Effective January1, 2010, a new law requires first-time DUI offenders who are eligible for driving relief during their statutory summary suspension period to obtain and install a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) on their vehicles.
In order to apply for driving relief, the court must first order a Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP) for the offender. A BAIID will then be installed on the offender's vehicle and confirmation will be made to the Secretary of State's office. The MDDP and installation of the BAIID allow an offender to drive anywhere, at anytime as long as the offender is driving a vehicle with a BAIID installed. The Secretary of State's office monitors the BAIID throughout the duration of the permit and will be alerted if the driver attempts any incidents of driving under the influence or tampering with the device.
A DUI offender may choose not to participate in the BAIID program and choose instead to refrain from driving during the suspension period. However, should the offender choose not to participate in the program and is subsequently caught driving during the suspension, the offender is guilty of a Class 4 felony and subject to one to three years of imprisonment and an extension of the suspension period. Additionally, an offender who participates in the BAIID program but is subsequently caught driving a vehicle that is not installed with a BAIID device is guilty of a Class 4 felony.