Ignition Interlock Program Overview

Using New Techniques to Combat Drinking and Driving

Drinking and driving continues to cause death and injury on Newfoundland and Labrador's roads. Each year there are more than 700 drinking and driving convictions recorded in the province. An estimated 85 to 90 percent of convicted drivers are first-time offenders.

Newfoundland and Labrador now has a new technique to combat drinking and driving. As of August 1, 2003, individuals who are convicted of an impaired driving offence under the Criminal Code of Canada can apply to participate in an Ignition Interlock Program.

What is an Ignition Interlock Device?

An 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. The device is located inside the vehicle near the driver's seat, and is connected to the engine's ignition system.

How Does an Ignition Interlock Device Work?

Before starting the vehicle, the driver must blow into the device. If the recorded blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is above the pre-set limit, the vehicle will not start. Once the vehicle is started, the interlock device requires random breath samples at pre-set times. If a breath 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 (i.e., lights flashing, horn honking, etc.) until the ignition is turned off.

How Can I Apply for Installation of the Device?

After receiving approval of the courts, please complete and submit the Application for Ignition Interlock Program (PDF: 243 KB).

For installation, please call:

Guardian Interlock Systems
1-877-OK-TO-DRIVE — (1-877-658-6374)

How Does the Newfoundland and Labrador Ignition Interlock Program Work?

Newfoundland and Labrador has implemented a voluntary program. The installation of an ignition interlock device allows for the early reinstatement of a driver's licence after an impaired driving conviction. At a minimum, program participants will be required to have the ignition interlock device in their vehicle for the remainder of their suspension period. This time period may be extended upon review of their driving record. An ignition interlock restriction will be placed on their licence. When the restriction period is over, the participant must apply to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles to have the restriction removed.

Who Pays the Cost of an Ignition Interlock Device?

The applicant is responsible for all administrative, installation, maintenance, and removal costs for the device. Guardian Interlock Systems is the service provider for the Newfoundland and Labrador Ignition Interlock Program. They will provide the necessary information, including fee schedules, for the program. Guardian can be contacted at:

1-877-OK-TO-DRIVE — (1-877-658-6374)

Who Can Have the Device Installed?

Effective August 1, 2003, residents of Newfoundland and Labrador who are convicted of an Impaired Driving offence and are subsequently suspended may be eligible for early reinstatement by having an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle(s) and a restricted driver's licence issued.

The following criteria determines eligibility:

conviction of impaired driving or refusing a breathalyzer demand;
authorization by the court to use an ignition interlock device;
court ordered minimum mandatory prohibition period must be served;
have no other suspension in place and all outstanding fines have been paid;
completion of all other reinstatement requirements and conditions; and
the vehicle in which the interlock device is to be installed must have valid registration and

once installed, the ignition interlock device must be used by anyone who drives the vehicle, including family and friends.

What Can I Do if I Don't Want an Ignition Interlock Device?

This is not a mandatory program. Drivers who choose not to avail of the Ignition Interlock Program will serve all of their suspension period.

What are the Penalties for Not Complying With the Ignition InterlockProgram?

Persons enrolled in the program who are convicted of driving without an ignition interlock device, or for tampering with the device, will face fines under the Highway Traffic Act ranging from:

$200 — $20,000 for commercial vehicles
$200 — $1,000 for other motor vehicles

Ignition interlock violations for tampering or driving without a device will be reported to Motor Registration Division.

Program violations will affect the amount of time the restriction remains on the licence. Vehicle owners who knowingly allow a person with an ignition interlock restriction to drive their vehicle may also be convicted of an offence under the Highway Traffic Act.

How is the Interlock Restriction Removed?

Program participants must apply to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles to have the restriction removed from their licence. If the restriction period has been completed without any program violations (i.e., tampering/driving without/driver record), the ignition interlock restriction may be removed. The restriction will remain until an application for removal is approved. As long as the restriction remains on a driver's licence, the driver will only be allowed to drive vehicles that are equipped with an approved ignition interlock device, or be subject to penalties under the Highway Traffic Act.