Alcohol ignition interlocks
Getting an interlock
How interlocks work
An interlock is a device that is connected to a vehicle's ignition. To start the vehicle, the driver must provide a breath sample. The vehicle only starts if no alcohol is detected. A random breath sample may be requested during a journey.
The interlock has a camera that takes photos which are used to monitor the driver’s use of the interlock including:
- a reference photo when the interlock is first installed; and
- a photo each time a breath sample is provided
It is important that the camera can take a clear image of the person providing the breath sample to the interlock. If the camera is blocked or obscured in any way and the interlock detects alcohol, your time in the interlock program can be extended.
The interlock records data including:
- a reference photo when the interlock is installed
- photos that are taken
- all breath sample results (including when the vehicle doesn't start)
- when the vehicle is used
- interlock service information.
This data will be sent to us as authorised by the Transport Operations Road Use Management Act 1995 to help administer the interlock program.
Note: A vehicle with an interlock installed can be driven by others, such as family members. Whoever is driving will need to provide breath samples to the interlock and have their photo taken to start and continue driving the vehicle.
Your interlock provider will give you training on how to use the interlock.
Before using an interlock to provide a breath sample, you should:
- wash your hands thoroughly
- drink water.
In the 15 minutes before providing a breath sample, do not:
- eat or drink anything except water
- smoke or use a vaping device
- use perfume, cologne or hand sanitiser
- use windshield washer fluid, disinfectants or aerosol air fresheners.
Getting an interlock installed
You will need to complete steps 1, 2 and 3 before you can drive.
Step 1: Wait for your disqualification period to end
- You can apply for your licence the day after your disqualification ends (or the date you are granted a restricted (work) licence).
- You may also need to complete a drink driving short course.
Step 2: Apply to get your driver licence
You will need to apply for your licence with an interlock condition at a transport and motoring customer service centre, a participating QGAP office or licence-issuing police station (in rural or remote areas of Queensland).
You will need to:
- bring your evidence of identity
- if needed, bring a medical certificate stating you are fit to drive from your doctor
- pay the interlock condition fee plus the licence fee.
You will be issued with a receipt for a probationary licence with code 'I'. This will be your licence until you receive your physical card in the mail. If you have signed up to get emails we will email you when your licence is posted and send you a reminder when it's due to be renewed.
Your interlock must be installed before you drive.
Step 3: Get an interlock installed
After you get your licence you will need to have an interlock installed in the vehicle you want to drive. You cannot drive the vehicle to get the interlock installed—you will need to arrange to have someone else drive the vehicle for you. If you don’t own the vehicle that you want to drive, you must get permission from the owner to install the interlock.
Find an approved interlock provider and make an appointment to get your interlock installed. You will need to pay all installation costs. You can have an interlock on more than one vehicle if needed.
There are different types of interlocks available and the way they operate can differ. Before fitting an interlock, we recommend you check with each approved interlock provider to help decide which interlock is best for you.
Vehicle nomination
At your appointment you will be asked to nominate which vehicle/s you want an interlock installed in. Your interlock provider will tell us which vehicle/s you nominate. You can only drive the vehicle/s you have nominated.