Alcohol Interlock Program

The magistrate will decide how long you need to participate in the program.

The law sets out different minimum participation periods for different offences. The magistrate can order a longer participation period if they think it is necessary.

A magistrate can exempt you from participating in the Interlock Program. The Exemption Order is made at the time of sentencing.

The magistrate can only grant an exemption if:

• You don’t have access to a vehicle in which to install the interlock device;
• You have a medical condition that prevents you from using the device (diagnosed by a doctor); or
• If your offence was a first offence of Mid Range PCA, the making of the interlock order would cause you severe hardship such that the exemption order is more appropriate.

In practice, it is not easy to obtain an interlock exemption, and often drivers would prefer to participate in the program as the alternative is a much longer disqualification period. Contact us today for an assessment of whether you may qualify for an exemption and if so, if it would be best in your situation.

Your licence will be disqualified for 5 years if you don’t complete your interlock program.

You can begin the process of enrolling in the interlock program 28 days before your disqualification finishes. The RMS will usually send you a letter around this time.

Follow these steps to begin the interlock program:

1. See your doctor: Your doctor will assess you and complete a Medical Consultation Certificate. You must see your doctor within the 28 days before you apply for the interlock licence.

2. Have the device installed: The device must be installed before you apply for your interlock licence. You will need to provide a certificate from an accredited interlock service provider to prove this. You can find a list of accredited interlock service providers on the RMS website.

3. Sign your driver’s licence statement and privacy declaration: This needs to be done before you apply for your interlock licence. You can download the form from the RMS website.

4. Apply for your interlock licence: Once your disqualification period has finished, you can apply for your interlock drivers licence at a Services NSW registry.