Hardship License/Ignition Interlock

I have been granted a hardship license in conjunction with the installation of an ignition interlock device. What do I do?

Please click on the attached file: hardship license/ignition interlock instructions for information about a hardship license and ignition interlock devices. A hardship license in conjunction with the installation of an ignition interlock device may be granted by a sentencing court pursuant to RIGL 31-27-2.8(b)(7).

Please be advised that if you have been granted a hardship license in conjunction with the installation of an ignition interlock device by the sentencing court, you must immediately report this information to the Adjudication Office of the Division of Motor Vehicles to have the appropriate restrictions added to your driver's license. Failure to report in a timely manner may result in the motorist having to return to the sentencing court to explain the delay in reporting.

Hardship License Instructions PDF file, less than 1

Ignition Interlock Systems

The following companies are currently certified in Rhode Island to lease, sell and install ignition interlock systems. Each provider markets a different device and each has their own fees and policies. Listed below is the contact information for each of these companies.

#1 A LifeSafer of Rhode Island
Phone: 1-800-634-3077
Device Manufacturer: #1 A LifeSafer Inc

Device Model #: FC100
Certification Expiration: 1/31/2024

Device Model #: L250
Certification Expiration: 1/31/2024

1A Smart Start, LLC
Phone: 1-844-357-9273
Device Manufacturer: Smart Start Inc.

Device Model #: SSI 20/20
Certification Expiration: 3/31/2024

Device Model #: SSI 20/30
Certification Expiration: 3/31/2024

Device Model #: SSI 20/35
Certification Expiration: 3/31/2024

Device Model #: SSI FLEX
Certification Expiration: 3/31/2024

Alcohol Detection Systems
Phone: 833-386-1326
Device Manufacturer: Alcohol Detection Systems Technology

Device Model #: Determinator 1 DM-904
Certification Expiration: 6/30/2024

Device Model #: Determinator 2 DM-909
Certification Expiration: 6/30/2024

Guardian Interlock
Phone: 1-800-485-9266
Device Manufacturer: Guardian Interlock

Device Model #: AMS 2500
Certification Expiration: 1/31/2024

Intoxalock
Phone: 833-210-8203
Device Manufacturer: Consumer Safety Technology, LLC

Device Model #: 1001A
Certification Expiration: 3/31/2024

Low Cost Interlock
Phone: 1 (844) 494-7782
Device Manufacturer: Low Cost Interlock

Device Model #: LCI-777
Certification Expiration: 4/30/2024

Sens-O-Lock of America
Phone: 401-406-3777
Device Manufacturer: B.E.S.T. Labs Inc

Device Model #: FR9000
Certification Expiration: 11/30/2023

Device Model #: WC9000+
Certification Expiration: 11/30/2023

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Hardship Licenses and Ignition Interlock Devices

What is an Ignition Interlock System?

An ignition interlock device (IID), many times referred to as a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID), is slightly larger than a cell phone and is wired to the vehicle's ignition. These devices can generally be installed quickly. After installation it will require your breath sample before the engine will start. If the ignition interlock detects alcohol on your breath the engine will not start. As you drive the device will periodically require additional breath samples to insure the absence of alcohol in your system.

Can Ignition Interlock Systems prevent drunk driving?

It will not prevent all impaired driving but if used consistently it will lead to a substantial reduction in the rate of repeat drunk driving offenders. Ignition interlocks work best when combined with other drunk driving prevention programs.

When and how are they used?

Anyone can have an ignition interlock system installed on their vehicle. Parents may install a system to insure the safety of the young drivers in the family or a court may require one to be installed on any vehicle that someone convicted of a DWI drives.

Is there a fee for the hardship license?

Yes. If you have been granted a hardship license from the sentencing court you must have an ignition interlock device installed in conjunction with the hardship license. The Division of Motor Vehicles imposes a $100.00 fee, pursuant to RIGL 31-49-2, for the ignition interlock device restriction. This fee is in addition to any fees charged by the ignition interlock provider. The motorist will also be charged a fee of $27.50 to obtain an updated driver's license indicating the hardship license and ignition interlock device restrictions.

Who can install an ignition interlock device?

Only an installer licensed by one of the approved providers listed above may install and monitor the approved interlock device. Please contact one of these providers to coordinate the installation process.

Can I get a hardship license without an ignition interlock device?

No. A hardship license is only granted in conjunction with the installation of an ignition interlock device.

Can I get a hardship license for any license suspension or just an alcohol-related license suspension?

In accordance with RIGL 31-27-2.8(b)(7), a hardship license can only be granted during periods of license suspension for certain alcohol-related offenses. Please refer to the sentence imposed by the court to see if you have been granted a hardship license.