If you’ve been convicted of a DUI in Colorado, you may have questions about an ignition interlock device’s early removal from your vehicle. The ignition interlock device was designed to block you from driving under the influence by requiring you to provide a breath sample with a blood alcohol content (BAC) below a certain threshold before your car starts. While an ignition interlock device (IID) is a necessary consequence of a DUI conviction, many drivers wonder if there’s a way to have the device removed early.
Understanding the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Requirement in Colorado
In Colorado, the installation of an IID is a requirement when you have been convicted of a DUI or DUI per se offense. The length of time you’ll need to have the device installed in your vehicle depends on various factors, including your BAC level at the time of the offense, your driving history, and whether you’re a first-time or repeat offender.
For first-time DUI offenders with a BAC below 0.15%, the standard IID requirement is eight months. However, there is a provision that allows for early removal of the device after just four months of successful use, provided certain criteria are met.
Eligibility for Early Interlock Removal in Colorado
To be eligible for early removal of your IID in Colorado, you must meet the following criteria:
First-Time DUI Offender
You must be a first-time DUI or DUI per se offender. If you have any prior DUI convictions or are considered a “persistent drunk driver,” you will not be eligible for early removal and must keep the IID installed for at least two years.
BAC Below 0.15%
Your blood alcohol content (BAC) at the time of the DUI offense must have been below 0.15%. If your BAC was 0.15% or higher, you are not eligible for ignition interlock device early removal.
21 Years of Age or Older
You must have been at least 21 years old at the time of the DUI offense. Underage DUI offenders are not eligible for ignition interlock device early removal.
Colorado Residency
You must be a resident of the state of Colorado to qualify for early IID removal.
Minimum of 4 Months of Compliance
You must have successfully used the IID for a minimum of 4 consecutive months (120 days) without any violations, such as failed breath tests, tampering, or circumvention.
The Process for Ignition Interlock Device Early Removal in Colorado
If you meet the eligibility requirements, here’s the step-by-step process to get your IID removed early in Colorado:
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Start by contacting the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Interlock Department at 303-205-5613 to confirm that you qualify for early IID removal. They can provide you with the exact date on which your 4-month compliance period began.
Step 2: Maintain Flawless IID Compliance
For the next four months (120 days), you must use your IID without any issues. This process means no failed breath tests, tampering, or circumvention attempts. The IID provider will be submitting monthly reports to the DMV, so you must maintain perfect compliance during this period.
Step 3: Request a Compliance Letter from the IID Provider
Once you have successfully used the IID for four months without incident, contact the company that installed your ignition interlock device and request a “letter of compliance” or “4PASS letter.” This compliance letter confirms that you have met the requirements for early removal.
Step 4: Submit the Compliance Letter to the DMV
After obtaining the compliance letter, submit it to the Colorado DMV. The DMV will review your records and, if everything is in order, will mail you a letter confirming that you can have your IID removed.
Step 5: Schedule IID Removal
With the DMV’s removal letter in hand, you can then schedule an appointment with the IID provider to have the device physically removed from your vehicle. Only the company that installed the device can remove it.
Step 6: Obtain a Full Reinstatement of Your Driving Privileges
After the successful ignition interlock device early removal process, you’ll need to visit the DMV to reinstate your driving privileges. Bring the DMV’s removal letter with you to the appointment.
Consequences of Failing to Comply with IID Requirements
It’s important to understand that if you fail to comply with the IID requirements, you may face additional consequences from the Colorado DMV. Some of these consequences include:
Excess Breath Alcohol Content
Suppose your IID reports show that the device halted or cancelled the normal operation of your vehicle in three or more months within a 12-month period due to a BAC of 0.025% or greater. In that case, your IID requirement may be extended by up to an additional year.
Circumvention or Tampering
If there is evidence that you have circumvented or tampered with the IID, your driving privileges may be revoked by the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles. This evidence can result in a one-year revocation or the remaining time on your original IID requirement, whichever is longer.
Navigating the Ignition Interlock Device Early Removal Process with PitStop Interlock
While the process for early IID removal in Colorado may seem straightforward, it can be complex and daunting for many drivers. That’s where PitStop Interlock comes in. As the leader in ignition interlock device installations in the Colorado Springs area, we have extensive experience helping drivers navigate the early removal of an IID.
Our technicians will guide you through every step, ensuring that you understand the requirements, maintain perfect compliance, and submit the necessary documentation to the DMV. We’ll also work closely with you to schedule the timely removal of your IID once you’ve met the criteria.
By choosing PitStop Interlock, you can rest assured that you’re working with a trusted, local provider who understands the nuances of the Colorado IID program. We’re committed to providing personalized service and empowering you with the knowledge you need to get your interlock device removed as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the interlock device need to be installed in Colorado?
The standard IID requirement for a first-time DUI offender in Colorado is 9 months. However, if certain criteria are met, the device can be removed by the original installation company after just 4 months of successful use.
What are the consequences of failing to comply with the IID requirements?
Failing to comply with the IID requirements can result in serious consequences, such as an extension of the IID requirement by up to an additional year or the revocation of your driving privileges.
Can I remove the IID myself, or do I need to go through the installation company?
You cannot remove the IID yourself. You must go through the company that initially installed the device to have it physically removed from your vehicle.
Do I need to keep my SR22 insurance after the IID removal?
The requirement to maintain SR22 insurance after a DUI conviction can vary depending on the specifics of your case. It’s best to consult with an attorney to determine if you can cancel your SR22 policy once the IID is removed.
How can PitStop Interlock help me with the early removal process?
PitStop Interlock has extensive experience helping drivers in the Colorado Springs area navigate the early IID removal process. Our team of experts will guide you through every step, ensuring you meet the requirements and submit the necessary documentation to the DMV.
Conclusion
If you’ve been required to install an ignition interlock device in Colorado due to a DUI conviction, the prospect of having it removed early can be a significant relief. By following the proper steps, you can potentially get your IID removed up to 5 months earlier than the standard 9-month requirement.
At PitStop Interlock, we’re committed to helping drivers in the Colorado Springs area through this process. Our knowledgeable team will provide you with the guidance and support you need to ensure a smooth and successful ignition interlock device early removal experience. Contact PitStop Interlock today to learn more about how we can assist you in regaining your driving freedom.