In Rhode Island, an ignition interlock license is a limited privilege to operate a motor vehicle that is typically imposed as part of a sentence on a DUI or chemical test refusal case. The ignition interlock license permits the individual to operate a motor vehicle without any day, time, or location restrictions so long as are operating the vehicle that has the device installed. 

For most first offense DUI cases, the ignition interlock license will be imposed for a minimum mandatory period of three months. For first offense chemical test refusal cases, the ignition interlock license will be imposed for a mandatory minimum period of six months. 

After a Court case has been resolved and the Court has ordered a period of driving with the ignition interlock device, the individual must personally appear at the Rhode Island DMV – Operator Control Division at the DMV Headquarters located at 600 New London Avenue Cranston, RI to obtain their ignition interlock license. Without approval from the RI DMV, the ignition interlock license will not be in place.

When you appear at the Rhode Island DMV – Operator Control Division to obtain an ignition interlock license, you will need to present a number of documents and items to the hearing officer. These items include:

• Proof of installation of an ignition interlock device (called an ignition interlock “certificate”
• Proof of an SR-22 Insurance Policy
• Court Order with specifications regarding the ignition interlock period
• Payment of a $100 ignition interlock fee
• Payment of the required fee for the DUI School (if ordered by the Court)
• Payment of a $6.50 fee to update the license and add the ignition interlock restriction
• Payment of a $351.50 license reinstatement fee 

Once you have complied with the conditions listed above, the Rhode Island DMV will issue you an ignition interlock license. With that license, the only restriction on your privileges to operate a motor vehicle would be the continued use of the ignition interlock device and compliance with all rules related to the use of the device.

After the period of ignition interlock use ordered by the Court has expired, you will again be required to return to the RI DMV to fully reinstate your driving privileges. If you have any questions about ignition interlock licenses in Rhode Island or whether you might be eligible for an ignition interlock license due to your Rhode Island DUI or chemical test refusal case, contact Attorney Matthew Marin for skilled and experienced legal advice and representation. We are available 24/7 at 401-228-8271 to discuss your case, the options available to you, and how we can help.