Ignition Interlock Devices

Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a unique charge because it incorporates a lot of sentencing conditions. One of these is the possibility that you may be required to install ignition interlock device (IID). If you are a repeat DWI offender, then it’s likely the judge will order you to install an IID.

An ignition interlock device is similar to a breathalyzer, but it’s linked to your car engine. The device requires you to submit a breath sample before starting the car. The purpose of an IID is to deter DWI offenders from driving drunk again. If the device calibrates a BAC of .08, then the car engine will be locked.

Ignition interlock devices are a hassle and can be expensive. You’ll also be required to pay the installation and monthly costs of your IID. Because of this, it’s important you visit this article, so you’re prepared for what’s next.

DWI Attorney for IIDs in Houston, Texas

An ignition interlock device can limit you incredibly. The instrument itself isn’t always accurate and can give false readings. This means your car could be unusable at any time if the device malfunctions. In addition, the costs of an IID can really hurt your wallet.

Avoid this entirely with a strong defense with Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc.. Our attorneys at Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc. have a primary focus in DWI law. We can utilize our skills to create a strong defense for you, so you can avoid an IID installation. Call us now at (713) 224-5529 to schedule a free consultation today.

Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc. accepts clients throughout the Harris County area including Houston, Pasadena, Tomball, Bellaire and West University Place.

Overview of Ignition Interlock Devices in Texas


Texas DWI Laws Concerning IIDs

Texas has established DWI laws regarding ignition interlock devices under the Transportation Code and Penal Code. The majority of first-time DWI offenders will not require an IID. The courts typically take first-time DWI charges as an uncharacteristic lapse of judgement from the defendant. If you’re a repeat DWI offender, then it’s a different story.

Texas Penal Code § 49.04(h) states you’re required to install an ignition interlock device if you have a second or subsequent DWI within five years of your first offense. The device will be installed on every operable motor vehicle you own, and you must pay for the entire cost yourself. You’ll be prohibited from driving any vehicle without an IID attached.

Previous DWI offenses cannot be used as a prior conviction if:

  • The prior conviction was committed more than 10 years before; and
  • You haven’t been charged with DWI within 10 years of your first conviction and the date of your current DWI charges

The court requires you to install an IID before the first anniversary of your license suspension. The Texas Department of Public Transportation (DPS) will bar you from obtaining a license until you’ve installed your IID. You are, however, entitled to an occupational license without finding an essential need if you installed your IID in a timely manner.

You might be able to drive a motor vehicle without an IID if:

  • The vehicle you use is for your job;
  • Your employer owns the vehicle;
  • You don’t control or have authority over your employer in any way;
  • Your employer was notified of your driving restrictions; and
  • There is proof of that notification in the vehicle

Aggravated DWI cases may also require an IID installation. Circumstances such as having a child passenger or a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of .15 will turn your DWI into an aggravated DWI. If you’re charged with an aggravated DWI, it’s likely the judge will impose an ignition interlock requirement on your sentencing.


Back to top

What is an Ignition Interlock Device?

An ignition interlock device is basically a breathalyzer installed in your car. The instrument is also attached to your engine. Once installed, you’ll be required to submit a breath sample if you want to start the car. If you have a BAC of .08 or higher, then the engine will lock from use.

Texas adopted IID laws in attempt to deter multiple DWI offenders. The car will be basically unusable until the IID measures a BAC under the legal limit. If you blow at or over .08, then the device will log the event internally. Multiple failed breath tests could result in the device notifying your local authorities.

There’s no way to “cheat” an IID either. The device requires rolling-retests, which are random breath tests while you’re driving. This is to stop others from blowing for you. If your IID detects a high BAC during a rolling re-test, it’ll not turn off the engine. Instead it will flash the lights and honk the horn excessively until you’ve turned off the vehicle.


Back to top

How Much Does an Interlock Device Cost in Texas?

Ignition interlock devices aren’t just a hassle, they’re expensive. The court requires you to pay the full installation and monthly cost of an IID. It can be incredibly costly because it requires a deposit, monthly calibration costs, and the initial installation. In some cases, the court will create a reasonable pay schedule to assist with the expenses.

Ignition interlock devices are installed by third-party companies. This means you do have some choice in where your IID comes from. However, you cannot simply find a “cheap” IID company. The IID must meet the requirements listed out in Texas Transportation Code § 521.2476.  Because of this, the majority of companies have similar pricing.

IID installation companies usually require information on your case to give you a quote on the possible pricing. Some companies even offer payment plans if you’re economically struggling. The general costs for an IID and installation include:

  • $70 - $100 for installation;
  • $60$80 for monthly calibration costs;
  • $100 for a refundable deposit; and
  • Possibly monthly insurance charges

Back to top

Additional Resources

IID Laws in Texas – Visit the official website of Texas Transportation Code to learn more about laws surrounding ignition interlock devices. Access the statute to learn requirements for IID vendors, how long an IID is required and how it applies to restricted licenses.

Ignition Interlock Devices – Visit the official website of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to learn more about IID. Access the site to find more information about required fees, what happens to your license and where to submit IID compliance documents.


DWI Lawyer for IID in Harris County, Texas

If you or someone you know has been charged with DWI, it’s crucial you gain legal counsel. You could possibly face serious consequences including fines and even incarceration. Additionally, you could be saddled with an ignition interlock device, which can restrict you even more.

Call Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc. to speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney. We understand the ins and outs of DWI law in Texas.  Our attorneys can evaluate your charges and chart out a defense plan that works for you. Contact us by phone at (713) 224-5529 to schedule a free consultation.

Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc. represents clients throughout the Houston metroplex area including Pasadena, West University Place, Tomball and River Oaks.



This article was last updated on March 11th, 2019.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR CASE

Use the form to submit your request for a free consultation.
Name(Required)
Email(Required)

*Use of this form does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.

NOT GUILTY
Driving While Intoxicated (Blood Draw .16)
Client had bond forfeited while case was pending for not being able to attend trial when Judge ordered us to be there due to his teaching job at Texas A&M University. When he finally...read more
Read More Case Results
Tyler Flood & Associates
2019 Washington Ave. #300
Houston, TX 77007
(713) 224-5529
Get Directions to Our Office

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

CERTIFIED
Robert Henderson
Robert Henderson
December 22, 2023.
I want to give a special thanks to Tyler Flood & Associates. Getting charged with a dwi was the worst feeling and situation I've been in, but the professionalism and confidence that Tyler Fllod & Associates showed throughout my case definitely helped me get some sleep at night. Then when they called and let me know that my case was dismissed and all charges dropped was incredible. Once again, thanks to Tyler Flood & Associates.
Zeta Ze
Zeta Ze
December 15, 2023.
Houston DWI/DUI Tyler Flood is the best lawyer to represent you in a DWI/DUI case. Mr. Flood saved my license from being suspended in a non-refusal weekend. In a case, where I feel I did everything wrong and had 0 chance, in my opinion, for a dismissal, my only hope and chance was to hire Mr. Flood and his firm. Having had previous experience with Mr. Flood's firm, I felt that if I had any percentage chance of a dismissal, I had to go with Mr. Flood again. As I am writing this review, I'm still in shock and awe in how Mr. Flood was able to get a dismissal before trial completely started. Mr. Flood knew the law better than the arresting officer and Prosecutors. Even the judge was impressed and paid him a compliment after the dismissal. In my opinion, if you want a fighting chance, hire Mr. Flood and his firm. Mr. Flood genuinely cares about all his clients and does not merely see you as a customer. He and his team are always working on your case. Trust his process. They are absolutely the BEST.
briana Munoz
briana Munoz
December 5, 2023.
Thanks to Tyler Flood I am able to continue my life, him and his partners were amazing in guiding me throughout this hard process. Tyler and his team got me a CASE DISMISSED on my DWI case. His team kept in contact with me on every small detail about my case while being able to thoroughly explain every possibility for me. I also never had to step foot in a courtroom! Him and his team had my back every step of the way and never made me feel like it was not going to be okay. Tyler flood is the BEST DWI/DUI attorney no doubt, please consider letting him take your case if you are ever in need of an amazing lawyer.
A D
A D
October 19, 2023.
When I found myself in a precarious situation and didn’t know where or who to turn to I was recommended to Tyler Flood and Associates. After researching and reading many reviews I decided to hire and retain Flood and Associates services. This was one of the best decisions I made in my life, not only were they there for me in every dim moment and never too busy to answer every question I had whether it was frivolous or not, his expertise was demonstrated to me during my trial. So much so that two other defendants asked for his name and number during my trial. He fought tooth-and-nail for me and he will for you too. I’m only rating him five stars because I can’t rate him any higher. I’ll thank him for the rest of my life.
Dylan
Dylan
October 12, 2023.
Houston DWI/DUI Attorney Tyler Flood is the best in the business! Tyler and his team made the entire process stress free for what is a very stressful situation. From winning the first administrative hearing (to retain my license/avoid a breathalyzer) to getting the dismissal before trial even started. He is truly the best in the business!
Cesar Ricardez
Cesar Ricardez
October 3, 2023.
I hired Tyler Flood the day after my DUI arrest after reading glowing reviews about him and I couldn’t be happier that I did so. He took care of both my cases to keep my driving rights and the misdemeanor DUI charge in court. I never even had to appear in court or do anything, him and his team took care of anything while I carried on with my life and would just get updates whenever they appeared in court on my behalf. At the end, my driver license was never suspended and they got my case dismissed. Lesson learned, I don’t wish anyone to get in my situation but if you do, don’t hesitate to hire Tyler Flood and his team, they are extremely professional and they go for the win. No deal, no probation, got it all dismissed.
M J
M J
September 14, 2023.
Tyler Flood, Houston DWI/DUI attorney is fantastic! He is professional, smart and takes pride in getting the best possible outcome for you. This was my second DWI and I didn't want to take chances. I found him on Google and I too was in disbelief with all the 5.0 star reviews. Upon meeting him I quickly discovered it was all true. A lawyer with his own science lab WTH??????? Long story short he got my case dismissed without going to court. You can not put a price on freedom. The only downside is I only hope to need his services this one time. 😀 Thanks again Mr. Flood God bless.
John Sellers
John Sellers
August 31, 2023.
Houston DUI/DWI attorney Tyler Flood is the guy to go to!! I started my journey with these guys on August 4th of this year, my case was dismissed before the end of the month!! Well worth it!! They are organized and efficient, kept me informed of what was going on and answered all my questions. I have shared with my friends and definitely recommend to anyone.
texasdiamonds
texasdiamonds
August 29, 2023.
Houston DUI/DWI attorney Tyler Flood is an outstanding attorney and person. If you are in need of a lawyer who understands the panic and sheer fear a family feels when this happens in their lives,Tyler Flood is the attorney for you. He has an outstanding educational background, his office includes an on-site, state-of-the-arts laboratory, and he is surrounded with a legal team to provide background and research data for him to be successful in representing you. He is a One-of-Kind, highly accomplished attorney that will promptly respond to you throughout the duration of your case. Seriously, this guy NEVER sleeps! Tyler Flood understands the importance of a person’s reputation and the seriousness of a DUI/DWI charge. If you choose to work with him, he will work with you to be successful! Tyler Flood is AWESOME!
Trey Perrett
Trey Perrett
August 14, 2023.
Words cannot express what a dominating lawyer Tyler Flood and his team are. I ran into some trouble in 2021 and I was just getting my family, career ,and life together. I was completely scared of what the repercussions could be for the rest of my life. I asked civil layers who they recommend and repeatedly Tyler Flood’s name was given to me. At my first appointment, I was overcome with anxiety of what will happen next. Tyler put me at ease immediately. He believed I had a case. They were great on response time and helping me navigate the often confusing legal system. It’s a long process to have a case brought to trial but I knew I had an amazing lawyer and his team in my corner. Finally, I received the call that my case was dismissed, and I was cleared of all charges. I could not be happier with the way he and his colleagues handled my case and brought home the W. I strongly recommend having Tyler Flood in your corner because he delivers.
VIEW MORE TESTIMONIALS
Disclaimer: The information on this website does NOT constitute legal advice. If you need legal advice, then retain an attorney to discuss the facts of your case. If you would like to discuss your case with an attorney at Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc., then please contact us to schedule a consultation. Until we specifically agree to act for you on a matter, you should not provide us with any confidential information or material.
Copyright © 2024 Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc.
chevron-down
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram