Larkin Ingrassia Criminal Defense Attorneys | June 9, 2025 | Criminal Defense
If you’re convicted of a DWI in New York, one of the penalties you might face is the requirement to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle. These devices are designed to stop people from driving under the influence by requiring a breath test before the engine can start.
New York’s ignition interlock laws are strict, and they apply to nearly every DWI conviction, no matter your age or whether it was your first offense. Learning about how they work and how long they’ll be required is an important part of navigating the aftermath of a conviction.
What Is an Ignition Interlock Device?
An ignition interlock device is basically a small breathalyzer that is wired into your vehicle’s ignition system. Before starting your car, you’ll have to blow into the device to prove that you haven’t been drinking. If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is over the legal limit, the vehicle will not start.
Many IIDs also require you to take rolling retests while driving. That means you’ll need to blow into the device at random intervals during a trip to ensure you haven’t consumed alcohol after getting behind the wheel.
When Is an Ignition Interlock Device Required in New York?
Under Leandra’s Law, New York requires ignition interlock devices for all DWI offenses, even for first-time offenders.
This includes people convicted under the following laws:
- Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
- Aggravated DWI (BAC of .18 or higher)
- DWAI with a prior DWI-related offense
Once convicted, the court usually orders you to install an IID on any vehicle you own or operate for at least 12 months. In some cases, the judge might extend the period. Even if your license is suspended or revoked, you can’t legally drive again until the device is installed and monitored.
Who Pays for the Ignition Interlock Device?
If the court orders you to install an ignition interlock device, you’ll be responsible for all costs associated with it.
These may include some or all of the following:
- Installation fee
- Monthly monitoring fee
- Removal fee when the period ends
If you cannot afford the cost, you can request a financial hardship determination. In limited cases, the court may waive some of the expenses or direct the county to assist with payment.
What Happens if I Drive Without the Device?
Driving without an IID after the court has ordered one is a crime. It’s considered a Class A misdemeanor in New York. If you’re caught, you could face:
- Up to one year in jail
- Additional fines
- Longer ignition interlock requirements
- Revocation of your conditional or restored license
Tampering with the device or trying to trick it (like having someone else blow into it) can also lead to criminal charges and harsher penalties.
Can I Drive With a Conditional License?
Yes, New York allows some DWI offenders to apply for a conditional license. This lets you drive to certain places, such as work, school, medical appointments, or court-ordered treatment. However, you must still have an IID installed on your vehicle, even with a conditional license.
Failing to follow these restrictions can result in your license being suspended again and may add more penalties to your record.
Contact a New York [Practice area] lawyer at Larkin Ingrassia Criminal Defense Attorneys Today
If you’ve been charged with DWI in New York, an ignition interlock device may be just one part of the consequences you face. A skilled criminal defense lawyer at Larkin Ingrassia Criminal Defense Attorneys can review the facts of your case and help you explore your options for reducing charges, avoiding jail time, or even keeping your license.
Don’t wait to get help. Legal representation can make a big difference in how your case moves forward, including how long you’ll have to deal with an ignition interlock device. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
We conveniently serve in 3 locations in New York, including Middletown, Newburgh, and Kingston.
We proudly serve Orange County, Ulster County, and their surrounding areas:
Larkin Ingrassia Criminal Defense Attorneys – Middletown
626 E Main St
Middletown, NY 10940
(845) 566 5345
Larkin Ingrassia Criminal Defense Attorneys – Newburgh
356 Meadow Ave
Newburgh, NY 12550
(845) 566-5345
Larkin Ingrassia Criminal Defense Attorneys – Kingston
233 Fair St Suite #1
Kingston, NY 12401
(845) 566-5345