How Much Does An Ignition Interlock Device Cost In Las Vegas?
Nevada IID costs at a glance:
Installation costs range from $65-$250, monthly fees are $55-$70, and first-year totals run $850-$1,200. However, these costs can often be reduced or avoided entirely with proper legal representation.
- Installation: $65-$250
- Monthly lease: $55-$70
- First year total: $850-$1,200
A DUI conviction in Nevada doesn’t just mean fines and possible jail time – it almost always means you’ll be ordered to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. This small breathalyzer connects to your car’s ignition and prevents you from starting the engine if it detects alcohol on your breath.
The costs add up quickly, but more importantly, you need to understand your options. The Defenders have successfully helped many clients avoid IID requirements entirely or get them significantly reduced through aggressive representation and knowledge of Nevada law.
What Is An Ignition Interlock Device And How Does It Work?
An ignition interlock device is essentially a car breathalyzer about the size of a cell phone. Nevada law under NRS 484C.053 defines it as a mechanism that tests your breath and prevents your car from starting if your blood alcohol content is 0.02% or higher.
You blow into the device before starting your car, and if it detects alcohol, your engine won’t start. The device also requires “rolling retests” while you’re driving – typically within 15 minutes of starting and then every 45 minutes thereafter. All of this data is logged and reported to the court.
If you fail a rolling retest while driving, your car won’t shut off immediately (that would be dangerous), but the violation will be recorded and reported. Too many violations can extend your IID period significantly.
How Much Do Ignition Interlock Devices Cost In Las Vegas?
You are responsible for all costs associated with your ignition interlock device. Nevada courts will not pay for installation, maintenance, or removal. Here’s what you can expect to pay in Las Vegas:
| Provider | Installation | Monthly Fee | Service/Calibration | Removal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intoxalock | $65 | $54.99 | $20 | Varies |
| Smart Start | Starting at $150 | Starting at $59.99 | Starting at $25 | Varies |
| Low Cost Interlock | $100-$250 | $69.99 | $20 | $129.50 |
Pricing shown reflects what providers advertise on their websites as of June 2025 and is subject to change; actual costs may vary based on vehicle type, location, and individual circumstances.
Based on these rates, you’re looking at approximately $450-$700 for a first-time DUI (185 days), $850-$1,200 for a second DUI (1 year), and $2,400-$3,200 for a felony DUI (3 years). These costs don’t include the lost time for monthly service appointments.
Who Needs An Ignition Interlock Device In Nevada?
Under Nevada Revised Statutes 484C.460, the court shall order you to install an IID if you’re convicted of any DUI offense. The length depends on your specific situation:
- First DUI: 185 days (may be waived in limited circumstances)
- Second DUI within 7 years: 1 year mandatory
- Third DUI within 7 years: 3 years mandatory (felony)
- DUI causing injury or death: 3 years mandatory
Additionally, if you refuse a breath or blood test, you’ll need an IID to get any driving privileges back, even if you’re never convicted of DUI.
Can You Avoid Getting An Ignition Interlock Device?
This is the most important question, and the answer is yes – but only with proper legal representation and in specific circumstances. The Defenders know the procedures and have successfully obtained IID exemptions for qualified clients.
Undue hardship exemptions under NRS 484C.460 apply only to first-time DUI offenses and include medical inability (you cannot provide an adequate breath sample due to a medical condition requiring physician certification) and geographic hardship (you live more than 100 miles from a certified IID provider).
The law is very specific about these exceptions, and they’re not automatically granted. You need an experienced attorney who knows exactly how to present these arguments to Las Vegas judges. The Defenders have the courtroom experience and relationships necessary to maximize your chances of success.
Even more importantly, we may be able to negotiate plea agreements that avoid IID requirements altogether, depending on the strength of your case and the specific circumstances of your arrest.
Where Do You Get An Ignition Interlock Device Installed In Las Vegas?
You must use a provider certified by the Nevada Committee on Testing for Intoxication. The main installation providers in the Las Vegas area include Smart Start (multiple Las Vegas and Henderson locations), Low Cost Interlock (Las Vegas area locations), and Intoxalock (multiple locations throughout the Las Vegas valley)
You must provide proof of IID installation to the Nevada DMV within 30 days of your court order, or you’ll face additional penalties.
What Are The Penalties For Driving Without An Ignition Interlock Device?
Driving without an IID when court-ordered is a serious misdemeanor in Nevada under NRS 484C.470. The penalties are severe and cannot be plea bargained away.
| Violation Type | Criminal Penalty Options | License Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| First violation | 30 days to 6 months jail OR 60 days to 6 months residential confinement + $500-$1,000 fine | 3-year license revocation |
| Second violation | 30 days to 6 months jail OR 60 days to 6 months residential confinement + $500-$1,000 fine | 5-year license revocation |
These penalties are mandatory. Under NRS 484C.470, judges may sentence violators to either 30 days to 6 months in jail OR 60 days to 6 months of residential confinement with $500-$1,000 in fines. The law specifically states that no person punished under this section may be granted probation, and no sentence may be suspended. Prosecutors cannot dismiss the charges either.
Do You Need An IID In Every Vehicle You Drive?
Yes, Nevada law requires an IID in every vehicle you operate, whether you own it or not. This includes family vehicles, rental cars, and borrowed vehicles.
The only exception is for employer-owned vehicles, and even then, you must provide written notification to your employer about your IID restriction and keep proof of this notification in the company vehicle at all times. This exception does not apply to vehicles owned by a business you own or control.
How Often Do You Need Ignition Interlock Device Maintenance?
Nevada requires you to have your device inspected, calibrated, and maintained at least once every 90 days. During these appointments, the technician downloads all test data and submits a compliance report to the court and Nevada DMV.
Missing a required service appointment is considered a violation and will be reported to the court. You’re responsible for scheduling and paying for these appointments.
What Should You Do If You’ve Been Ordered To Install An IID?
Don’t panic, but do act quickly. You have options, even after a court order. Call The Defenders immediately – we may still be able to petition for an exemption or file an appeal. Don’t install the device yet if we’re going to challenge the order, as timing matters. Gather documentation including medical records, employment information, and financial hardship evidence, and research providers to compare costs and locations if installation becomes necessary.
Remember, The Defenders have successfully helped many clients avoid IID requirements or get them reduced. Even after you’ve been ordered to install one, legal options may still exist.
Related DUI Information
- First DUI penalties in Nevada – Understand all potential consequences
- DUI license suspension guide – Alternative outcomes to IID
- Complete DUI cost breakdown – All expenses beyond IID requirements
- Second and third DUI penalties – Enhanced IID periods for repeat offenses
- DUI impact on car insurance – SR-22 requirements and rate increases
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I need to have an ignition interlock device in my car?
It depends on your DUI conviction. First-time offenders need an IID for 185 days, second-time offenders for 1 year, and felony DUI convictions require 3 years. The Defenders may be able to help you petition for a reduced period or exemption.
Is there any way to avoid getting an IID installed in my car?
Yes, but only in limited situations. You may qualify for an undue hardship exemption if you have medical conditions preventing adequate breath samples or live more than 100 miles from a provider. The Defenders can help you petition for these exemptions or negotiate plea agreements that avoid IID requirements.
Can I drive someone else’s car if it doesn’t have an ignition interlock device?
No, if you’re court-ordered to have an IID, you cannot drive any vehicle without one installed. This includes rental cars, borrowed vehicles, and family members’ cars. Violating this requirement is a misdemeanor punishable by 30 days to 6 months in jail OR 60 days to 6 months residential confinement plus fines, and a 3-year license revocation.
Do I need to pay for the installation and calibration of my IID?
Yes, you are responsible for all costs associated with your ignition interlock device. Nevada offers limited financial assistance for individuals earning 150% of the federal poverty level or below, and many providers offer payment plans.
What happens if I don’t comply with my ignition interlock device order?
Non-compliance results in either 30 days to 6 months in jail OR 60 days to 6 months residential confinement plus $500-$1,000 in fines, and a 3-year license revocation (5 years for repeat violations). These penalties cannot be suspended or plea bargained away, and you’ll need to restart your entire IID program.
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