Renting a car isn’t usually a big deal until you have a DUI. It’s a little harder to move on and do your regular thing for business or a spontaneous weekend getaway in the aftermath of a drunk driving conviction, especially when you have an ignition interlock (car breathalyzer) requirement. Even renting a car becomes more difficult and you may have to pass on your plans until you’re able to drive without the device.
In states like Vermont, there are explicit guidelines for rental cars and ignition interlock devices. You cannot drive any vehicle, whether a rented car, one your bestie loaned you, or your own vehicle without the device installed and operable. It isn’t very common to find a rental car that is already ignition interlock equipped, either, making your search for a compliant vehicle more of a wild goose chase than anything.
Once you are eligible for an ignition interlock device, your state will issue your restricted license with an interlock designation. This is so law enforcement and anyone needing information about your ability to drive will be able to see that you’re only supposed to drive with the device. Since you have to have the permission of the owner of a vehicle to install an interlock, you’d have to have the permission of the rental company – most of which won’t rent a car to anyone with a restricted license, anyway.
All states have some sort of guidelines for rental car agencies and/or restricted driver’s licenses. The odds are that you will have a much more difficult time renting a car with an ignition interlock than you would come up with a different plan for business travel or your weekend getaway. Instead, let someone else take the wheel and enjoy your time as a passenger without risking more trouble on the road and your freedom to drive your own vehicle once you get back home.
Car Inspections with an Ignition Interlock