In North Carolina, people are driving more and further each week, and unfortunately, continuing to drive under the influence, especially during the summer. Summer holidays bring with them spikes in the number of arrests. Also, COVID-19 has led to an even higher increase in alcohol consumption due to months of isolation. If you find yourself in a situation where you’ve been arrested for driving while intoxicated, take a deep breath, and keep reading.
What happens now?
If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, the state of North Carolina will require you to install an ignition interlock device in your car which will allow you to get back on the road. Here are the seven steps you will need to take in order to get one installed.
Step 1
Obtain a DL-123 from your auto insurance company or agent. These forms are valid for 30 days, so wait until you are ready to request interlock driving privileges before you request one.
Step 2
Obtain an alcohol assessment at an approved provider. The cost is $100. Service can be located on the https://www.ncdhhs.gov/ website.
Step 3
Make an appointment to have your ignition interlock installed by calling Monitech of North Carolina at 800-521-4246. Ask about current discounts and offers.
Step 4
If you work non-standard hours, obtain a letter from your employer stating when you need to be at work.
Step 5
Fill out an application for Interlock Limited Driving Privilege. This form can be located on the https://www.nccourts.gov/ website.
Step 6
Take these documents to the Clerk of Court in the county where you were originally charged. Pay any fees or fines and you will be issued your limited driving privilege.
Step 7
Take your copy of the privilege and your vehicle to a local DMV. They will verify that your interlock is installed.
How does an ignition interlock work?
A Monitech Ignition Interlock (IID) device is installed in your vehicle and prevents the driver from starting the vehicle if alcohol is detected. It’s sort of like the breathalyzer law enforcement uses but it is installed in your vehicle.
The Monitech IID takes deep breath samples into the fuel cell chamber. The presence of alcohol in the sensor chamber causes the fuel cell to produce an increased electric current. This current is measured and translated into an equivalent blood alcohol concentration (BrAC).
Your jurisdiction’s monitoring authority determines the BrAC limit that is programmed into the Monitech IID at installation. Pass a test and you can start your car and be on your way.
How do I get started?
Easy. Just call Monitech at 800-521-4246. One of our Customer Support Experts will be able to tell you the specific requirements for license recovery in North Carolina and set up an installation appointment at one of our Authorized Service Locations. At Monitech our primary goal is to help you successfully complete your interlock program safely and quickly.
For more information about a Monitech Ignition Interlock Device, call the Customer Support Center at 800-521-4246 or visit monitechnc.com.
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