Do Drugged Driving Convictions Have the Same IID Requirements as Alcohol DUIs?

Drugged driving is becoming a threat on American roads and many states now require drivers convicted of drug DUIs to install an IID.

A recent Reddit story about a drug DUI caught our eye:

“I was convicted of my first DUI a year and a half ago and with my suspension being up I'm looking into what kind of requirements there will be as far as reinstating my license. I can't find any information about interlock requirements for drug DUI's… I'm guessing even though I don't drink, I'm not off the hook since I doubt my case details make it to the DMV and my conviction looks the same as an alcohol DUI would. Anyone had experience they can share?”

If you're pulled over for drug-related impairment, you may feel exactly as this person does. What’s the penalty for driving under the influence of drugs? Will you be treated differently than someone convicted of an alcohol DUI? Will you be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID)?

Let’s dive in and get some answers.

Stoned Driving is on the Rise

Drugged driving might not make headlines as often as drunk driving, but it's rapidly becoming just as serious a threat on American roads. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, nearly 43,000 people died in car crashes in 2021. Nearly 1 in 5 of those incidents involved drivers impaired by two or more drugs. Some data attributes this to younger generations opting for cannabis over alcohol. The rise in legalized cannabis also raises concerns about the relationship between marijuana and driving, especially in states where recreational use is permitted.

DUI Charges: Alcohol vs. Drug Offenses

Legally, drug and alcohol DUIs have key differences. Alcohol impairment is measured through blood alcohol tests. Drivers who have a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher can be charged with alcohol DUI.

When comparing DUI vs DUID (Driving Under the Influence of Drugs), the core difference lies in how impairment is determined and measured. For drug-related DUIs, impairment isn't as easy to measure.

Drugged driving laws can vary widely by state, which can add to the confusion when drivers face charges for non-alcohol-related impairment since there isn’t a clear legal threshold. In most cases, police use field sobriety tests or blood tests to show you're impaired. A Drug Recognition Expert may be called in to evaluate you in the field.

Despite these differences, similar penalties apply to alcohol and drug-related cases.

Are IIDs Required for Drug DUI Offenses?

Many states require drivers convicted of drug DUIs to install an interlock even if alcohol isn’t involved. It might seem confusing at first because an IID is associated with alcohol and measures blood alcohol concentration.

Courts look at it differently. They focus on safety and reducing the risk of impaired driving, regardless of the substance involved. So, even if your DUI involved marijuana or another drug, the court might still require a breathalyzer installation to help you form safer driving habits. For example, a marijuana DUI conviction may still result in the same ignition interlock requirements as an alcohol-related offense.

Do Interlocks Detect Drugs or Only Alcohol?

Ignition interlock devices only detect alcohol, not marijuana or any other drugs. The car breathalyzer measures alcohol on your breath and stops your vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected. The IID device doesn't directly test for marijuana or other drugs.

Even though the ignition interlock doesn't detect drugs, courts still use it as a preventive measure. This method helps reinforce safe driving behavior after any driving under the influence of a controlled substance conviction.

Why Courts Mandate IIDs for Drug DUI Offenses

If the IID doesn't detect drugs, why require one after a drug DUI? The answer is that courts see the IID as part of a broader strategy to encourage safe, responsible driving. The device reinforces accountability. Simply put, it helps you show the court you're committed to safer driving choices, no matter what led to your initial DUI charge.

Misconceptions About IIDs and Drug DUIs

There's a common misconception that if you aren’t drinking, an IID isn't needed. It’s easy to understand why people think this way, but interlock mandates aren't just about detecting substances. They help encourage better driving behaviors to prevent future DUIs.

“I Didn’t Drink. Why Would I Need One?”

Many drivers facing drug DUIs wonder why a car breathalyzer applies to their situation. Courts focus on the bigger picture of impaired driving prevention. They consider interlocks a proven method to help reduce repeat offenses. Essentially, an IID shows the court you're working toward safer habits behind the wheel.

“Does Every Drug DUI Conviction Require an Ignition Interlock?”

Many drivers ask us if every drug DUI requires an IID. While not every misdemeanor case mandates one, it's common in felony or repeat offenses or where significant impairment is involved. Drivers also frequently ask if driving high is legally the same as driving drunk. Legally, yes, both count as impaired driving, carrying similar penalties and IID requirements.

Support for Drug or Alcohol DUI Cases

When you're dealing with DUID penalties like the Reddit poster we referenced above, it can be hard to find clear answers. At Intoxalock, our specialists work directly with you, walking you through state-specific requirements, installation procedures, and deadlines. Whether your DUI involved marijuana or alcohol, we provide the same calm, supportive guidance to get you back on the road responsibly.

Need an IID after a drug DUI? Schedule your installation today. Intoxalock’s State Specialists are ready to help with your next steps.