Washington State DUI laws outline three different points where folks are at risk of having the ignition interlock device (IID). Two are court related and one comes directly from the Department of Licensing (DOL). Most of the time, having the IID is linked to a suspended license. When Washington licensed drivers are suspended for a DUI, they are eligible for a restricted license called the Ignition Interlock License (IIL).
In some DUI cases judges are required to order installation of the IID within five days of the first court hearing. This happens when the current DUI allegation is alcohol related and person has a “prior offense” as defined by RCW 46.61.5055. Usually, a prior offense is an old DUI that resolved as a conviction for DUI or was reduced to Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangerment or Negligent Driving First Degree. There is no limit on how far back the court can look for these prior offenses and this IID requirement will remain in effect at least until the court case resolves.
The next point where someone might need the IID is when DOL suspends a driver’s license administratively after a DUI arrest. These suspensions are independent of the court case and last for 90 days, one year or two years. During these periods Washington State licensed drivers are eligible for the IIL, which does require the IID.
The final point of a DUI case when someone might need the IID is at the end of the court case. A DUI conviction or entry of a Deferred Prosecution will lead to a minimum one year IID requirement. Separately, someone who was initially charged with a DUI that was later reduced to Reckless Driving or Negligent Driving First Degree and who had a prior offense within the last seven years will need the IID for at least six months.
DUI related driving laws can be confusing. Let the experienced attorneys at Cooney Law Offices explain your options and guide you through this process. Cooney Law Offices. We can help!