Ignition Interlock Device Requirements in California (2026 Guide)

In 2026, most California DUI convictions require installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) before driving privileges can be reinstated. The statewide IID program applies to DUI offenses occurring between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2032. IID installation periods range from 6 months to 4 years depending on prior offenses and whether the DUI involved injury.

What Is an Ignition Interlock Device in California?

An ignition interlock device (IID) is a breath-alcohol testing system installed in a vehicle that prevents the engine from starting if alcohol above a preset limit is detected.

Under:

Vehicle Code §23152 (DUI)
Vehicle Code §23153 (DUI causing injury)

IID installation is often required before the DMV will reinstate driving privileges.

Drivers must:

Provide a breath sample before starting the vehicle
Submit rolling retests while driving
Attend monthly calibration appointments
Maintain continuous compliance

Failure to comply can extend suspension or trigger probation violations.

When Is an IID Required After a DUI?

California’s statewide IID program applies to DUI offenses occurring between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2032.

IID installation commonly applies to:

First-time DUI offenders seeking restricted licenses
Repeat DUI convictions
DUI causing injury
Drivers seeking immediate reinstatement after suspension

Important DMV Clarification

The DMV states an IID is not mandatory for a drug-only DUI conviction. However, restricted license options may still be available depending on the case. Learn more about general DUI defense here: DUI Defense Overview

DMV Mandatory IID Periods (Repeat & Injury Cases)

According to California DMV guidelines, IID installation periods vary based on prior history:

Injury DUI (no prior DUIs within 10 years): 1 year
1 prior DUI: 1 year (non-injury) / 2 years (injury)
2 priors: 2 years (non-injury) / 3 years (injury)
3+ priors: 3 years (non-injury) / 3 years (injury)
1+ prior felony DUI: 3 years (non-injury) / 4 years (injury or vehicular manslaughter)

For first-offense, non-injury DUI cases, installation may allow immediate restricted driving rather than serving a full hard suspension.

How Long Must an IID Be Installed?

Typical installation periods:

First DUI: ~6 months
Second DUI: 1 year
Third DUI: 2 years
Felony DUI / Injury DUI: 2–4 years

The exact duration depends on both:

Court sentencing
DMV Administrative Per Se (APS) action

If you are facing suspension, understanding your DMV rights is critical: DMV Hearing After DUI

Before the DMV Issues an IID-Restricted License

To obtain an IID-restricted license, drivers generally must:

Clear any other suspensions or revocations
Install the IID and submit Verification of Installation (DL 920)
Provide DUI program proof — Proof of Enrollment (DL 107) or Notice of Completion (DL 101)
File an SR-22 insurance certificate
Pay DMV reissue and administrative fees

In some cases, drivers may apply for an IID-restricted license without serving a waiting period, provided DMV requirements are satisfied.

IID Installation Services in San Bernardino County

Drivers must use a California DMV-approved IID provider.

In San Bernardino County, installation centers operate throughout:

Rancho Cucamonga
Ontario
Victorville
San Bernardino

Common DMV-approved vendors include:

LifeSafer Ignition Interlock

Certified installation services available in Ontario, California, serving Inland Empire drivers.

Intoxalock Interlock Device

Multiple certified service centers throughout San Bernardino County, including Rancho Cucamonga and Victorville.

Choosing an Installer

The DMV advises drivers to use a California-certified IID installer licensed through the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA). Drivers should confirm installer licensing and reporting compliance.

Drivers are responsible for:

Installing the IID in every vehicle owned or operated
Monthly monitoring appointments
Compliance reporting
Removal at the end of the required term

Employer Vehicle Exemption (Important for Working Drivers)

If you hold an IID-restricted license, the DMV allows you to drive an employer’s vehicle during the scope of employment without an IID, provided:

You complete the Notice to Employers (DL 923) form
A copy is kept with you or in the employer’s vehicle

This exemption does not apply to vehicles owned by the driver.

What Does an IID Cost in San Bernardino County?

Typical costs include:

Installation: $70–$150
Monthly monitoring: $60–$100
Removal fee
Calibration/service charges

Over 6 months, total IID costs often exceed $1,000. Longer compliance periods significantly increase total expense.

Combined with:

Court fines
DUI education classes
Insurance premium increases

The financial impact of a DUI can be substantial. DUI Penalties in California

IID Requirements in Rancho Cucamonga, Victorville & San Bernardino Courts

DUI cases filed in:

Rancho Cucamonga
Victorville
Downtown San Bernardino

Often involve both:

Court-ordered IID terms
DMV administrative IID requirements

Even if a DUI charge is reduced in court, DMV IID obligations may still apply.

Working with a Rancho Cucamonga DUI attorney, Victorville DUI attorney, or San Bernardino DUI attorney familiar with local procedures can help coordinate court sentencing and DMV reinstatement strategy.

What Happens If You Violate IID Requirements?

Violations may include:

Missed rolling retests
Failed breath samples
Driving without the IID installed
Tampering or attempted circumvention

Violations are electronically reported to the DMV and may result in:

Extension of IID period
Additional suspension
Probation violations
Court sanctions

Even minor compliance issues can carry serious consequences.

Why the 10-Day DMV Deadline Still Matters

After a DUI arrest, drivers have 10 calendar days to request a DMV Administrative Per Se hearing.

If you do not request a hearing:

License suspension begins automatically
IID eligibility options may change
You lose the opportunity to challenge administrative evidence

Winning or modifying a DMV action can directly affect IID duration and reinstatement timing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ignition Interlock Devices

Is an IID required for a first DUI?

In most cases, yes — especially if you want restricted driving privileges.

Is IID required for a drug-only DUI?

No. The DMV does not mandate IID installation for drug-only DUI convictions.

Can I drive any vehicle?

Only vehicles equipped with an IID — unless operating an employer vehicle under the DL 923 exemption.

What happens if I fail a test?

The vehicle will not start. Repeated violations may extend IID duration.

Does the IID track GPS?

Standard IID devices measure alcohol concentration but do not include GPS tracking.

What These 2026 IID Laws Mean for Drivers

California’s extended IID program signals continued reliance on administrative enforcement and monitoring technology.

For drivers in San Bernardino County, this means:

Longer supervision periods
Increased monitoring
Higher compliance costs
Strong coordination between court and DMV systems

Early legal strategy can reduce long-term consequences and protect driving privileges.

DUI Defense in San Bernardino County

The Law Offices of Kirk Tarman & Associates represents clients facing:

DUI charges
DMV license suspensions
Ignition interlock requirements

Throughout:

With over 25 years of Southern California criminal defense experience, our office coordinates DMV hearings, court strategy, and license reinstatement planning from the start. If you have questions about IID requirements after a DUI arrest, contact our office to discuss your options.