driver to consider the reason for the failed breath alcohol test.
Yes. However, any intended driver must take and pass a breath test in order to start the vehicle. All other possible drivers should be trained on the operation of the device. The person with the IID restriction is responsible for all readings recorded by the device.
The driver needs to contact the IID service provider before having repairs conducted on his/her vehicle in case the repair shop has questions about the IID. Documentation must be provided if the power to the vehicle is interrupted as the device will record the power disconnect and the reconnect.
No. The IID has no means of interrupting vehicle operation once started.
The IID permits the driver to restart the vehicle without having to conduct another breath sample, but a breath sample will be requested shortly after restarting.
Most states currently have IID programs with service centers to assist them. Drivers are instructed to contact the primary service center to be routed to the closest IID service center for assistance.
No. The IID is only connected to the wiring under the dash and under the hood. At the end of the program, this wiring is restored to pre-IID installation conditions.
No. When the IID signals for a retest, the driver has a few minutes to provide the sample or to pull over to the side of the road in a safe area to provide the breath sample. There are no buttons to push; the driver must only breathe into the device to complete a breath sample. This is much simpler than using a cellular telephone or tuning a state-of-the-art car stereo.
Typically, every 60 days.
No. Proprietary software and a special interface connection are needed to communicate with the device.
