Ignition Interlock Devices in Surprise: Costs & Requirements [2025]

admin·May 5, 2025·0 comments

At Arizona DUI Pros, we understand how overwhelming a DUI charge can be. Many clients from Surprise, Arizona, ask us: What happens after a DUI? One of the most common legal consequences is the mandatory use of Ignition Interlock Devices.

These devices are designed to monitor your sobriety while you’re behind the wheel and are legally required under Arizona law in many DUI cases. If you or a loved one is facing DUI charges, contact Arizona DUI Pros at (602) 922-3755 for a confidential consultation. We’ll help you navigate this complex requirement, including installation, costs, duration, and compliance.

Understanding ARS §28-3319

Arizona Revised Statute §28-3319 governs the rules around Ignition Interlock Devices. Under this law, individuals convicted of certain DUI offenses must install these devices in their vehicle for a period ranging from 6 to 24 months, depending on the nature and severity of the offense.

Key provisions of ARS §28-3319:

  • Mandatory for all DUI convictions, including first-time offenses

  • Applies to aggravated DUI, extreme DUI, and super extreme DUI

  • Early removal possible under compliance, but only after 6 months

  • Noncompliance can result in license suspension or extension of the interlock period

At Arizona DUI Pros, we analyze the specifics of your case to determine whether any exceptions or reductions may apply under ARS §28-3319.

Costs of Ignition Interlock Devices in Surprise

Ignition Interlock Devices aren’t just legally mandated—they come with a financial burden. Many residents in Surprise ask about the cost, which typically includes:

  • Installation Fees: $70–$150

  • Monthly Monitoring Fees: $60–$100

  • Removal Fees: $50–$100

  • Missed Appointment Fees: Additional charges apply

So, over a 12-month period, you could be looking at a total cost of approximately $1,200 to $1,500. These devices must be installed by a state-certified provider, and records must be shared with ADOT/MVD.

For people facing financial hardship, Arizona DUI Pros may help you petition for a reduced-cost interlock requirement. Call (602) 922-3755 to see if you qualify.

Requirements for Installation

What Are the Legal Requirements?

If ordered by the court or MVD, you must:

  • Install the device on every vehicle you drive

  • Keep it installed for the full term (6–24 months)

  • Regularly report to the service provider for calibration and data collection

  • Avoid tampering or attempting to bypass the device

Failure to follow any of these requirements can lead to:

  • License suspension

  • Revocation of driving privileges

  • Extension of the interlock period

Ignition Interlock Devices work by measuring your breath for alcohol before your car starts. Some models also include rolling retests, which require you to blow into the device while driving to ensure ongoing sobriety.

How Ignition Interlock Devices Work: Tech Behind the Wheel

For many drivers in Surprise, understanding how Ignition Interlock Devices operate can reduce anxiety and promote successful compliance. These devices aren’t just alcohol detectors—they’re precision machines regulated by Arizona law to ensure roadway safety.

🔍 Basic Components of Ignition Interlock Devices

Most Ignition Interlock Devices consist of the following:

  • Mouthpiece: Where you blow to submit your breath sample

  • Fuel Cell Sensor: Detects and measures alcohol content in your breath

  • Control Unit: Interprets test results and determines if the vehicle can start

  • Wiring System: Connects the device to the ignition system

  • Rolling Retest Mechanism: Prompts you to blow again while driving

These devices use electrochemical fuel cell sensors, which are highly accurate for detecting ethanol (the alcohol found in alcoholic beverages).

🚘 Startup Test Process

Every time you start your vehicle, the device will prompt you to:

  1. Turn on the ignition (engine won’t start yet)

  2. Wait for the device to warm up (15–45 seconds)

  3. Blow into the mouthpiece for 5 seconds

  4. Wait for a PASS/FAIL indicator

If your BAC is above the preset limit (typically 0.02%), the car will not start.

🔁 Rolling Retests

Once you’re on the road, Ignition Interlock Devices will require random rolling retests to confirm continued sobriety. You’ll be notified through:

  • Audible beeps

  • Flashing lights

  • Display screen messages

Failing or missing a rolling test can lead to a violation report, extension of the interlock period, or license suspension.

📡 Data Reporting

These devices automatically:

  • Store all breath test results

  • Record engine starts and stops

  • Log failed attempts and tampering events

  • Transmit data to the Arizona MVD or supervising court electronically or during monthly calibration appointments

🛠️ Maintenance and Calibration

Arizona mandates monthly calibration by a state-certified provider. This ensures accuracy and allows courts to monitor compliance.

If you’re unsure whether your Ignition Interlock Device is working correctly, contact Arizona DUI Pros at (602) 922-3755. We can guide you on proper use and connect you with certified local technicians in Surprise.

Scenario 1: A First-Time Offense in Surprise

Meet Lisa, a 28-year-old elementary school teacher from Surprise. She attended a Friday night happy hour with friends and drove home after two margaritas. Unfortunately, she was stopped at a DUI checkpoint and arrested with a BAC of 0.10%.

Lisa was charged with a first-time DUI under ARS §28-1381(A)(2). Her conviction resulted in a mandatory 12-month installation of an Ignition Interlock Device.

Navigating the System

Lisa contacted Arizona DUI Pros at (602) 922-3755 the next day. Our attorneys explained ARS §28-3319 and helped her:

  • File MVD paperwork

  • Choose a certified installation provider in Surprise

  • Understand her rights if the device malfunctions

  • Petition for early removal after 6 months of compliance

Despite the initial shock, Lisa was relieved to have trusted professionals guide her through the process. The Ignition Interlock Device cost her around $1,200 for the year, but with proper legal help, she avoided further penalties and returned to her routine safely and legally.

Scenario 2: A Repeat DUI Offender

Now meet Miguel, a 41-year-old HVAC technician and a father of three. Miguel had a DUI eight years ago and recently got pulled over in Surprise for speeding. This time, he failed field sobriety tests and blew a 0.18% BAC—an extreme DUI under ARS §28-1382(A)(1).

Harsh Penalties Await

Given his prior, Miguel faced mandatory jail time, high fines, and a 24-month Ignition Interlock Device requirement per ARS §28-3319.

After contacting Arizona DUI Pros at (602) 922-3755, we immediately:

  • Requested a MVD hearing to preserve his license

  • Negotiated with prosecutors for reduced jail time

  • Connected him with financial aid for the interlock costs

  • Created a compliance plan to avoid violations

The Ignition Interlock Device posed a challenge—especially the rolling retests during job hours—but with support and planning, Miguel kept his job and learned to adapt. He completed the full 24-month requirement without extensions or additional charges.

How to Avoid Common Violations with Ignition Interlock Devices

A violation while using Ignition Interlock Devices can lead to harsh consequences—extension of the device period, license suspension, or even new criminal charges. Many violations are unintentional, and knowing how to avoid them is key to successful completion of your DUI requirements in Surprise.

🚫 Common Violations You Should Avoid

1. Failing a Breath Test

  • Blowing into the device after recent alcohol use (even if under the legal limit)

  • Using mouthwash or breath spray with alcohol content

  • Eating food or drinking non-alcoholic beer just before testing

2. Missing a Rolling Retest

  • Ignoring the alert while driving

  • Pulling over too late

  • Turning off the vehicle without completing the test

3. Skipping a Monthly Calibration

  • Failing to show up to your required appointment

  • Rescheduling too many times without cause

4. Tampering with the Device

  • Attempting to disable or bypass the system

  • Letting someone else blow into the device for you

  • Using compressed air or fake breath samples

Each of these actions is immediately logged and reported to the Arizona MVD or court, and may result in penalties under ARS §28-3319.

✅ Best Practices to Stay Compliant

To successfully navigate your Ignition Interlock Device requirement, follow these tips:

  • Avoid alcohol-based products before testing—including mouthwash, hand sanitizers, and certain medications

  • Plan rolling tests into your route—don’t test while in traffic or at intersections

  • Always show up for calibration—mark it on your calendar or use reminder apps

  • Never share the vehicle without clear instructions—anyone who drives your car can trigger violations

🆘 What to Do If You Get a Violation

If you accidentally trigger a violation:

  • Do not panic—document the situation (time, location, what you consumed)

  • Contact Arizona DUI Pros immediately at (602) 922-3755

  • Request a review or retest if the device malfunctioned

  • Speak to your provider about possible causes and recalibration

Violations are stressful, but many can be explained or resolved. Let Arizona DUI Pros help you avoid unnecessary extensions or penalties with proactive planning and expert defense.

FAQs About Ignition Interlock Devices

Q1: Can I drive any car without an Ignition Interlock Device?
No. If required by the court or MVD, you must only operate vehicles equipped with the device—even rentals.

Q2: What happens if the device malfunctions?
Report the issue to your provider immediately. Arizona DUI Pros can also help dispute any violations logged by faulty devices.

Q3: Can others drive my car with the device installed?
Yes, but they must provide a clean breath sample to operate the vehicle. Their results still count toward your compliance record.

Q4: Are there ways to shorten the duration?
Sometimes. After 6 months of clean driving, you may be eligible for early removal—but only if approved by MVD and court.

Q5: Is there a waiting list for installation providers?
Some providers in Surprise may have wait times. Arizona DUI Pros can help you get on a fast-track list with local, certified vendors.

Relevant ARS Statutes

Here are the most relevant Arizona Revised Statutes relating to Ignition Interlock Devices:

Each of these statutes works together to define when and how Ignition Interlock Devices must be used. Arizona DUI Pros will ensure your case is handled according to current law and help you avoid violations.

Conclusion: Speak to Arizona DUI Pros Today

Whether it’s your first DUI or you’re facing repeat charges, dealing with Ignition Interlock Devices in Arizona can be stressful and expensive. But you don’t have to go through it alone.

At Arizona DUI Pros, we are proud to serve Surprise and surrounding communities with personalized DUI defense. We stay up-to-date with changes to ARS §28-3319 and will guide you through the process—from court hearings to interlock installation.

Call us today at (602) 922-3755 to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward regaining your driving privileges. Our team is ready to fight for your future.

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