Ignition interlock timelines can feel overwhelming when you’re facing a DUI conviction in Colorado. Whether this is your first offense or you’ve been down this road before, everyone deserves clear information and a straightforward path forward during this challenging time.
At Pitstop Interlock, we’ve helped thousands of Colorado Springs residents successfully navigate every step of the interlock process with dignity and respect. Our team focuses on making your experience as stress-free as possible, offering multiple convenient locations throughout the city and the compassionate, judgment-free support you need during this temporary chapter in your life.
Phase 1: Preparing for Your Interlock Installation
Once you’ve received your court order or DMV notice requiring an interlock device, you’ll need to prepare for installation. First, you’ll need to choose a state-approved interlock provider. As a Colorado Springs company with multiple locations throughout the city, Pitstop Interlock makes this convenient regardless of whether you live near Garden of the Gods, down in Fountain, or up in Monument.
Before your installation appointment with us, gather all necessary documentation, like:
- Your court order or DMV notice requiring the interlock
- Your temporary driving permit (if applicable)
- Valid identification
- Vehicle registration
- Proof of insurance
You’ll also want to prepare your vehicle as a part of your ignition interlock timeline. Make sure your car battery is in good working condition, as the interlock device draws power from it. If your battery is more than 4 years old, consider replacing it before installation. There’s nothing worse than dealing with both the interlock and battery issues when you’re trying to get to work.
Phase 2: The Installation Process – What to Expect
Phase two of your ignition interlock timeline has begun, and Installation day has arrived. The installation process should take between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. When you arrive at our Colorado Springs service center, our technicians will walk you through the paperwork first. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. We’d much rather you understand everything up front than be confused later.
During installation, our technicians will:
- Mount the handheld device on your dashboard in a convenient location
- Connect the device to your vehicle’s ignition system
- Calibrate the device to ensure accurate readings
- Test the system multiple times to confirm proper operation
Once installation is complete, you’ll receive comprehensive training on how to use your interlock device properly, including:
- How to provide a proper breath sample
- Understanding the various lights and sounds on the device
- What to do if you receive a lockout or warning
- How to handle regular maintenance appointments
The technician will have you practice providing samples until you’re comfortable with the process to ensure compliance out on the road.
Related: Can Interlock Installation Damage My Car? What Colorado Springs Drivers Need to Know
Phase 3: Daily Life with Your Interlock Device
Phase three of your ignition interlock timeline requires some adjustment, but don’t worry. Thousands of Colorado Springs residents have adapted to this phase successfully. With a little practice, using your interlock will become as routine as buckling up.
Your daily routine will now include:
- Starting your vehicle: Before your engine will start, you’ll need to provide a breath sample that registers below the preset limit (typically 0.025% in Colorado).
- Rolling retests: While driving, the device will periodically request additional breath samples. Don’t panic, you’ll have time to safely pull over if needed.
- Keeping records: It’s smart to keep a log of your interlock use, particularly if you experience any unusual readings or technical issues.
The device records various types of events, including:
- Successful starts and retests
- Failed tests (BAC above the limit)
- Missed retests
- Any attempts to tamper with the device
Remember that all this information gets reported to the Colorado DMV. Like the traffic cameras at Powers and Dublin, your interlock doesn’t miss much. Consistent violations could result in an extension of your ignition interlock timeline or other penalties.
Phase 4: Regular Maintenance Appointments
Your relationship with your interlock provider doesn’t end after installation. Regular maintenance appointments are a required part of your ignition interlock timeline.
During these appointments at our Colorado Springs service centers, technicians will:
- Download the data recorded by your device
- Calibrate the device to ensure continued accuracy
- Inspect for any signs of tampering or circumvention
- Address any technical issues or concerns
These maintenance visits are not optional. Skipping them can result in your device entering lockout mode, which would prevent you from starting your vehicle. At Pitstop Interlock, we offer flexible scheduling options, including online booking, and we’ll send you reminders as your appointment date approaches to make maintenance easy.
Phase 5: Handling Potential Issues and Violations
Even with perfect intentions, you might encounter challenges with your interlock device. Common issues include:
- False positives: Certain foods, medications, or products like mouthwash can sometimes trigger a false positive. To avoid this, wait at least 15 minutes after eating, drinking, or using oral products before providing a breath sample.
- Battery drain: Interlock devices draw power from your vehicle’s battery even when the car is off. Consider using a battery tender if your vehicle will be sitting unused for extended periods.
- Lockouts: If you receive too many failed tests, your device may enter a temporary lockout mode. In severe cases, you might need a service visit to reset the device.
If you accumulate too many violations, the Colorado DMV may extend your ignition interlock timeline. Specifically, if your interlock device registers excessive BAC readings (0.025% or higher) in three or more months during any twelve-month period, your interlock requirement can be extended by up to an additional year.
Read Also: Multiple DUI Convictions in Colorado: Extended Interlock Requirements Explained
Phase 6: The Path to Early Removal (When Possible)
For some drivers, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel sooner than expected. If you’re serving a typical eight-month interlock requirement, you might be eligible for early removal after just four months.
To qualify for early removal, you must demonstrate:
- Four consecutive months of successful driving with the interlock
- No interruptions or prevented starts due to excessive BAC
- No evidence of tampering or circumvention
- No other grounds for extending the restriction
The Colorado DMV will notify you by mail if you qualify for early removal. If you believe you qualify but haven’t received notification, you can request a hearing by contacting the DMV Hearings Division.
Phase 7: Completing Your Requirement and Device Removal
The final day of your ignition interlock timeline has finally arrived: the completion of your interlock requirement. Whether you served the minimum time or faced extensions, reaching this milestone deserves recognition.
Before your device can be removed, you’ll need:
- Confirmation from the Colorado DMV that you’ve completed your interlock requirement
- To schedule a removal appointment with your interlock provider
- To settle any outstanding balances with the DMV
The removal process itself is straightforward and typically takes less than an hour. After removal, you’ll need to return to the DMV to complete any final requirements for unrestricted license reinstatement, like paying reinstatement fees, submitting proof of completed alcohol education, and providing proof of insurance.
Complete Your Ignition Interlock Timeline with Pitstop Interlock
Navigating your ignition interlock timeline is challenging enough without worrying about the quality of your device or support. At Pitstop Interlock, we understand the unique needs of Colorado Springs drivers dealing with interlock requirements. Whether you’re looking at your first installation or counting down to removal day, our team at Pitstop Interlock is committed to making your interlock experience as straightforward as possible.
When you’re ready to get back on the road legally and responsibly, get in touch with Pitstop Interlock and schedule your installation appointment. Our team is ready to answer your interlock ignition questions and help you navigate each step of your timeline, from that first installation to the final removal day.