If you fail an interlock breath test, you are likely to feel stressed and confused, especially if you’re new to having an ignition interlock device (IID) installed in your vehicle. Many Colorado Springs drivers who are required to use these devices have questions about what happens next and how to stay compliant with their restricted license requirements.

At Pitstop Interlock, we understand that navigating the aftermath of a DUI conviction can be challenging. That’s why we’ve created this resource to walk you through exactly what happens if you fail an interlock breath test and what steps you should take to maintain compliance.

Understanding Why You Might Fail an Interlock Breath Test

There are several reasons why you might fail an interlock breath test, and not all of them involve consuming alcohol.

Common causes of interlock breath test failures include:

• Recent alcohol consumption: The most obvious reason for failing a test is having alcohol in your system.
• Certain foods and products: Some products contain trace amounts of alcohol that can trigger a positive reading, including mouthwash, certain medications, and fermented foods.
• Environmental factors: Exposure to chemicals like cleaning products or hand sanitizers can cause false readings.

When driving around Colorado Springs, especially after visiting popular dining establishments along Powers Boulevard or downtown, be mindful of what you’ve consumed that might contain alcohol—even non-alcoholic beers can sometimes trigger a positive reading.

Immediate Steps to Take When You Fail an Interlock Breath Test

If you fail an interlock breath test, here’s what you should do:

• Wait and retest: Your device will typically prompt you to take another test after a short waiting period (usually 15-30 minutes).
• Document everything: Note the time, what you recently ate or drank, and any medications you’ve taken.
• Contact your provider: Pitstop Interlock can help explain what happened and advise you on the next steps.

Remember that Colorado’s mountain climate can affect how your body processes alcohol. The higher altitude in the Pikes Peak region means alcohol can affect you more strongly than at sea level.

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Understanding the Consequences of Failed Breath Tests

When you fail an interlock breath test, different consequences can follow depending on the circumstances.

Immediate Consequences

• Initial vs. rolling retest: If you fail an initial test, your car won’t start. If you fail a rolling retest, your device will record the violation and may trigger your horn or lights until you stop.
• Lockout periods: After multiple failed attempts, your device may enter a temporary lockout period. For drivers in Colorado Springs during winter months, finding yourself locked out on a cold morning can be especially inconvenient.

Notification Requirements

In Colorado, reporting requirements for failed tests are strict:

• Colorado DMV notification: Failed tests are recorded and reported during your regular maintenance appointments.
• Court and probation reporting: If you’re on probation, your probation officer may be notified of failed tests.

Compliance Limits

• Failure definition: In Colorado, a BAC reading of .025% or higher is considered a failed test.
• Monthly failure limit: Colorado typically allows no more than two failed startup tests with a BAC of .025% to .049% within a monthly monitoring period.
• Serious violations: Any test result of .05% or higher is considered a serious violation, as are three or more failures in a monitoring period.

Long-Term Impact on License Restoration

If you fail an interlock breath test, here’s how it might affect your journey toward regaining your unrestricted license:

• Extension of interlock requirements: Multiple violations can extend the period you’re required to have an interlock device installed.
• Revocation of restricted license: In severe cases or with repeated violations, the Colorado DMV can revoke your restricted license entirely.
• Clean record requirements: To successfully complete the interlock program in Colorado, you generally need several consecutive months without violations.

Further Reading: What Happens if You Get Caught Driving Without an Interlock in Colorado?

How to Prevent Future Failed Tests

Prevention is always better than dealing with the consequences of a failed test:

• Maintain complete sobriety: The surest way to avoid failures is to abstain from alcohol entirely while on the interlock program.
• Wait sufficient time after drinking: If you do consume alcohol, wait at least 12-24 hours before attempting to drive. Colorado Springs’ high altitude can cause alcohol to remain in your system longer than expected.
• Avoid alcohol-containing products: Be cautious with mouthwashes, certain foods, and medications that might contain alcohol.
• bbbbbbbbbKeep up with your scheduled maintenance appointments at Pitstop Interlock’s Colorado Springs locations.

Common Misconceptions About Interlock Breath Test Failures

• “One failure will get my license revoked”: A single failure typically won’t result in license revocation. Colorado’s program allows for a certain number of failures before serious consequences result.
• “I can trick the device.”: Modern interlock devices have sophisticated anti-circumvention features. Attempting to trick the device can result in severe penalties.
• “The device won’t know if someone else blows for me.”: Many devices now include cameras that record who is providing the breath sample.
• “I can disconnect the device when it fails.”: Tampering with or disconnecting the device is recorded and reported, resulting in violations.

Related: What Are the Consequences of Tampering with an Interlock Device in Colorado?

Dealing with a False Positive

Sometimes you can fail an interlock breath test even when you haven’t been drinking:

• Retest after waiting: If you get an unexpected positive result, wait 15-30 minutes and test again.
• Keep a log: Document everything you eat, drink, and any products you use that might contain alcohol.
• Discuss at your service appointment: When you visit Pitstop Interlock for regular maintenance, discuss any unexpected failures with our technicians.

Local Colorado Springs environmental factors like the dry climate can sometimes affect how your device functions. During the dry winter months, static electricity can occasionally interfere with electronic devices, including interlocks.

Why Choose Pitstop Interlock for Your Interlock Device Needs

When selecting an ignition interlock provider in Colorado Springs, you deserve a partner who makes the process as simple and stress-free as possible. Here’s why Pitstop Interlock stands above the competition:

• Official DMV approval: As a fully approved provider with the Colorado DMV, we ensure all our procedures and documentation comply with state requirements, giving you confidence that your installation meets all legal standards.
• Convenient local access: With multiple interlock service locations throughout Colorado Springs, you’ll always have a nearby option for installation, maintenance, and support—saving you valuable time and travel hassle.
• Superior device technology: Our state-of-the-art interlock devices feature fast warm-up times and user-friendly interfaces, which are particularly valuable during Colorado’s cold winter mornings.
• Transparent, all-inclusive pricing: We provide clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees or charges throughout your interlock program—from installation through maintenance to final removal.
• Complete compliance support: Our team handles all necessary documentation and reporting requirements, helping you navigate the complex administrative process of regaining your driving privileges.
• Compassionate, judgment-free service: We understand that everyone makes mistakes. Our team provides respectful, dignified service focused on helping you move forward, not dwelling on the past.
• Colorado Springs expertise: Our local team understands the unique challenges of the Pikes Peak region—from altitude effects on testing to extreme temperature variations that can impact device performance.

Conclusion: Staying on Track After You Fail an Interlock Breath Test

If you fail an interlock breath test, it doesn’t have to derail your progress toward regaining your unrestricted driving privileges. By understanding what happens, taking immediate appropriate action, and preventing future failures, you can successfully navigate this challenge.

For Colorado Springs drivers dealing with interlock requirements, Pitstop Interlock offers the services, support, technology, and understanding you need to complete your program successfully. Our team is familiar with local roads, regulations, and requirements, making us uniquely positioned to support your journey.

Don’t let a failed breath test discourage you. With the right approach and support, you can address the issue, prevent future failures, and stay on track toward regaining your full driving freedom.
Contact us today to get started.