What Is An Interlock Restricted License

updated January 20, 2022

What are Administrative License Revocation Laws?

Administrative License Revocation (ALR), also known as Administrative License Suspension (ALS), is when your driver’s license is confiscated at the time of a DUI/DWI. The officer can take your license on the spot if you fail or refuse to submit to certain sobriety tests (including blood, breath, and/or urine testing).

Drivers are given a notice of suspension at that time, which in some states also serves as a temporary permit to drive. Depending on the state, this permit may be valid for 7 to 90 days, during which time the suspension may be challenged at a hearing. If there is no challenge or if the suspension is upheld, the license is suspended from 7 to 180 days, depending on state law. Longer suspensions are mandated for repeat offenders and drivers who decline testing.

ALR laws are civil administrative processes unrelated to criminal court proceedings and are generally handled through the State’s Department of Motor Vehicles.

They do not replace criminal prosecution, which is handled separately through the courts.  Depending on the jurisdiction, additional consequences, including an additional suspension period, can be imposed by the courts if a person is found guilty.

What Is a Restricted License?  

An ignition interlock restricted license identifies the holder as a driver who needs to use an ignition interlock device. Depending on your jurisdiction, the specific regulations, rules and terms of your interlock restricted license can vary.

Rather than completely giving up your ability to drive after a drunk driving offense, an ignition interlock restricted license lets you retain limited driving privileges. Unlike a suspended license, a restricted license allows you to keep operating your vehicle — as long as you take and pass the breath alcohol test. Learn more about what is an ignition interlock.

How Do I Get a Restricted License?

Ignition interlock devices can shorten the time of your administrative license suspension in many states and get you back to driving more quickly.  You can apply for a restricted license (also known as an interlock restricted license) that allows you to drive a vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock.

In some states, you can completely eliminate the DUI/DWI license suspension after completing your car breathalyzer program. Our state requirements pages include step-by-step information on how to obtain an interlock restricted license in each state, as well as helpful links to state DMV pages and necessary forms.  Following these instructions can get you behind the wheel safely and quickly.

How Long Do You Keep the Restricted License?  

State by state ignition interlock information is available to help you understand how long you’ll have to keep your ignition interlock restricted license. Your state can also determine details ranging from where you can drive to the time of day you’re allowed to drive while you have this license. 

Along with state requirements, several other factors can play a role in how long you’ll have to keep your restricted license. These aspects include:

How Do You Get Your Full License Back?  

In order to get your full license back, you’ll have to successfully complete your program. Throughout the program, drivers will need to follow all requirements including completing rolling retests and avoiding violations, like attempting to bypass how the ignition interlock device is meant to work. 

Drivers are responsible for paying for the ignition interlock device and any fees associated with getting it maintained or calibrated. 

How LifeSafer Can Help You Through This Process

Here at LifeSafer, we have a team of experts ready to guide you every step of the way. With our top-rated ignition interlock device, helpful resources and convenient service locations, we’ll help you regain your full license. 

Give us a call at 800-634-3077 today to request a quote or schedule an installation. 

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