Why does the ignition interlock device have a camera?
The camera will take a picture or a series of pictures during the initial breath test to start the car, during any rolling retests and during any violations. This allows DVS to verify who is using the device and prevent the participant from using someone else to provide the breath tests. Although the participant is responsible for all breath samples provided, the photos will allow DVS to review photos if necessary.
In extreme weather, can I start my car and let it run until the car warms up or cools down?
No. The device will ask for random rolling retests while the vehicle is running. Failure to provide a breath sample will be considered a skipped rolling retest.
Who should I contact if I am having problems with my ignition interlock device?
If you have a complaint or concern regarding the service you are receiving from a certified ignition interlock manufacturer or service center, please contact that provider directly and request to speak to a manager or supervisor in their central office. If after contacting the provider you are still not satisfied with their response, please email your concerns to DVS at
dvs.ii@state.mn.us. Please make sure to include your contact information including your name, driver’s license number, date of birth, current interlock manufacturer and a brief description of the issue.
Can the passenger blow into the device for the driver?
No, the driver of the vehicle should be the one providing all the breath tests.
What if I am on the Minnesota ignition interlock device program and I move to another state?
You can continue to have the ignition interlock device calibrated by an ignition interlock manufacturer in another state. The ignition interlock manufacturer must be certified by the state of Minnesota and set to Minnesota device standards. Monitoring reports should be sent to Minnesota in order to continue receiving credit in the program.
Can the interlock unit drain my battery or damage my vehicle?
No. Problems occur only if your vehicle has an existing electrical problem or if the vehicle’s battery has died. The device is connected to the wiring under the dash and under the hood. At the end of the program, this wiring is restored to its original condition.
Will the interlock shut off my engine or stop my vehicle?
No. The ignition interlock device will not shut off your engine if you fail a breath test. It is designed to prevent the car from starting without a passing breath test. If you fail a test while driving, the device records a violation but will not stop your car.
What if I need more training on how to use and blow into the device?
Contact your service center for additional training.
Can I switch vendors?
Yes. DVS allows participants to change manufacturers at any time. Check your service contract to determine if there are any early termination fees.
What if the ignition interlock device is destroyed or stolen?
In the event the device is either destroyed in a car crash or stolen, DVS will allow the participant seven days to reinstall the device. The participant should notify DVS of the situation as soon as possible.
If a participant has a program violation, how do I obtain copies of monitoring reports?
You must work directly with the manufacturer to obtain copies of any monitoring reports.
How are the 30 days for Cancel and Deny – Inimical to Public Safety (CANC-IPS) participants calculated?
The 30 breath tests are calculated beginning with the date of their enrollment. It is based on a continuous countback, a rolling 30 day period, not one specific date since each month does not contain 30 days (some include more or less than 30 days).
The IIDP guidelines state that individuals who are CANC-IPS must demonstrate abstinence by regular and consistent use of the ignition interlock device. Providing 30 initial breath tests in 2-3 days does not demonstrate regular and consistent use.
DVS does not require that the vehicle is driven each day. The participant must provide consistent initial tests, which can be performed each day without driving the vehicle.
Who do I contact regarding special registration plates?
Contact the Plate Impound Unit at 651-297-5034.
How can I find out if I qualify for a limited license instead of enrolling in IIDP?
Call 651-296-2948 or 651-296-2025 to determine eligibility.
Where can I pay my reinstatement fee or meet with a Driver Evaluator?
The DVS location link will identify all offices that collect reinstatement fees and where DVS Driver Evaluators can be found. Go to “Driver and Vehicle Services Information” on the home page at
drive.mn.gov and click on “Find Office Locations.”
Can I pay my reinstatement fee online via e-services?
Yes, reinstatement fees can be paid online. Go to “Driver’s Services” on the home page at drive.mn.gov and click on "Pay Reinstatement Fees."
When does my time in Ignition Interlock start?
The participant's time in the IIDP will start after DVS has received all the necessary enrollment forms, the customer has completed all outstanding requirements, the IIDP device is installed, and once DVS enrolls the participant into the program. DVS will send the customer a Notice of Conditional Reinstatement advising them they are enrolled or the participant may check their status online.
How can I check my driver’s license status online?
Go to “Driver’s Services” on the home page at
drive.mn.gov and click on “More Driver Services” to check your status.
Am I eligible to get off the program early for good behavior?
No. There is no reduction in the length of your enrollment for good behavior.
What if I am enrolled in the partial pay program?
You will be allowed to participate in the ignition interlock device program after you have complied with the requirements of the partial pay program and have paid your first installment. If you fail to make the second payment, you are no longer eligible to participate in the program.
What if I remove my device before the end of my program?
Removing the device before completing the program will result in revocation of your driver's license. If you decide to re-enroll in the program, you will get credit for the time you were previously on the program.
How can I become an installer of the ignition interlock device?
Please contact one of the certified manufacturers on the DVS website for more information.
How can I become a certified manufacturer in Minnesota?
Please send an email to dvs.ii@state.mn.us with your inquiry.
What are the different ways to lose my driving privileges?
Minnesota Rules lay out several levels a driver would lose their privileges:
- A suspension is a temporary withdrawal of driving privileges.
- A revocation is a complete withdrawal of driving privileges.
- A cancellation is a DVS withdrawal of driving privileges.
- A cancel and deny inimical to public safety is a DVS withdrawal of privileges due to alcohol/drug related actions.
- A disqualification is a DVS withdrawal of commercial driving privileges.
