The Ignition Interlock law went in to effect on June 17, 2006. It mandates an ignition interlock license and the installation of the device for anyone, in the state of New Mexico, convicted of a DWI. This includes first time DWI offenders.

Once installed in the vehicle driven by the offender, he or she must blow into the ignition interlock device every time to start the vehicle. If the offender has had any alcohol, the device will record the driver’s blood alcohol content. The ignition interlock prevents the vehicle from starting if it registers a BAC greater than .025, thus preventing a person from driving intoxicated.

For the DWI offender, the only way to drive legally is to get an ignition interlock license, proof of insurance, and to get a device installed. If that person is caught driving a vehicle without an interlock device, the penalty is the same as driving while revoked (see penalties).

For information regarding Ignition Interlock in New Mexico, visit the DWI resources page.