If convicted of impaired driving in London, Ontario, you must install an approved Ignition Interlock device to drive legally. This breathalyzer prevents your vehicle from starting if it detects alcohol. Between installation, monthly rentals, and calibration fees, the program typically costs around $1,500 to $2,000 CAD per year.
A conviction for impaired driving or operating a vehicle “Over 80 mgs” carries a mandatory minimum one-year driving prohibition under the Criminal Code of Canada. 📖 For most residents in London, going a full year without a car means losing their job and being unable to support their family. To mitigate this extreme hardship, the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) offers the Ignition Interlock Program, which allows eligible drivers to get back on the road much sooner.
An Ignition Interlock device is a highly sophisticated, in-car breathalyzer wired directly to your vehicle’s engine. You must provide a clean breath sample to start the car, and you must continue to provide random “rolling retests” while driving. Entering this program is a privilege, not a right, and it requires strict adherence to MTO rules, regular maintenance appointments at a local London service centre, and a significant financial commitment.
Step-by-Step Process in London, Ontario
Participating in the interlock program requires coordinating with the courts, the MTO, and private installation companies. 📍 If you attempt to drive without the device while your licence is marked with an “I” condition, you will face severe criminal charges and your vehicle will be impounded.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility (Stream A vs. Stream B)
Before you can install a device, you must determine when you are legally allowed to drive. In Ontario, if you plead guilty to a first-time impaired driving offence within 90 days of your charge, you may qualify for “Stream A.” This allows you to reduce your absolute suspension to just 3 months, followed by 9 months of driving with an interlock.
If you take your case to trial and lose, you fall into “Stream B,” meaning you must wait 6 months before installing the device, and you must use it for 12 months. 💼 Your local defence lawyer will be instrumental in negotiating your eligibility for Stream A during your court appearances.
Step 2: Register for Back on Track and Contact a Provider
The MTO will not approve your interlock installation unless you have already registered for the mandatory Back on Track remedial program. Once registered, you must contact one of the two MTO-approved private providers: ALCOLOCK Canada or Smart Start Canada. Both companies have authorized installation garages within the city of London.
You will need to schedule an appointment to have the device hardwired into your vehicle’s ignition system. 🛒 During this appointment, the technician will train you on how to properly blow and hum into the device to register a reading.
Step 3: Monthly Calibrations and Data Downloads
The device actively records every single time you start the car, every breath test you take, and any failed attempts or tampering. You must drive your vehicle back to the London installation centre every 30 to 60 days.
During these appointments, the technician calibrates the machine to ensure accuracy and downloads all the data, which is sent directly to the MTO. 🚨 If the data shows you tried to start the car after drinking, your interlock period can be significantly extended, and you may face additional penalties.
How Much Does it Cost in London?
The Ignition Interlock program is operated by private companies, and you are entirely responsible for all the associated costs. 💰 Here is what you should budget for the first year.
| Installation Fee | $100 – $200 CAD (One-time) |
| Monthly Rental & Calibration | $100 – $150 CAD per month |
| Loss/Damage Insurance (Optional) | $10 – $20 CAD per month |
| Removal Fee | $50 – $100 CAD (When the program ends) |
How Long Does the Process Take?
The duration you must have the device installed depends heavily on your driving record. ⌚ For a first-time offender in Stream A, the device must be installed for exactly 9 months. If it is your second offence within 10 years, the MTO mandates an interlock period of 3 years. For a third offence, you may be required to keep the device installed for life, though you can apply for a review after 10 years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can someone else drive my car if the interlock is installed?
Yes, your spouse or family members can drive the vehicle, but they must use the breathalyzer exactly as you do. However, you are strictly held responsible for all data recorded. If they blow a fail, the MTO will assume it was you and penalize your file.
Does the device detect drugs like cannabis?
No. The current MTO-approved Ignition Interlock devices are designed exclusively to detect the presence of alcohol (ethanol) on your breath. They do not test for THC, prescription medication, or illicit drugs.
What happens if I eat food or use mouthwash before blowing?
Products containing alcohol, such as certain mouthwashes, cough syrups, or even fermented foods like pizza dough or spicy dishes, can cause a false positive “warn” or “fail.” You should rinse your mouth with water and wait 15 minutes before re-testing.
Can a law firm help me avoid the interlock program?
The only way to completely avoid the interlock program is to win your case at trial or have your defence lawyer negotiate a lesser, non-criminal charge (like careless driving). If convicted of a criminal impaired charge, the interlock program is mandatory to drive.
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