ISS stands for "Ignition Interlock System" and it's a restriction that appears on your license when you've been convicted of a drunk driving offense
ISS is a court-ordered requirement, not something the DMV adds on its own. When you're convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), the court may require you to install an ignition interlock device in any vehicle you drive. The ISS notation on your license tells police officers, vehicle inspectors, and anyone checking your driving record that you're under this restriction.
The device itself is a breathalyzer connected to your car's ignition. Before the engine will start, you blow into the device. If it detects alcohol above a set limit (usually 0.02% blood alcohol content), the car won't start. Some devices also require rolling retests while you're driving, to prevent you from drinking after you've started the vehicle.
The length of time ISS appears on your license depends on your state and the specifics of your conviction. Some states require it for one year; others for three or more. You'll need to complete the full period without violations before the restriction can be removed.
Key Takeaways
- ISS on your license means a court has ordered you to use an ignition interlock device in any vehicle you operate.
- The device requires you to pass a breath test before your car will start, and some require additional tests while driving.
- ISS is a legal restriction tied to a DUI or DWI conviction, not a voluntary program.
- The restriction stays on your license for a court-ordered period, which varies by state and conviction details.
- Removing ISS requires completing the full restriction period without violations and requesting removal through your state's DMV.
How the ignition interlock device works
When you turn on your vehicle, you'll be prompted to blow into the device's mouthpiece. The device measures your breath alcohol content and sends a signal to your car's ignition system. If your BAC is below the set threshold, the engine starts normally. If it's above the limit, the ignition is disabled and you cannot start the vehicle.
Most devices also perform random rolling retests while you're driving. A tone or light alerts you that a retest is needed, and you have a set window (usually 5 to 15 minutes) to pull over safely and provide another breath sample. Failing a rolling retest is recorded and reported to the monitoring agency, and repeated failures can extend your ISS period or result in other penalties.
You're responsible for paying the installation fee and monthly monitoring costs, which typically range from $60 to $150 per month depending on your state and the device manufacturer. Some programs offer payment plans or reduced fees based on income.
What happens if you violate ISS restrictions
Violations include failing a breath test, tampering with the device, not maintaining it, or driving a vehicle without an interlock installed when one is required. Each violation is documented and reported to the court or monitoring authority.
Consequences for violations vary but commonly include fines, an extension of your ISS period, license suspension, or criminal charges. A single failed test may not result in when ready action, but a pattern of failures or tampering can lead to serious penalties. Some states allow a small number of failed tests before action is taken; others have a zero-tolerance approach.
If you're caught driving a vehicle without the required interlock device, you're driving with a suspended or restricted license, which is a separate criminal offense in most states.
How to remove ISS from your license
You cannot remove ISS before the court-ordered period ends. Once you've completed the full restriction period without violations, you must request removal through your state's DMV or the court that issued the order. Some states handle this automatically; others require you to file paperwork and pay a removal fee.
Contact your state's DMV or the monitoring company to confirm your completion date and what steps you need to take. You'll likely need to provide proof that the device was installed and maintained throughout the period, and that you passed all required tests. The monitoring company usually submits this documentation on your behalf.
After removal is approved, the ISS notation is removed from your license, but the conviction itself remains on your driving record. The conviction may still affect insurance rates and future licensing decisions.
ISS versus other DUI-related license restrictions
ISS is one of several restrictions that can appear on a license after a DUI conviction. Other common ones include a suspended license (you cannot drive at all), a restricted license (you can drive only to work, school, or court), or an alcohol education program requirement.
Some states use a combination of these. For example, you might have a restricted license that allows you to drive only if your vehicle has an interlock device installed. In other cases, you complete an alcohol education program and then move into an ISS period. The specific combination depends on your state's laws, your BAC level at the time of arrest, and whether you had prior DUI convictions.
Your court paperwork will specify exactly which restrictions explore to you and in what order. If you're unsure, contact the court that handled your case or your state's DMV.
What to expect during your ISS period
Your first step is to have the device installed by an approved vendor in your state. The DMV or court will provide a list of certified installers. Installation usually takes 30 minutes to an hour and costs $100 to $300, depending on your vehicle and location.
After installation, you'll need to visit a monitoring center monthly for calibration and data downloads. Some devices allow remote monitoring, so you may not need to visit in person every time. You're responsible for keeping all appointments and paying all fees on time.
During your ISS period, you can drive normally as long as you pass all breath tests. You can drive to work, school, social events, and anywhere else. The only restriction is that you cannot drive a vehicle without the device installed. If you need to drive a different vehicle temporarily, you'll need to have the device transferred or installed in that vehicle first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive someone else's car if I have ISS on my license?
No. If you have an active ISS restriction, any vehicle you operate must have an approved ignition interlock device installed. Driving a vehicle without one is a violation, even if the car belongs to someone else. You can only drive vehicles that have the device installed and properly maintained.
What if I can't afford the interlock device fees?
Many states offer reduced fees or payment plans for people with financial hardship. Contact your state's DMV or the monitoring company to ask about income-based information. Some programs allow you to defer installation temporarily if you can demonstrate that you have no access to a vehicle, though this is rare and requires court approval.
Does ISS appear on my driving record if someone else checks it?
Yes. ISS is part of your official driving record and will appear when your record is pulled by employers, insurance companies, or law enforcement. It indicates an active court-ordered restriction. After the restriction is removed, the ISS notation disappears, but the underlying DUI conviction remains on your record.
Can I get my ISS period shortened?
In most states, no. The court sets the ISS period as part of your sentence, and it cannot be shortened. However, some states allow early removal if you maintain a perfect record (no failed tests, no violations) for a portion of the period. Check with the court that issued your order or your state's DMV to see if early removal is possible in your situation.
What happens if the device malfunctions?
Contact your monitoring company when ready. A malfunction is not your fault, but you're still required to have a working device in your vehicle. The company will repair or replace it as quickly as possible, usually within 24 to 48 hours. Keep documentation of the malfunction and repair in case it's questioned later.