Attempting to Start Vehicle for Someone with Ignition Interlock in Virginia

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charges in Virginia carry several mandatory penalties, including the required installation of an Ignition Interlock.

Attempting to Start Vehicle for Someone with Ignition Interlock in Virginia is a CRIME

Ignition Interlock in Virginia

An Ignition Interlock is a device that is connected to the ignition of a vehicle that prevents the vehicle from starting if it detects alcohol. The Ignition Interlock requires the user to blow into the device before starting the car and at random intervals while the car is being operated. If the Ignition Interlock detects alcohol, the car will not start. If the driver fails to take a re-test while operating the vehicle or the Interlock detects alcohol during a retest, the horn will sound and the lights will flash, requiring the driver to pull over and stop the vehicle. Va. Code §18.2-270.1(A).

When is Ignition Interlock Required in Virginia?

If a driver is convicted of a first offense DUI in Virginia by being under the influence of alcohol (Va. Code §18.2-266(ii)), driving with a Blood Alcohol Content at .08 or higher, (Va. Code §18.2-266(i)) or or Driving Under the Influence of Drugs and Alcohol combined (Va. Code §18.2-266(iv)), he or she will be prohibited from operating a vehicle without an Ignition Interlock. The Interlock must be installed in the vehicle for at least 12 months without any alcohol-related violations. Va. Code §18.2-270.1(B).

A driver convicted of a first offense DUI charge that was considered Driving Under the Influence of Drugs (Va. Code §18.2-266(iii)) or Driving with certain levels of specific drugs in his or her system (Va. Code §18.2-266(iv)) may be prohibited from operating a motor vehicle without an Ignition Interlock installed (as a condition of his or her restricted driving privileges). Va. Code §18.2-270.1(B).

A driver convicted of a second or subsequent offense DUI within 5 or 10 years, DUI Maiming (Va. Code §18.2-51.4), or as a condition of license restoration in Virginia is required to have an Ignition Interlock installed on every vehicle he or she owns or has registered in his or her name (as a condition of restricted driving privileges). Va. Code §18.2-270.1(B).

Penalty for Attempting to Start Vehicle for Someone with Ignition Interlock in Virginia

Attempting to Start a Vehicle for Someone with Ignition Interlock in Virginia (Va. Code §18.2-270.1(G)) is a crime. It is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punished with up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500.

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