How to Obtain a Washington Ignition Interlock License (IIL)

An ignition interlock license is available in Washington state for drivers who have suspended or revoked licenses due to an alcohol related DUI or Physical Control. The ignition interlock license may be used to drive vehicles with an ignition interlock, or in car breathalyzer, installed in the vehicle. You must submit an application to obtain an ignition interlock license in lieu of a suspended or revoked driver's license.

Things You'll Need

• Washington Ignition Interlock License Application

Instructions

1. Obtain proof of financial responsibility. This generally means obtaining a certificate of insurance, or SR-22.

2. Complete an Ignition Interlock Driver License Application. The IIL application may be found on the Washington State Department of Licensing website.

3. Send the Ignition Interlock License Application with the $100 application fee to Driver Records, Department of Licensing, PO Box 9048, Olympia, WA 98507-9048.

4. Pay all Ignition Interlock License fees and interlock device costs. They will be ongoing and include the cost of installing and leasing the interlock device as well as removing the in car breathalyzer device, continuing to maintain proof of financial responsibility, the IIL application fee and a monthly Interlock Device Revolving Account.

5. Apply for assistance to help pay the costs of an ignition interlock device by completing an Ignition Interlock Device Financial Worksheet if you are unable to afford it.

6. Wait to receive approval or denial of the IIL application by the Washington State Department of Licensing.

7. Maintain an ignition interlock device and an ignition interlock license for a length of time depending on the courts action. For a deferred judgment for an alcohol related offense, the length of time for the IIL is two years. For a DUI or Physical Control conviction, the time for the IIL license is one year for the first offense, five years for the second offense and ten years for subsequent offenses.

Tips & Warnings

• You cannot drive a commercial vehicle while you have an Ignition Interlock License.

References

• Washington State Department of Licensing: Ignition Interlock Driver License (IIL)