Mandatory Alcohol Interlock Program
From 1 February 2015, stricter penalties for NSW drivers convicted of serious and repeat drink driving offences came into effect. Under the new laws these offenders will be restricted to driving vehicles with alcohol interlock devices for a period of time when they return to driving. What is an interlock? Interlocks are electronic breath testing devices linked to the ignition system of cars, motorcycles and heavy vehicles. Drivers must provide a breath sample that the interlock analyses for the presence of alcohol before the vehicle will start. If a positive sample is detected, the vehicle will not start. Randomly timed breath tests must also be passed during a journey. Who is required to participate in the Mandatory Alcohol Interlock Program? All drivers convicted of a repeat or serious drink driving offence committed on or after 1 February 2015 will receive an interlock order that requires them to participate in the Mandatory Alcohol Interlock Program (unless the court determ...