If your Minnesota driver’s license has been revoked or cancelled because of a DWI or other qualified impaired driving incident, you may be able to regain your driving privileges by participating in the MN Ignition Interlock Device Program (IIDP). In this blog, we will tell you about the reasons you may want or need to enter the IIDP and answer some common questions we hear about the law and the program.
Why the Ignition Interlock Device Program Matters
Let’s face it—losing your license can throw your life into chaos. Whether it’s commuting to work, caring for family, or simply maintaining your independence, the inability to legally drive affects everything. That’s where the Minnesota Ignition Interlock Device Program (IIDP) can be a lifeline. It doesn’t erase your DWI offense, but it gives you a path forward—safely and legally.
We often hear people say, “Why would I want to voluntarily install something so restrictive?” But the truth is, ignition interlock devices give you options. Instead of sitting out a revocation period for months—or even years—you can regain your driving privileges much faster, often with fewer day-to-day limitations.
Who needs to use an ignition interlock device?
Minnesota law requires a driver whose license was revoked as a result of two or more alcohol offenses in ten years, or three or more in a lifetime, to complete the ignition interlock device program.
Ignition interlock is available, but not required, for first-time offenses including those with breath-alcohol tests 0.16 or more and refusal to take the alcohol test. In those cases, the driver may choose to wait out their revocation period (and may be eligible for a limited license after 15 days), or they may enter the IIDP and drive with no waiting period.
Keep in mind that early entry into the program doesn’t just allow you to drive—it also puts you on the clock toward full license reinstatement. Waiting it out might sound appealing, but it delays your recovery timeline. For most clients, especially those with jobs, kids, or caregiving duties, the ability to drive right away outweighs the temporary hassle of installation and monitoring.
And don’t worry: your participation in the program is not permanent. The goal of the IIDP is to help you regain your license and build a track record of safe, sober driving. As long as you remain in compliance, you’ll eventually be able to drive without restrictions again.
How long will I need to be on ignition interlock?
The chart below outlines the revocation periods and their start times based on the number of offenses you have had within ten years, or within a lifetime, and your blood alcohol concentration (BAC).
| Offense | Revocation Period | Revocation Start |
|---|---|---|
| 1st offense, BAC under 0.16 | 90 days | 7 days from offense date |
| 1st offense, BAC 0.16 or over | 1 year | 7 days from offense date |
| 1st offense, test refusal | 1 year | 7 days from offense date |
| 2nd offense in lifetime (greater than 10 years since 1st offense), BAC under 0.16 | 90 days | 7 days from offense date |
| 2nd offense in lifetime (greater than 10 years since 1st offense), BAC 0.16 or over | 1 year | 7 days from offense date |
| 2nd offense in 10 years, BAC under 0.16 | 1 year | Upon admission to IIDP |
| 2nd offense in 10 years, BAC 0.16 or over | 2 years | Upon admission to IIDP |
| 2nd offense, test refusal | 2 years | Upon admission to IIDP |
| 3rd offense (any test level or refusal) in 10 years | 3 years | Upon admission to IIDP |
| 4th offense (any test level or refusal) in 10 years | 4 years | Upon admission to IIDP |
| 5th or greater offense (any test level or refusal) in 10 years | 6 years | Upon admission to IIDP |
| 3rd offense in lifetime (greater than 10 years since last offense), BAC under 0.16 | 1 year | Upon admission to IIDP |
| 3rd offense in lifetime (greater than 10 years since last offense), BAC 0.16 or over | 2 years | Upon admission to IIDP |
| 4th offense in lifetime (greater than 10 years since last offense) (any test level or refusal) | 3 years | Upon admission to IIDP |
| 5th or greater offense in lifetime (greater than 10 years since last offense) (any test level or refusal) | 6 years | Upon admission to IIDP |
The revocation period for second and subsequent offenses begins once a person is admitted to the IIDP. This means that if you don’t start the program immediately after your offense (whether because your license was temporarily reinstated during the criminal case or because you just didn’t start the program right away), you are not eligible for full license reinstatement until you have completed the entire revocation period on the IIDP.
This often catches people off guard. Let’s say you delay enrolling in the program for six months. That delay doesn’t count toward your revocation period — you’d still need to complete the full one, two, or even six years after joining. It’s one of the most important reasons we recommend acting quickly after your DWI arrest. If you’re unsure about how long your revocation period will be, or whether you’re eligible to begin now, it’s worth talking to a defense attorney who can help you calculate your best next step.
If someone else got a DWI in my car, do I still need ignition interlock?
No, not unless that person intends to drive that vehicle during their revocation period. If the person who got the DWI does want to drive your car, even if it is in your name, your car will need ignition interlock.
An exception to this is if it is a company-owned vehicle. The person may be able to get an exception to drive a company-owned vehicle without ignition interlock installed for employment purposes only.
How do I enter the program?
The DVS website provides a lot of information including program guidelines, how to apply, program forms, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Generally, the steps to start the program are: pay the license reinstatement fee, apply for a new license, sign the program agreement and special review awareness form, provide proof of insurance, and arrange for installation by a certified vendor.
If you have had a previous insurance-related conviction, you will need to provide a certificate of insurance called an SR-22.
What if I own more than one vehicle?
You only need to install ignition interlock in the vehicle(s) you wish to drive during the revocation period. If you own more than one vehicle, but don’t intend to drive more than one, you can just install ignition interlock in one. But, if you want to be able to drive all of the vehicles, each one will need to be equipped with ignition interlock.
We also get a lot of questions from business owners or families with multiple shared vehicles. In these cases, it may make more sense to consolidate driving into a single vehicle to avoid the expense of multiple installations. That said, if you need to drive more than one vehicle regularly, the law requires that each one be equipped with a compliant device. Trying to drive a non-equipped vehicle—even if you own it—can lead to serious consequences, including criminal charges or revocation from the IIDP.
Can I install ignition interlock on a motorcycle?
As of now, most ignition interlock providers will not install a device on a motorcycle. This is because of several factors, including weather exposure that could damage the device, too much vibration and jostling that the device cannot withstand, lack of a place to securely store the device, power draw on the cycle’s engine, and the fact that a motorcycle driver is unlikely to hear the sound of the device alerting them to take a “rolling test.” One installer I spoke with described the devices as “sensitive machines” and said that one installed on a vehicle exposed to the elements would be subject to damage, and said that there is no room for a camera or modem, which are required to operate the device, on most motorcycles.
But, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has conducted a study examining the feasibility of alcohol interlocks on motorcycles. So, increased availability of installing interlock on a motorcycle may be in our future.
What about installing ignition interlock on recreational vehicles such as ATVs, snowmobiles, and boats?
If you lose your driver’s license in Minnesota, state law also prohibits you from driving off-road recreational vehicles and boats for the same period of time your license is revoked.
The Minnesota Ignition Interlock Device Program law states that a “program participant may operate an off-road recreational vehicle or motorboat only if it is equipped with an approved ignition interlock device . . .” But can an interlock be installed in such a vehicle? Unfortunately, none of the DVS-approved Minnesota installers currently provide recreational vehicle ignition interlocks, likely for the same reasons they don’t install on motorcycles.
This creates a tricky situation. While the law technically allows you to drive these types of vehicles with an ignition interlock, the lack of available installation options means most participants are effectively barred from using them. This includes snowmobiles, ATVs, and boats—even if you only use them seasonally or on private land. If your lifestyle or job requires recreational or off-road vehicle use, speak with your attorney about alternatives, exceptions, or how this limitation may affect your probation or revocation period.
Who can I talk to for more information?
You can learn a lot from the Department of Public Safety (DPS) website. Ignition Interlock installation companies are also great sources of information about their products and how to arrange for installation.
What Happens If You Violate the Ignition Interlock Program?
Mistakes happen—but when you’re in the IIDP, even small missteps can cause major setbacks. Missed tests, failed rolling retests, tampering with the device, or driving a non-equipped vehicle can all result in sanctions. These may include removal from the program, longer revocation periods, or in some cases, new criminal charges.
If the device records a violation, the Department of Public Safety may notify your probation officer or initiate a review. This is why it’s so important to fully understand the program rules and ask questions when you’re unsure. If you’ve already been flagged for a violation, speaking with an attorney right away can help you protect your license status and prevent further complications.
Common Misconceptions About the MN Ignition Interlock Program
Many people enter the MN ignition interlock program with misunderstandings about what’s required and how the process works. Some assume it’s only for repeat offenders. Others think it will be a permanent part of their driving experience. In reality, the ignition interlock MN program is a temporary and structured path to restoring your license and legal driving privileges.
The MN interlock program is designed to help eligible drivers return to the road responsibly. It’s not a punishment — it’s a monitored second chance. Understanding how the system works, from installation to compliance, is essential if you want to avoid setbacks and regain full driving privileges as quickly as possible.
How the MN Ignition Interlock Program Works with Different Offense Levels
The MN ignition interlock timeline varies depending on the number of offenses and whether the driver refused a chemical test or had a high blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Minnesota uses both 10-year and lifetime lookback periods to determine eligibility and revocation length.
Here’s a breakdown of how offense history affects ignition interlock requirements:
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First-time offense under 0.16 BAC: Optional program participation. License can be reinstated after a short waiting period, or you can enroll in the program and drive immediately.
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First-time offense with BAC 0.16 or higher: Eligible for immediate driving with interlock; otherwise, a one-year revocation applies.
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Refusal to test: Considered a serious offense. Participation in the MN interlock program allows you to drive right away, while refusal without program participation leads to longer penalties.
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Multiple offenses within 10 years: Mandatory participation with increasing revocation periods. The more prior offenses you have, the longer you’ll be required to use ignition interlock.
The sooner you enroll, the sooner your revocation period officially begins. Delaying enrollment only delays reinstatement. This is a key detail many drivers miss and one that can cost valuable time if misunderstood.
MN Ignition Interlock Statute and Compliance Requirements
Under the MN ignition interlock statute, participants must use a DVS-approved ignition interlock device that includes a camera, GPS, and data-reporting features. Compliance involves more than simply installing the device — it requires consistent, sober operation and strict adherence to the MN interlock rules.
Some key compliance rules include:
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Passing all breath tests before starting and during operation
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Submitting to random rolling retests while driving
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Avoiding missed tests or disconnections
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Never attempting to drive a non-equipped vehicle
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Avoiding tampering or circumvention of the device
Violations are taken seriously. Even a single failed test or missed rolling retest can result in sanctions from the Department of Public Safety (DPS), such as extended revocation periods, removal from the program, or a report to your probation officer.
Costs Associated with MN Ignition Interlock
While the MN ignition interlock program provides a path to license reinstatement, it does come with financial costs that participants must plan for. These may include:
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Installation fees (typically $100–$200)
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Monthly monitoring and rental fees (average $75–$125)
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Calibration and maintenance fees
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Potential removal fees at the end of the program
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Additional costs if violations occur
These costs are not covered by the state, and failure to keep up with payment may result in removal from the program. Some providers offer financial assistance or flexible payment plans, so be sure to ask about those options during your consultation.
What to Do If You’re Accused of Violating MN Interlock Rules
One of the most common reasons people fail in the MN ignition interlock program is not fully understanding the rules. If your device records a failed test, rolling test refusal, or suspected tampering, you could receive a violation notice from DPS. In some cases, you may be removed from the program and required to reapply after a longer revocation period.
If this happens, act quickly:
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Review your violation notice carefully
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Consult your criminal defense attorney immediately
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Gather supporting evidence, such as medical explanations, witness statements, or maintenance records
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Work with your provider to confirm device accuracy and proper use
Violations can sometimes be appealed, and legal representation may help you avoid additional penalties or criminal charges.
Get Legal Help for MN Ignition Interlock or DWI Charges
As always, if you need legal assistance for the underlying offense that led to the revocation of your license, the experienced DWI lawyers at Sieben Edmunds Miller are happy to answer any questions you may have and are available to represent you in your criminal case.
FAQ Section: Minnesota Ignition Interlock Program
How many interlock violations can you have in MN?
The MN ignition interlock program has strict compliance rules. While there’s no official set number of violations allowed, repeated violations can lead to serious consequences. A single failed breath test, missed rolling retest, or tampering incident can trigger a warning, and multiple violations may result in extended revocation periods, removal from the program, or new criminal charges. It’s critical to maintain full compliance and contact a defense attorney if you receive any violation notice.
How long is ignition interlock required?
The length of time you’re required to use an ignition interlock in MN depends on your offense history and BAC level. For example:
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First offense with BAC under 0.16: 90 days (optional)
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Second offense: 1 to 2 years
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Third offense: 3 years
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Fourth offense: 4 years
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Fifth or more offenses: 6 years
The countdown begins only after you’re admitted into the MN ignition interlock program, so delays in joining can push back your reinstatement date.
What is the Minnesota Ignition Interlock Program?
The Minnesota Ignition Interlock Program (IIDP) allows eligible drivers whose licenses were revoked or cancelled due to DWI or impaired driving incidents to regain limited or full driving privileges. Participants install a breath alcohol ignition interlock device in their vehicle, which prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected. The program helps ensure safe driving while offering a structured path to license reinstatement.
Who is required to participate in the MN Ignition Interlock Program?
Participation in the MN interlock program is required for anyone with:
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Two or more alcohol-related offenses within 10 years
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Three or more alcohol-related offenses in a lifetime
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Cancelled or denied licenses due to public safety concerns
First-time offenders with high BAC or a test refusal are not required to enter the program, but may choose to do so for earlier reinstatement. Early enrollment allows driving privileges to resume immediately rather than waiting out the revocation period.
How does the ignition interlock device work in Minnesota?
An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer installed in your vehicle that requires you to blow into it before starting the engine. If your breath alcohol concentration is above the preset limit (typically 0.02%), the car won’t start. In Minnesota, the device also requires rolling retests while driving and includes a camera and GPS to confirm the identity of the driver and location of use. Data from the device is regularly reported to the Department of Public Safety to ensure compliance with MN ignition interlock rules.
What happens if I tamper with the ignition interlock device?
Tampering with your MN ignition interlock device is a serious violation. This includes attempting to bypass the breath test, disconnecting the device, or using another person to provide a sample. Tampering can result in removal from the program, longer revocation periods, and potential criminal charges. If you’ve been accused of tampering, contact an attorney immediately to protect your driving privileges.
Can I drive a company vehicle if I’m in the ignition interlock program?
Possibly. Participants in the MN ignition interlock program may be eligible for a work vehicle exemption that allows them to drive a company-owned vehicle during work hours without the device installed. This exemption does not apply to vehicles the participant owns or uses outside of work. Employers must sign off on the exemption, and it must be approved by the Department of Public Safety.
