Back to Blog

Obtaining a camera along with an ignition interlock device may be required, depending on your state’s ignition interlock laws. If a state or county requires a camera along with the ignition interlock device, RoadGuard ignition interlock devices are equipped with this feature. The camera can be mounted on any vehicle.

The purpose of the camera is to document the identity of the person using the ignition interlock device. Typically, the camera is mounted on the windshield and captures the images of the person required to use an ignition interlock device. Images are stored, captured, and supplied to monitoring authorities as needed depending on your state’s ignition interlock program requirements.

Our qualified technicians will install the camera and show you how to use it correctly to prevent an ignition interlock camera violation.

How the Ignition Interlock Camera works

Images from ignition interlock device cameras can prove who is testing his or her breath alcohol. The camera will only take an image when the driver uses the ignition interlock device. Drivers should never move or disrupt the view of the camera. Violations, such as moving the ignition interlock camera, could be a reportable violation depending on your state’s interlock program.

So, How Does the Camera Work on a Interlock?

Interlock camera pictures will be recorded of the individual taking the test. You can allow friends and family members to use your car, but they will have to learn how to use the ignition interlock device, and they will be photographed.

Interlock camera pictures and the ignition interlock device cannot be manipulated. Since the camera only works when the ignition interlock device is used, it does not photograph the driver while the vehicle is in operation. It will photograph a driver who pulls over to the side of the road for a retest.

Why Cameras May Become the New Standard

In 2013, Washington became the first state to require the camera, according to this article the camera “automatically takes a snapshot of the driver whenever a sample is required”. Iowa may soon be one of the next state’s to require the camera as part of the ignition interlock program for repeat drunk drivers. The list of states now requiring cameras with the device continues to grow.

Camera-equipped ignition interlock devices were required in 20 other states as of 2018. Hawaii and Florida, along with Oregon and other states, now have this requirement according to page 15 in the Traffic Safety Trends from the National Conference of State Legislatures. This document details some of the regulations for DUI offenders in different states and when the camera is required along with the device.

RoadGuard makes a camera unit for our ignition interlock devices. Cameras may not be offered in all areas, so contact us to see if the camera is an option for you.

According to a recent article from MADD, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, there is a very high public approval for any device that keeps drunk drivers off of the road.

If you are embarrassed and wonder “how to hide an ignition interlock camera,” there is no need to worry. RoadGuard ignition interlock devices and cameras are easy to use and discreet. Living with an ignition interlock device with a camera shows that driving safely with an ignition interlock camera is much better than an ignition interlock camera violation. You are taking responsibility and ensuring that you will never drink and drive again.

We are committed to making the roads safer. If you need an ignition interlock device with the latest technology requirements, you can trust RoadGuard. Contact us today!

*Links to any third-party websites herein are provided for your reference and convenience only. RoadGuard did not create nor develop, and does not own, any such third-party websites. RoadGuard does not endorse nor support the content of, nor any opinions stated in, any such third-party website links. RoadGuard is not responsible for the content of any third-party website or its accuracy or reliability. Nothing contained in this article or in any such third-party website shall be considered legal advice or be deemed to constitute legal advice. For any legal advice concerning a DUI arrest, charge, conviction or consequences thereof, you should contact an attorney of your choice.