I already wrote about the general rules behind the ignition interlock in Chester County. Now, I want to talk about additional rules and exceptions. You will want to explore all options with your Chester County DUI lawyer to see if any apply.
Remember -- pursuant to rule on ignition interlocks, you will have it in your car for one year upon the restoration of your license. You will know if it is required of you by PennDOT’s Suspension Notice. To get the ignition interlock, PennDOT is responsible for publishing a list of approved ignition interlock devices where you can get it installed. You can find the list of approved systems in the Pennsylvania Bulletin. You will receive a restoration requirements letter 30 days prior to your restoration outlining how to get the ignition interlock. Also, remember that you are required to install an ignition interlock on every vehicle you own.
There is potential for an individual to get an economic hardship exemption from the ignition interlock that they may receive after a Chester County DUI. As I discussed, it could cost $1000 or more. The rule, under § 3805 (e), states,
(a) may apply to the department for a hardship exemption to the requirement that an ignition interlock system must be installed in each of the person's motor vehicles. Where the department determines that the applicant establishes that such a requirement would result in undue financial hardship, the department may permit the applicant to install an ignition interlock system on only one of the applicant's motor vehicles.
Your income must be below 200% of the poverty level to qualify.
There is also an employment exception. You have the opportunity, under § 3805 (f), to be able to drive a vehicle owned by your boss or company without having an ignition interlock. The purpose of this makes sense -- your prior Chester County DUI history should not financially impact your boss and/or their company.