Mississippi State Laws and IID Requirements
In Mississippi, two terms are used to describe alcohol-related driving or vehicle operating offenses - driving under the influence (DUI) and operating while intoxicated (OWI). The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit in Mississippi is .08 percent, and for each, a first offense can lead to consequences like up to 48 hours in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and a 120-day license suspension. Some drivers may be able to regain their driving privileges sooner if they install an ignition interlock device. They may be able to get back on the road during their suspension period if they meet criteria.
The MS Ignition Interlock Program
Mississippi allows qualified drivers to regain their driving privileges after a DUI conviction if they agree to install an ignition interlock device. They are eligible for the Interlock Restricted license if they do this and meet other criteria.
What Happens if I Get a DUI in Mississippi?
First DUI Offense
- Up to 48 hours of jail time
- Up to $1,000 fine
- 120 days license suspension
- IID required to regain driving privileges
Second DUI Offense
- Up to six months in jail
- Up to $1,500 fine
- One year license suspension
- IID required to get interlock restricted license
Third DUI Offense
- One to five years in jail
- Up to $5,000 fine
- License suspended for up to three years
- IID required to regain driving privileges
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What Happens if I Get a DUI in Mississippi?
In MS, there are increasing penalties for each offense, and penalties may also increase depending on the specifics of the incident. If an offender refuses to take a BAC test or field sobriety test, they will have their license suspended for at least 90 days.
Anyone caught for DUI for a third time risks considerable penalties. They include one to five years in jail, fines up to $5,000 and a license suspension of up to three years. Those caught a fourth time may have their license suspended for up to 10 years. Three-time offenders may be eligible for a restricted license if they install an IID from an approved provider, like ADS. Ignition interlock devices must meet state requirements, so an approved provider is necessary.
How Do I Get an Interlock Restricted License in Mississippi?
In Mississippi, offenders can regain driving privileges if they agree to install an ignition interlock device from an approved provider. They may be required to serve part of the suspension period before they qualify.
- Install an ignition interlock device from an approved provider
- Have the court send a copy of the DUI ticket with the information needed to get a restricted license for the suspension period
- Contact the Department of Public Services DUI department before going to get your license to ensure documents were received and entered into the system
- Pay any applicable fines and complete required community service or treatment programs
Some drivers may have additional requirements depending on the circumstances, but this is the general criteria that applies to every driver.
ADS MS Interlock Devices
Interlock restricted licenses of course require an IID, which must be installed by an approved provider. ADS and our partner network are approved in Mississippi, so you can be confident the ADS device will meet state criteria.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device?
Ignition interlocks are small devices installed inside your vehicle that:
- Won’t let you start your vehicle if you have alcohol in your system
- Randomly requests retests of your Breath Alcohol Content (BrAC) while you’re driving to prevent device tampering and drunk driving
How Long is an MS Interlock Device Required?
This depends on the statute, the number of offenses on the driver’s record, and if there were aggravating factors to the DUI offense. It can vary, but the court should clarify at sentencing. If you have questions, ADS state specialists can help.
Ignition Interlock Cost in Mississippi
Offenders are responsible for the cost of ignition interlock device installation and rental. The devices are leased and not purchased outright.
How Much Does an IID Cost?
It may depend on what device is required. Currently, an ADS interlock device would cost between $2.50 and $3.50 a day.
Ignition Interlock Installation in Mississippi
Thanks to the ADS partner network, we have more installation locations than any other provider in Mississippi. Find an installation location near you. Installation technicians will go over how the device works and ensure you understand. You will need to return for calibration, so keep that in mind when selecting your service center location.
Readers of this website should contact their attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter. Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation.