Mass. Ignition Interlock Restrictions

I am wiring in response to some inquiries which I’ve received regarding ignition interlock usage. First, drivers who have Massachusetts ignition interlock restricted licenses are allowed to drive anywhere in the country. A license with an ignition interlock restriction does not prohibit a driver from operating in states other than Massachusetts. However, IID restricted drivers cannot rent vehicles because the rental cars are not equipped with the required IID.  

Drivers with interlock restrictions can drive work trucks and employer’s vehicles, so long as the cars are IID equipped. However, the Registry will not allow interlock restricted drivers to operate motorcycles or CDL vehicles. The Registry Hearings Officers who put interlock-restricted drivers back on the road will automatically downgrade any commercial driver’s licenses and remove any motorcycle endorsements prior to allowing a driver with a “Z” restriction back on the road.

Interlock restricitons must remain in place during any hardship license and for 2 years after the issuance of a full license.

Interlock-restricted drivers cannot have any vehicles registered to them unless those vehicles are equipped with ignition interlock devices, even if the restricted driver never drives the car without the IID. This is because Melanie’s law mandates that the devices be installed in any vehicle which an IID restricted person owns, leases, or drives.

IID violations can result in 10 year or lifetime license revocations. If you are facing a violation, contact Attorney Brian E. Simoneau for a free review of your IID case.