DO I NEED AN IGNITION INTERLOCK AFTER A FIRST DUI IN MISSOURI?

DUI

Getting a DUI for the first time can feel overwhelming—court dates, license issues, and the big question:

“Am I going to need one of those breathalyzer things in my car?”

In Missouri, the answer might be yes, even for a first-time DUI offense.

The device you’re referring to is called an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) and while it’s designed to prevent repeat offenses, it can come with some serious consequences, costs, and confusion.

Let’s break it all down and explain how an experienced Kansas City DUI attorney can help minimize the impact on your life and driving privileges.

WHAT IS AN IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICE (IID)?

An Ignition Interlock Device is a small, court- or state-ordered breathalyzer installed in your vehicle. Before your car will start, you must blow into the device.

If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) registers above the legal limit (usually 0.02 or lower for IID purposes), the car won’t start.

IIDs are also programmed to require random retests while you drive, yes, seriously. If you fail or miss a test, it’s reported to the court or the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR).

WHEN IS AN IID REQUIRED FOR A FIRST TIME DUI?

In Missouri, whether you’re required to install an IID after a first-time DUI depends on:

  1. Your BAC level at the time of arrest
  2. Whether you refused the breath or blood test
  3. If you’re seeking early reinstatement of your license
  4. Court discretion or plea agreement terms

Here’s how it typically works:

  • First offense, BAC under 0.15%: IID not automatically required, but the court can order it as part of sentencing or probation.
  • BAC 0.15% or higher: Missouri law may require an IID for license reinstatement.
  • Refusal to test: You’ll face a 1-year revocation, and to get back on the road early (through a Limited Driving Privilege, or LDP), you must install an IID.

In many cases, if you want to drive legally while your license is suspended, you’ll have to agree to install an IID as part of the condition.

HOW MUCH DOES AN IDD COST YOU?

Installing and maintaining an IID isn’t free. Typical costs include:

  • Installation: $100–$200
  • Monthly monitoring fees: $75–$125
  • Removal fees after the mandated period ends

It adds up, especially if your case could have been reduced, dismissed, or handled differently.

HOW LONG WILL I NEED TO KEEP THE IID?

For a first-time offense, the required IID period in Missouri is often 6 months to 1 year, depending on:

  • Your BAC
  • Court orders
  • Compliance history
  • Whether you’re on a Limited Driving Privilege

Missouri law requires continuous, violation-free use of the device for at least 90 days before removal.

HOW CAN AN EXPERIENCED KANSAS CITY DUI LAWYER HELP YOU?

At Speeding Ticket KC, we don’t just fight to reduce or dismiss your DUI, we fight to help you avoid the long-term consequences like an Ignition Interlock Device. We can:

  • Challenge the traffic stop and test results
  • Negotiate plea deals that avoid IID installation
  • Help you apply for a Limited Driving Privilege without delays
  • Make sure your rights are protected at every stage

In many first-time DUI cases, we’ve successfully helped clients avoid IID requirements altogether.

CALL SPEEDING TICKET KC FOR A FREE CASE EVALUATION TODAY

A first-time DUI doesn’t automatically mean an Ignition Interlock—but without legal help, it very well might. Your best chance at avoiding this expensive, frustrating device? Hire an experienced DUI defense lawyer who knows how to fight for you.

Call Speeding Ticket KC today for a free case evaluation. We’ll guide you through your options and work to protect your license, your record, and your wallet.

Cities we serve: Adrian, Archie, Bates City, Belton, Blue Springs, Buckner, Butler, Cameron, Claycomo, Cleveland,  Drexel, Fairview,  Ferrelview,  Gladstone, Grain Valley, Grandview, Greenwood, Houston Lake, Independence, Kansas City Missouri, Kearney, , Knob Noster, Lake Lotawana, Lake Tapawingo, Lake Waukomis, Lake Winnebago, Lawson, Lee’s Summit, Liberty, North Kansas City, Oak Grove, Oakview,  Parkville, Peculiar,, Platte City, Platte Woods, Plattsburg, Pleasant Hill,  Raymore, Raytown, Riverside, Smithville, Sugar Creek, Tracy,  Warrensberg, Weatherby Lake, and Weston.

Statewide: Missouri State Highway Patrol and Sheriff Counties we serve: Bates County, Cass County, Clay County, Jackson County, Platte County, Ray County.

Contact us if your ticket is not on this list so our experienced Kansas City traffic defense lawyers in Missouri can be of assistance.

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