Allowing Operation without the IID

G.L. c. 90 § 12(c) prohibits allowing a person who has an ignition interlock restricted license from operating a motor vehicle which does not have a certified and functional Ignition Interlock Device installed. This means that if you knowingly allow a motor vehicle which you own or control to be driven or operated by someone who has the “Z” restriction on his or her license, you may face a 1 year sentence of incarceration in a house of correction and a fine of up to $500.00. Also, the Registry of Motor Vehicles may suspend your driver’s license or revoke your motor vehicle registration for up to one year.

Whenever a customer joins the Registry’s Ignition Interlock Program, the Registry will require that customer to provide a signed “other licensed resident” affidavit. This is a sworn and notarized statement which must be signed by any licensed driver who resides in the customer’s household. This affidavit can be used in a criminal prosecution or Registry hearing to prove that the other licensed resident knew that the customer’s license was restricted to operating only those vehicles which have a functioning and certified ignition interlock.

If you have someone living with you whose license is restricted, you must not allow him or her to operate your vehicle unless it is equipped with an IID and registered with the RMV ignition interlock program. Being caught operating without interlock may subject the restricted-driver to severe criminal and administrative penalties and it may subject the car owner or person in control of the car to serious consequences.