Driver’s license suspended due to a DUI? There is relief…an Ignition Interlock License.

Posted Thursday, June 29, 2017 by Andrew Charles Huff

An Ignition Interlock License (IIL) allows a person to drive a vehicle while their license is suspended or revoked for a drug or alcohol-related offense. To be eligible, you must have an unexpired WA driver license and your suspension must be based on a DUI or Reckless Driving. You are not eligible if your suspension includes Minor in Possession or you are a Habitual Traffic Offender.

You may apply for an IIL at any time, including once you are arrested or after your revocation hearing. When you are issued an IIL you must maintain an interlock device in the vehicles you drive for the rest of your suspension.

Applying for this license is pretty easy. You need to first install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. Next, get proof of financial responsibility, such as a Certificate of Insurance (SR-22). A car insurance agent can help you with this. Finally, complete the Restricted Driver License Application and submit it to DOL with along with the fee.

But what if you drive a work vehicle for your job? The ignition interlock requirement may be waived for most work vehicles if your employer signs an Employer Declaration. But remember that this requirement cannot be waived if the work vehicle is assigned exclusively to you, and is used only for commuting to and from work. You can’t drive it to and from your home.

Another restriction is you can’t drive a commercial motor vehicle while you have an IIL.

Own more than one vehicle? You must install an interlock device in all the cars you drive — not necessarily all the cars you own. If you prefer, you may install an interlock device in one vehicle that you’ll drive while your license is suspended.