Ignition interlock permits — Illinois Permit Test

Ignition interlock permits on the Illinois permit test — 4 rules, each with the reason behind it and a question on it while it is fresh.

The rules

A first-time DUI offender may apply for a Monitoring Device Driving Permit, which requires a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device on their vehicle during the statutory summary suspension.

The permit is how a first offender keeps driving to work. The device is the condition, and it tests the driver before the engine starts.

Any eligible Illinois driver who is a first-time DUI offender may apply for a Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP). An MDDP requires a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) to be installed on their vehicle(s) at an approved installation site as a condition of driving relief during a statutory summary suspension period.

Illinois Rules of the Road 2026, p.50

Unless declared indigent, a DUI offender pays all the costs of issuing the permit and of installing and monitoring the interlock device.

The permit is a privilege bought back, not a service provided. The costs run for the whole of the suspension.

Unless declared indigent, the DUI offender is responsible for all costs associated with issuance of a permit and installation and monitoring of the BAIID.

Illinois Rules of the Road 2026, p.50

The interlock device alerts the Secretary of State if the driver tries to start the vehicle after drinking or tampers with the device.

The device is not just a lock, it is a witness. Every attempt is reported whether or not the engine started.

The BAIID will alert the Secretary of State’s office if the driver attempts to start the vehicle after drinking alcohol or tampers with the device.

Illinois Rules of the Road 2026, p.50

A first-time DUI offender who chooses not to take the permit and is then caught driving during the suspension is guilty of a felony.

Declining the device is allowed, and driving anyway is not. The offense jumps straight to a felony.

If a DUI offender chooses not to participate in the program and is subsequently caught driving a vehicle during the suspension period, they are guilty of a felony.

Illinois Rules of the Road 2026, p.50

On the test

What does an Illinois Monitoring Device Driving Permit require on the vehicle?

A Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device. The permit is how a first offender keeps driving to work. The device is the condition, and it tests the driver before the engine starts. Illinois Rules of the Road 2026, p.50: “Any eligible Illinois driver who is a first-time DUI offender may apply for a Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP). An MDDP requires a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) to be installed on their vehicle(s) at an approved installation site as a condition of driving relief during a statutory summary suspension period.”

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Where these come from

Every rule here is checked against Illinois Rules of the Road 2026, published by the Illinois Secretary of State, and against the state code itself. Last checked 2026-09-21.