Having a restriction J on your Nevada driver’s license means that you are restricted to operating vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device. An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer that is connected to the ignition system of a vehicle. In order to start the vehicle, you must provide a breath sample that shows you have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) below a preset limit, usually 0.02 or 0.04 BAC.
Why would someone have a restriction J?
In Nevada, restriction J is placed on your license if you have been convicted of a DUI (driving under the influence) offense. It is a requirement for reinstating your driving privileges after a DUI suspension or revocation. The length of time you must drive with an ignition interlock device varies based on the number of prior DUI convictions:
- First DUI offense – 12 months
- Second DUI offense – 24 months
- Third DUI offense – 36 months
So if you have been convicted of a first-time DUI, your license will show restriction J for 1 year. For a second DUI, it will show for 2 years, and a third DUI results in 3 years with an interlock device.
Getting an ignition interlock installed
In order to get your license reinstated with a restriction J, you must have a certified ignition interlock device installed in any vehicle you operate. The installation must be done by a state-approved interlock provider. Some steps for getting set up with an interlock include:
- Select a state-approved interlock company and contact them to schedule your installation appointment.
- Bring your vehicle to the installer to have the ignition interlock device put in. The device is wired into your ignition system and includes a mouthpiece for breath samples.
- Receive training on how to properly operate the device. You’ll need to provide breath samples before starting the car and periodic samples while driving.
- Pay installation and monthly maintenance fees to the interlock company. The cost varies by provider but expect around $70+ per month.
- Have the installer send proof of installation to the DMV. This allows them to reinstate your license with a restriction J.
How does an ignition interlock device work?
An ignition interlock has several key features:
- Mouthpiece – This is where you blow into providing a breath sample. It analyzes your BAC through either a fuel cell or semiconductor sensor.
- Keypad – Allows you to input data like driver ID before starting the vehicle.
- Display – Shows you prompts for providing samples and gives pass/fail results.
- Camera – Takes photos during breath samples to verify the driver providing the sample.
- Data logger – Records all activity including samples, passes, fails, and any attempts to circumvent the device.
In order to start the vehicle, you need to blow into the device mouhtpiece providing a clean breath sample under the preset BAC limit. If you fail, the device will prevent the car from starting for a period of time before allowing a re-test. Periodic rolling re-tests are also required while driving.
Driving with a restriction J – what to expect
Here are some things to be prepared for when driving with an ignition interlock with a restriction J:
- Blow tests are required before starting the engine, typically within 5-15 minutes of turning it off, and random rolling re-tests while driving.
- The re-test interval varies by state, but ranges from every 30-90 minutes.
- You have a short time window (about 5 minutes) to provide a passing sample for each test.
- Failing tests or missing the time limit will activate warnings and may prevent the vehicle from restarting.
- The device records all activity, including failed tests, missed tests, and attempts to tamper/circumvent it.
- You are responsible for paying the monthly service fees and arranging calibration appointments every 30-60 days.
It takes some adjusting to driving with the device. But as long as you remain sober while driving and follow proper protocols, it should not impede normal vehicle operation.
Getting the interlock removed
To have restriction J and the ignition interlock requirement removed from your license, you must complete the mandated time period and fulfill all requirements, which include:
- Not attempting to remove, tamper with, or circumvent the interlock device.
- Providing consistent passing breath samples when prompted by the device.
- Not registering any failures or violations during your mandated time period.
- Completing the minimum mandated period with the device – 12 months, 24 months, or 36 months depending on your offense.
- Paying all service fees to the interlock company.
- Providing proof of completion to the DMV, such as a completion report from the interlock company.
Once you satisfy these requirements, you can schedule removal of the device with your interlock provider. They will uninstall it from your vehicle and give you final documentation. The DMV will then lift restriction J from your license so you can resume driving without the device.
Consequences of violating restriction J
It is crucial to follow all ignition interlock rules and refrain from tampering with the device. Circumventing or attempting to circumvent the interlock device will lead to serious consequences such as:
- Having your license revoked and interlock period reset – You’ll have to start over your mandated time with the device.
- Extended time with the interlock restriction.
- Fines up to $500.
- Possible jail time for repeat offenders.
Provide every sample as required, be sure not to drink and drive, and never try to remove or disable the device early. Completing your mandated time period without violations is essential to removing the restriction J and getting back regular driving privileges.
Summary of Nevada’s restriction J requirements
Below is a quick summary of key facts about Nevada’s restriction J for ignition interlock devices:
- Required for a period of 1-3 years after a DUI conviction to reinstate license
- Must have a certified device installed by approved provider
- Blow tests required before starting vehicle and rolling re-tests while driving
- Restriction removed after completing mandated time period
- Tampering with device results in fines, jail time, and license revocation
Having restriction J reinstates driving privileges for those convicted of DUI. But it also serves as an important safety measure to prevent drunk driving during a period of high risk. Completing the interlock requirement responsibly helps ensure you don’t re-offend in the future.
Conclusion
Restriction J is a critical part of Nevada’s approach to improve public safety and reduce drunk driving recidivism for DUI offenders. While driving with an ignition interlock device takes some adjustment, it allows individuals to retain limited driving privileges so they can commute to work, school, or other necessities. If you’ve been convicted of a DUI, it’s important to comply with the interlock requirement to get your license back. Responsible completion of restriction J gets you back on the road safely.