The Washington State Patrol (WSP) Ignition Interlock Program oversees the monitoring and compliance of ignition interlock devices across Washington State under the authority of RCW 46.20.720, RCW 43.43.395, and 204-50 WAC WSP’s role is to monitor program compliance, ensure that ignition interlock manufacturers, technicians, and service centers follow Washington’s regulations, and investigate potential violations of interlock laws or device standards. The main WSP Ignition Interlock Program Web page can be found here along with contact information for the WSP. The WSP does not determine license reinstatement eligibility or have the authority to void ignition interlock violations; those matters are handled by the Department of Licensing (DOL) and, when applicable, the courts.
If you have received an Ignition Interlock Warning Notice from the WSP, it means we received a report that you are not in compliance. These reports help ensure that drivers required to use an ignition interlock device remain in compliance with the conditions of their restricted license. This Web page is designed to help you understand what your notice means, what steps you may need to take, and where to find accurate information about your ignition interlock requirements. You’ll also find details about possible exceptions, available resources for support, and how to contact the appropriate agencies for assistance.
There are two types of ignition interlock notices issued by the Washington State Patrol (WSP).
Select Your Notice Type
What You Need to Know
If you received an Ignition Interlock Violation Notice from the WSP, your ignition interlock provider has reported one or more violations on your device.
These violations can delay your ability to remove the interlock requirement from your license and may result in additional penalties.
Common Violations
Violations reported by your interlock provider include one or more of the following:
- Breath test result at or above the alcohol set point
- Missed or skipped retest after vehicle start
- Missed service appointment
- Unauthorized device removal
- Tampering, altering, or attempts to circumvent the device
Consequences of Violations
Under RCW 46.20.720(4), your ignition interlock restriction cannot be removed until you have completed the last 180-days of your required period without any violations.
Violations may lead to:
- Extension of your ignition interlock requirement period
- Delays in license reinstatement with the Department of Licensing (DOL)
- Additional costs or service fees from your interlock provider
- Possible civil or criminal penalties for tampering, circumvention, or unauthorized removal
It is your responsibility to understand and comply with all ignition interlock requirements to avoid further consequences.
Exceptions to Violations
Certain events reported by your ignition interlock device may not count as violations under RCW 46.20.720(4) if specific conditions are met. These exceptions recognize that not every event indicates noncompliance or alcohol use.
A reported event may not be counted as a violation if:
- You retest within 10 minutes after a positive or failed breath test, and the subsequent test result is below the alcohol set point, provided the same person performs both tests and this is confirmed by the device camera.
- The vehicle was not occupied at the time of a missed or skipped retest.
- A missed service appointment was the result of circumstances beyond your control, such as verified equipment failure, service center error, or a documented emergency.
- The violation was caused by a device malfunction that can be confirmed and documented by your interlock provider.
It is vitally important not to tamper with, cover, or obstruct the ignition interlock camera. Camera verification is used to confirm who provided each test. A violation will not count against the restricted driver if it can be verified on camera that another individual caused the violation. However, if the camera is obstructed or tampered with, this verification cannot occur, and the event will be treated as a valid violation.
Requests for review or reconsideration of a violation must be submitted directly to your ignition interlock manufacturer.
If the manufacturer denies your request, you may then seek further review through the Department of Licensing (DOL) and, if necessary, through the courts.
While the WSP does not have authority to void qualifying violations, WSP may investigate potential regulatory violations by interlock manufacturers—such as failing to conduct a proper review, failing to provide proper training and device maintenance, or doing so in a negligent manner—to ensure compliance with WSP; WAC 204-50 and protect the integrity of the program.
If none of these exceptions apply, you should take immediate steps to address the violation and continue using your ignition interlock device in full compliance with program requirements.
What You Should Do Next
If you received a violation notice:
- Read the notice and this webpage carefully. Review the type of violation reported and the date it occurred. If you are unsure about the violation type or date, contact the Investigating Officer listed on your notice.
- Do not remove or disconnect your device. Unauthorized removal is a violation.
- Contact your ignition interlock provider if you believe there was an equipment error, or you need clarification about a violation.
- Continue using your device as required. Stopping use may result in additional noncompliance.
- Keep all service appointments and respond promptly to communication from your provider or WSP.
Taking immediate action helps prevent your interlock restriction period from being extended.
Staying in Compliance
To successfully complete your ignition interlock requirement, you must:
- Provide all required breath samples and retests.
- Keep all device service appointments on time.
- Avoid alcohol before operating your vehicle.
- Never attempt to tamper with or bypass the device.
- Maintain communication with your interlock provider and WSP if directed.
Completing your interlock period without any reported violations is the only way to qualify for removal of the restriction.
Need Help or Support?
The WSP can help answer questions about the ignition interlock program, including general guidance on violations, compliance expectations, or regulatory requirements under WAC 204-50.
If you believe your ignition interlock device has malfunctioned or that a regulatory violation may have occurred, you are encouraged to contact the WSP Ignition Interlock Program directly for assistance or clarification.
If you’re struggling with alcohol use or have repeated violations, help is available. Getting support early can make it easier to stay in compliance and successfully complete the program.
Resources:
- Washington Recovery Help Line – 24/7 confidential support: 1-866-789-1511 or https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/
- Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery – Find certified treatment providers: https://www.hca.wa.gov
Learn How to Use Your Interlock Device
Understanding how your device works helps prevent accidental violations.
Watch the Interlock Customer Training Videos for step-by-step guidance:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happens if I keep getting violations?
Multiple violations can extend your ignition interlock requirement period.
Repeated violations may also trigger a review of your compliance status and could result in further penalties, including referral to DOL or court for noncompliance.
How do I know when I’m eligible to remove my ignition interlock device?
You must complete your required ignition interlock period without any violations as defined in RCW 46.20.720(4).
Once you’ve met that requirement, the Department of Licensing (DOL) will determine your eligibility for removal.
Who should I contact if I have questions about my violation notice?
- Contact your ignition interlock provider first to discuss specific violation details or potential equipment issues.
- If you received a notice from WSP and have questions about your case, contact the Investigating Officer listed on your notice.
- You may also contact the WSP Ignition Interlock Program directly for general questions or assistance.
Can a single failed test extend my interlock time?
It depends on several factors. Even one qualifying violation during your final 180-day compliance period will reset your “violation-free” period required for removal, so it’s important to stay compliant.
What should I do if I believe my violation was reported in error?
Contact your ignition interlock provider immediately to review the data and confirm whether a malfunction occurred.
If necessary, your provider can document findings or repairs that may support your case.
What happens if I remove my device early or stop using it?
Removing your device without authorization is a violation under RCW 46.20.720(4). Doing so can lead to criminal penalties and may extend your ignition interlock period once you reinstall the device.
Removing your device to swap it between vehicles or to change to a different interlock company will not impact your restriction period as long as there is no delay.
Driving Without a Required Ignition Interlock Device Is a Criminal Offense in Washington State
Driving without a required interlock device is a criminal offense under RCW 46.20.740 and may result in fines, jail time, and vehicle impoundment.
The following information explains what this notice means and what steps you must take immediately.
What This Notice Means
If you received a Washington State Patrol (WSP) Ignition Interlock Non-Compliance Notice, the Department of Licensing (DOL) currently shows that you are required to have an ignition interlock device installed, but there is no active installation record on file.
Operating a vehicle without an approved ignition interlock device while under an interlock restriction is a gross misdemeanor criminal offense under RCW 46.20.740.
This violation may lead to:
- Criminal charges filed in a Washington State court
- Fines and court costs
- Jail time upon conviction
- Impoundment of the vehicle driven without an interlock
- Extension of your ignition interlock restriction period
These penalties are in addition to any administrative actions taken by the Department of Licensing, such as suspension or denial of license reinstatement.
What You Should Do Immediately
- 1. Do not drive any vehicle that is not equipped with a certified ignition interlock device.
2. Contact an approved ignition interlock service center right away to have a device installed. A list of WSP-certified manufacturers and service centers is available under the ‘Manufacturers‘ section.
3. Keep proof of installation and all service records for your device.
4. If you already have an active interlock installation or believe you have already completed your ignition interlock, contact your interlock provider and DOL to confirm your records are accurate and up to date.
5. If you believe this notice was sent in error, contact the investigating officer listed on your notice for review.
Failure to take immediate action can result in additional criminal penalties, license suspension, or a longer ignition interlock restriction period.
Staying in Compliance
To remain compliant and avoid further legal consequences:
- Drive only vehicles equipped with an approved ignition interlock device.
- Keep your device properly serviced and calibrated at all required intervals.
- Do not tamper with, remove, or disable the device.
- Maintain communication with your ignition interlock provider and the Washington State Patrol as required.
- If you move out of Washington State, your ignition interlock restriction still applies under RCW 46.20.720(8) until you have completed all of the requirements for removal.
Possible Criminal Penalties
Under RCW 46.20.740, operating a motor vehicle without a required ignition interlock device or attempting to circumvent the requirement is a gross misdemeanor, punishable by:
- Up to 364 days in jail;
- A fine of up to $5,000;
- Possible vehicle impoundment; and
- An additional 180-day extension of your interlock restriction period per offense.
Each offense is taken seriously and may also affect existing probation conditions or court-ordered monitoring.
Financial Assistance and Medical Exemption Programs
If you cannot afford the costs associated with installing or maintaining an ignition interlock device, or if you have a verified medical condition that prevents you from providing a proper breath sample, DOL may be able to help.
Indigent Assistance Program
Under RCW 46.20.745 , drivers who qualify as indigent may be eligible for financial assistance to offset the cost of ignition interlock installation and monthly monitoring. Funding is provided through DOL’s ignition interlock device revolving account.
To learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply, visit the DOL Ignition Interlock Financial Assistance page.
Medical Exemption Program
Drivers with documented medical conditions that prevent them from providing an adequate breath sample may request a medical exemption or alternative requirement through DOL.
Information and application forms can be found on the DOL Ignition Interlock Medical Exemption page.
For both programs, DOL is the primary authority for review and approval. The Washington State Patrol cannot approve or deny funding or medical exemption requests but may verify related information as part of compliance monitoring.
If You No Longer Intend to Drive
If you no longer plan to drive or do not intend to maintain a valid driver license, you may surrender your driver license and request an identification (ID) card instead.
Surrendering your driver license will not remove the ignition interlock restriction from your record, but it will stop you from appearing as an active driver who is not in compliance. If you decide to resume driving in the future, you must first install a certified ignition interlock device and complete all compliance requirements before your license can be reinstated.
To learn more or begin the process of surrendering your driver license, visit the DOL Surrender Your License page or contact the Washington State Department of Licensing directly at (360) 902-3900.
Frequently Asked Questions – Non-Compliance Notices
What does “non-compliance” mean?
“Non-compliance” means that DOL does not show an active ignition interlock device installed for a driver who is legally required to have one. This may occur if a device was removed, never installed, or if service information was not transmitted to DOL.
Can I still drive while I’m listed as non-compliant?
No. Driving any vehicle without an ignition interlock device while under an interlock restriction is a gross misdemeanor under RCW 46.20.740. Doing so can result in criminal charges, fines, jail time, vehicle impoundment, and additional interlock restriction time.
What if I removed my ignition interlock device because I thought I was done?
You may not have completed all the requirements and still be under restriction. Contact DOL immediately to verify your interlock requirement and do not drive until you confirm that your restriction has officially ended. If you remove the device early, your restriction may be extended day-for-day under RCW 46.20.720(5).
I think my installation was reported incorrectly. What should I do?
Contact your ignition interlock service provider and ask them to verify your installation record. You may also confirm your status directly with DOL to ensure their records match. Keep documentation showing when and where your device was installed or serviced.
What happens if I ignore this notice?
Ignoring a Non-Compliance Notice will not make it go away. This notice serves as a warning and an opportunity to correct your status before further action is taken. If you do not become compliant, your case may be referred for criminal investigation and prosecution under RCW 46.20.740. Both the WSP and the DOL monitor these cases closely and take enforcement action when necessary.
Can I get financial or medical assistance if I can’t install the device?
Yes. The Department of Licensing manages both a Financial Assistance (Indigent) Program and a Medical Exemption Program for qualifying drivers. See the “Financial Assistance and Medical Exemption Programs” section above for details and links.
I don’t plan to drive again. What should I do?
You can surrender your driver license and request a Washington State identification (ID) card instead. This removes you from appearing as an active driver out of compliance but does not erase your ignition interlock restriction. If you ever resume driving, you must meet all interlock requirements before reinstatement.
Need Help or Support?
The WSP can help answer questions about the ignition interlock program, including general guidance on violations, compliance expectations, or regulatory requirements under 204-50 WAC. You are encouraged to contact the WSP Ignition Interlock Program directly for assistance or clarification.
Washington State Patrol Ignition Interlock Program – For questions about program requirements or to report a regulatory concern:
✉️ignition.interlock@wsp.wa.gov | 📞(206) 720-3018
If you’re having difficulty staying in compliance with your ignition interlock requirements, help is available. Getting support early can make it easier to meet your obligations and successfully complete the program.
- Washington Recovery Help Line – 24/7 confidential support: 1-866-789-1511
- Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery – Find certified treatment providers: https://www.hca.wa.gov
If you are facing financial or personal barriers to compliance, DOL offers programs that may help.
Washington State Department of Licensing – (360) 902-3900 | https://www.dol.wa.gov
Learn More
- RCW 46.20.740 – Operating a vehicle without an ignition interlock device
- RCW 46.20.720 – Ignition Interlock Requirements
- 204-50 WAC – Ignition Interlock Devices
- Washington State Patrol Ignition Interlock Program
