In the State of North Dakota, courts may order a person convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) to install an ignition interlock device (IID). An IID is basically a breathalyzer that is connected to the ignition of a vehicle. Before the vehicle will start, the driver must blow into the IID to determine if the individual has had too much to drink or not. If the person fails the test, the vehicle won’t start. In North Dakota, IIDs may be ordered for drivers who have been convicted of two (2) or more DUIs within five (5) years.
Before installing an IID, though, the offender must serve a license suspension period. After that period is over, the offender may get a restricted license that allows driving vehicles equipped with an IID. The IID stores data showing all attempts to bypass or circumvent the device, attempts to start the vehicle, and breath alcohol concentration (BAC). The offender is responsible for all costs associated with the IID.
North Dakota has the following periods of driving suspension:
- Up to 180 days for 1st offense
- One (1) year for 2nd offense
- Three (3) years for 3rd and 4th offenses