In Oklahoma, if you’re convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) you’ll have to pay fines and spend time in jail. Your license is also suspended for a period, though a court may restore some of your driving privileges by allowing you to apply for a restricted driver’s license. But as part of this restricted driver’s license, you must have ignition interlock devices (IIDs) installed on all your vehicles.
IIDs effectively lock your car from starting unless you blow into the device. The device will only allow you to start the engine if it detects that your breath alcohol content is below the legal limit. A court might order you to use IID-equipped cars for up to two years.
The requirement to drive only IID-equipped vehicles might feel restrictive for some. But if you think you can bypass the restriction, know that Oklahoma has penalties for those who defy the restriction.
Oklahoma’s laws on IID restrictions
The state has laws on how IID-equipped vehicles should be used, and why drivers with restricted licenses can only use automobiles with the devices. Specifically, the laws state:
- No lending of non-IID vehicles: The state prohibits persons who don’t have IIDs on their vehicles from lending their automobiles to drivers with restricted licenses.
- No interfering with IIDs: It’s illegal for anyone to interfere or tamper with the functions of an IID. Similarly, it’s illegal to intentionally fail to return an IID when it’s no longer required.
- Restricted drivers can’t drive vehicles without IIDs: Per law, motorists with restricted licenses can’t operate a motor vehicle without an IID unless it’s an employer-owned automobile.
A court may charge anyone who breaks these IID rules. In addition, the IID manufacturer can report to the state Board of Tests for Alcohol and Drug Influence any violations committed by the driver for each IID device installed.
Penalties for breaking the law
A violation of the above laws is a misdemeanor by state law. On conviction, you could face a maximum fine of $500 and jail time of up to six months.
Having a restricted driver’s license which limits you to driving IID-equipped vehicles is punishment enough, but trying to circumvent the rules can lead to more trouble. Keep these rules in mind, or risk facing additional criminal charges.