Ignition Interlock System

As well as the Back on Track program, drinking drivers are required to have an ignition interlock system installed in any car they drive.

The convicted drinking driver must pay $1500 for the cost and installation of the device.  See information here: Ontario Ministry of Transport-Ignition Interlock Device

The ignition interlock device is an in-car Alcohol Breath Screening device that prevents a vehicle from starting if it detects a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) over a pre-set limit of .02 (i.e., 20 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood). The device is located inside the vehicle, near the driver’s seat, and is connected to the engine's ignition system.

Before starting the vehicle, a driver must blow into the device. If the driver’s Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is above the pre-set limit, the vehicle will not start.

Once the vehicle is started, the interlock device requires the driver to provide breath samples at random pre-set times while the engine is running. If a sample is not provided, or if the BAC exceeds the limit, the device will issue a warning, record the event and activate specific alarm systems (e.g., lights flashing, horn honking, etc.), until the ignition is turned off.

After serving the current provincial sanctions, including licence suspensions and a mandatory remedial program, those eligible to have their driver’s licence reinstated will have an ignition interlock condition placed on their driver’s licence for at least one year. Drivers who choose not to install a device must not drive until the condition is removed from their licence.

First-time offenders will have an ignition interlock condition on their licence(s) for a minimum of one year.

Second-time offenders will have the condition for a minimum of three years.

Third-time offenders will have a lifetime ignition interlock condition placed on their licence(s), if it is reinstated after a minimum 10-year suspension. The program does not apply to fourth-time offenders, as their licence(s) will never be reinstated.

The driver must register with an approved service provider to have an ignition interlock installed. The device must be inspected regularly by the service provider, at cost to the driver of approximately one hundred dollars per month.

When the condition period is over, the driver must apply to the Ministry of Transportation to have the condition removed from his or her licence.

The device is installed for the ignition interlock condition period. It must be used by anyone who drives the vehicle, including family and friends. Offenders can choose not to drive until the ignition interlock condition is removed from their licence.

Drivers subject to an ignition interlock condition are responsible for all installation and maintenance costs for the device. The service provider will provide related information, including fees, when a driver registers for the program.