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Question: I was arrested for DWI, where do I find information about ignition interlock?
Answer: First-time DWI offenders arrested at 0.16 alcohol-concentration level or above and second-time offenders can voluntarily enroll in the ignition interlock program to regain legal driving privileges. If they don't enroll, they face at least one year without a driver's license. Offenders with three or more offenses are required to use interlock for three to six years, or they will never regain driving privileges.
The law gives DWI offenders a chance to regain driving privileges by ensuring safe and legal driving through the use of the interlock device. Interlock users will regain full driving privileges immediately after the offense and enrollment into the program. This ensures they are driving with a valid license and are not a threat on the road.
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services Division administers the ignition interlock program, and you can contact them at dvs.ii@state.mn.us or (651) 296-2948 to enroll in the program. Information is also available at https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/programs/mn-ignition-interlock/Pages/default.aspx.
Interlock devices are installed near the steering wheel and connect to the engine. They require a driver to blow into a tube and provide a breath sample in order for the vehicle to start.
The vehicle will not start if the device detects an alcohol-concentration level of 0.02 or above. Interlocks require rolling re-tests after the initial test, but a failed test will not disable the vehicle while in motion for safety reasons. The device also has features to deter others from starting the vehicle for the intended user.
The ignition interlock program protects Minnesotans from the dangers of impaired driving by:
• Creating safer roads.
• Providing a way for offenders to obtain a valid driver’s license, addressing the problem of people driving without a valid license.
• Encouraging behavior modification and rehabilitation.
• Diminishing the possibility of a repeat DWI.
Question: I have a slow moving emblem for my vehicle. Can I use that when I am driving at normal speed limits or must I take that off?
Answer: Vehicles designed to operate at 35 miles per hour or less must display a slow-moving vehicle emblem. The use of this emblem is restricted to the slow-moving vehicles specified in state statute and its use on any other type of vehicle or stationary object on the highway is prohibited.
Vehicles that need the emblem
• Animal-drawn vehicles
• Motorized golf carts on designated roads
• Farm equipment (implements of husbandry)
• Road construction machinery and other slow machinery
Rules and exceptions
• Prohibition: You cannot use this sign on normal fast cars or stationary roadside objects.
• Fast towing exception: Empty towed farm equipment can move faster than 35 mph without taking the sign off.
• Construction exception: Vehicles actively working inside a marked construction zone do not need to display it.
Requirements for the emblem
• Design: It must be a fluorescent or illuminated red-orange triangle with a dark red reflective border.
• Visibility: It must be mounted so it can be seen from at least 600 feet to the rear, including when hit by headlights on low beam.
• Placement: It goes on the rear of the vehicle. If a primary vehicle tows another unit and shows the sign, the towed unit does not need a second sign.
You can avoid a ticket -- and a crash -- if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and always drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota Toward Zero Deaths.
If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson -- Minnesota State Patrol at 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester, MN 55901-5848, or reach him at Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us.