Living with an IID Day to Day

Author: Dan Rhodes

Introduction

So, you survived the install day and your first drive. Congratulations, that was the hardest part. Now comes the routine, living with an ignition interlock device every day. The good news? Once you know what to expect, the IID becomes just another step in your start the car ritual, like buckling a seatbelt. You’ll be surprised how long it’ll take you to stop reaching for it after you get removed. lol

Starting the Car

Each time you start your car, the device will prompt you for a breath sample. It is quick and easy, a steady, consistent blow until the tone or screen tells you you are good. After a few days, it becomes second nature. Once the blowing becomes second nature, the hardest part is making sure your mouth is clean and clear before any test.

Rolling Retests

California law requires devices to prompt for random rolling retests. That beep while you are on the freeway might feel nerve wracking at first, but do not panic. Take a deep breath and remember you have 5 minutes to take the test. If you can safely provide a breath sample while driving go ahead and do so, or pull over if you feel more comfortable, just make sure to be safe. What you should not do is ignore it, missed retests get logged and can count as violations. These infractions can lead to extended time on the machine and with most providers an additional fee.

Avoiding False Positives

Nothing can derail your day faster than a surprise failed reading.

Common culprits include:

– Most mouthwashes, breath sprays, mints and chewing gum have some form of alcohol in them. Yes, chewing gum!

– Some energy drinks have the same sugar alcohols as gum.

– Fermenting foods like pizza dough or over ripe fruits can be just enough to tip the scales and cause a fail.

The simple fix? Rinse with water every time you test and wait 15 minutes after eating before blowing. Keep a bottle of water in your car, it is your best defense. While none of the above-mentioned items have enough alcohol to impair you, they have enough to sit in the pockets of your mouth and affect your BrAC. What I always tell my clients is, you could rinse your mouth with tequila and spit it out and it would have little to no effect on your abilities, but it would sure mess up a breathalyzer but only because there would still be residual alcohol in the tiny pockets we have in our mouths, same goes for all the things above. Long story short, quickly rinsing your mouth with water before each test is the best defense you have against false positives.

Daily Habits That Make It Easier

– Keep your IID mouthpiece clean. A quick rinse or wipe helps prevent errors. Make sure if your wipes are alcohol based you allow the complete dry time before using putting it back into the device.

– Carry a backup mouthpiece in case one gets dirty or damaged.

– Plan a couple extra minutes into your morning routine for the startup test. Colder climates take longer for most machines to warm up.

– If you share your car, make sure anyone who drives it understands how the device works and that they understand what’s at stake.

Dealing With Public Situations

Blowing into the IID at school pickup, in the office lot, or outside the grocery store might feel embarrassing. Here is the secret, most people are not paying attention, but also you can duck down and hide it a bit. If anyone does notice, a quick it is a safety feature usually ends the conversation. Remember, every clean test gets you closer to removal day.

Calibration Appointments

In California, you must return for calibration no longer than 60 days of the previous visit. Think of it like an oil change, short, routine, and necessary. Missing it can cause lockouts or extend your term, so do not put it off. Clear2Drive sends reminders so you never miss an appointment, and if you do we will make sure to continue to reach you because your program removal depends on it and that’s our goal… to get you to the finish line.

Staying Compliant

Your daily use matters as much as your installation. Every clean blow and every on time calibration is proof you are serious about finishing your program. That is what keeps you on track for removal and full license reinstatement.

How Clear2Drive Helps Day to Day

We do not just install and disappear. Clear2Drive supports you throughout your IID term with:

– 24/7 phone support if something goes wrong with your device

– Text and email reminders for calibration appointments

– Guidance if you get a violation notice or have questions about your logs

– Payment plans and assistance programs so money stress does not derail compliance

Summary

Living with an IID in California is not glamorous, but it does not have to be miserable either. With a little planning, a few smart habits, and support from Clear2Drive, your IID will become just another part of your day, and in short time a distant memory. The key is simple, stay consistent, stay compliant, and keep your eyes on the finish line.