Ignition Interlock Device Random Retests: What to Expect and How to Prepare
If you're using an ignition interlock device (IID), you’ve likely encountered random retests during your drive. A random retest, sometimes referred to as a rolling retest, occurs when your IID prompts you to provide a breath sample while your vehicle is running to ensure you’re driving sober. These ignition interlock device retests happen at unexpected times to confirm that you haven’t consumed alcohol after starting the car. But why are these IID retests required, and is there any way to avoid them? Let’s walk you through it.
Why Do Ignition Interlocks Require Random Retests?
States require interlock random retests after the vehicle has started to ensure drivers remain sober throughout their trip. IID retests help prevent two situations:
- Drinking while driving: Interlock random retests ensure you aren’t consuming alcohol after you’ve started driving.
- Circumventing the system: Random breath tests prevent drivers from asking someone else to blow into the IID device to start the vehicle if they’ve been drinking.
How Often Do IID Retests Occur?
An ignition interlock device random retest can occur at any time during your drive and are "randomized" to ensure fairness, so there’s no set frequency—you’ll need to be prepared at all times.
How Do Interlock Random Retests Work?
When you’re driving, your IID will beep to alert you that a retest is required. You won’t need to stop immediately—state regulations differ but generally allow you anywhere from 3 to 15 minutes to provide your breath sample. This gives you plenty of time to find a safe place to pull over if you prefer not to take the breath test while driving.
Here's the process:
- Alert: Your ignition interlock device will beep, indicating it’s time for a random retest.
- Time to respond: Depending on your state, you’ll have between 3 and 15 minutes to provide your breath sample. Although many Intoxalock customers feel comfortable taking their retest while driving, you are encouraged to pull over so you can safely take your test. Make sure you know how long your state allows you to provide your sample after the device alerts.
- Blow into the device: You’ll provide your breath sample using the same breath pattern and method you used when starting the vehicle. It’s quick and easy, especially with Intoxalock’s user-friendly interface.
What Happens If You Miss or Fail an IID Random Retest?
Ignition interlock devices are designed to ensure you’re driving sober, so missing or failing a random retest can trigger some safety measures. NOTE: Your car will not turn off even if you fail or miss a random retest. Here's what you need to know:
- Random retest violation is recorded: If you miss or fail a random retest, your IID will log the results and report it to your monitoring agency.
- Your lights and/or horn may activate: Some states require the vehicle’s lights to flash and the horn to sound if a random retest is missed or failed. This alerts you to pull over and safely stop.
- Your car will not turn off: Even if you fail or miss a breath test, your Intoxalock IID cannot shut your car off. You can safely pull over and turn off the car manually.
What Else Should I Know About Ignition Interlock Retests?
Ignition interlock device random retests are an essential part of your ignition interlock experience, but they don’t need to be stressful. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
- Retests are announced: You’ll always know when an IID retest is required thanks to the beep notification, giving you time to respond safely.
- IID Retests are required: Car breathalyzer retests aren’t optional or a sign that you’ve done anything wrong. They’re part of every IID program across all states.
- Retests will NEVER turn off your vehicle: Your car will keep running even if you miss or fail a retest. The goal is your safety, and you’ll be prompted to pull over.
- Retests are easy: Intoxalock random retests are straightforward and designed to keep you focused on the road.
- Help is always available: If you ever feel uncomfortable with the IID retest process, additional training and support are just a call away.
If you're looking for a quick and easy way to brush up on the random retest process, watch our step-by-step guide to random retests. It's a great resource to help you feel prepared whenever a retest comes up during your drive.
Expert Interlock Assistance Whenever You Need It
When you have your IID installed, the Intoxalock technician will walk you through everything you need to know about ignition interlock device random retests. If you ever need a refresher, Intoxalock is here for you. Our representatives are available 24/7 to answer any questions and ensure you feel confident using your IID.
Ignition interlock devices are designed to make our roads safer, and random retests play a key role in that. With the right information and support, you can handle these tests easily and keep your focus on the road ahead.
For more information or support with your Intoxalock device, feel free to reach out to us at 833-623-0200.
