Ignition Interlock License

Many drivers facing a suspension or revocation of their license due to a Washington DUI or physical control arrest will be able to continue to drive with a special temporary restricted license – an Ignition Interlock License (IIL). An Ignition Interlock License will allow a driver to continue to drive for any reason at any time, if they meet the eligibility requirements with the DOL and submit the necessary application form and fees. To qualify for an IIL you must have an Ignition Interlock Device installed on any vehicle you drive with certain limited exceptions for work vehicles.

To apply for an ignition interlock license, a driver must:

• Fill out and send to the DOL the appropriate application form and fee.
• Have an ignition interlock device installed and proof sent to the DOL by the IID provider.
• Obtain SR-22 insurance and have proof sent to the DOL by your insurance agent.

While you will need to have an IID installed on a vehicle to obtain the Ignition Interlock License, you can avoid using an IID on certain work relate vehicles by submitting an employer declaration to the DOL. You will not need to install an IID on the following vehicles when driven as a requirement of employment during working hours:

• Vehicles owned, leased, or rented by your employer;
• Vehicles whose care and/or maintenance is the temporary responsibility of the employer.

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions regarding Ignition Interlock Licenses:

Who will qualify for an IIL?

Any driver who has been convicted of a DUI or Physical Control or who has or will lose his or her license pursuant to an administrative hearing under 46.20.308 will be eligible for an IIL. This includes drivers who lose their license for breath or blood test refusals and clients arrested for Minor Driving After Consuming Alcohol, RCW 46.61.503.

How much will the IIL cost?

The fees associated with an IIL include:

• An application fee of $100 sent to the DOL with your application;
• A $20.00 per month fee paid to the Ignition Interlock Device company which is deposited in a special account to help fund access to Ignition Interlock Devices for indigent drivers;
• The cost of the ignition interlock device installation and fees;
• The cost of SR-22 insurance.

How long will it take to get an IIL?

This will be up to the Department of Licensing. Currently, the DOL is processing applications within 2-3 weeks.

What happens if I violates the terms of the IIL?

It is a criminal offense to violate the terms of an Ignition Interlock License punishable by up to a year in jail and up to a $5000.00 fine. RCW 46.20.410.

I have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), will the IIL allow me to continue to drive a commercial vehicle?

No. Unfortunately, those with a CDL will not be allowed to drive a commercial motor vehicle with an IIL. However, you will be able to drive a non-commercial vehicle.