Ignition Interlock Laws in Kentucky

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DUI Laws in Kentucky

DUI and ignition interlock device (IID) regulations vary significantly across the United States, reflecting a patchwork of state-specific approaches to addressing impaired driving. Each state has different criteria for the installation of IIDs for DUI offenders, the duration of IID installation, procedures for IID removal, and penalties for tampering with the device. To ensure compliance with local laws, it is crucial to check with your state officials and continue reading relevant resources on the webpage for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

What to Know
  • ​DUI suspension periods have changed. Before SB 85, courts selected the suspension time from a date range based on the offense. As of July 1, 2020, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) will administer a static suspension time based on the type of conviction. 
  • ​If the individual decides to enroll in the KIIP, they are eligible for a reduction of their suspension period. An ignition interlock license will restrict the individual to operating only a motor vehicle or motorcycle equipped with a functioning ignition interlock device. To qualify for the suspension reduction program, participants must be violation-free for 90 or 120 consecutive days, based on their offense.

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Administrative License Revocation (ALR) Procedures

If you’re facing a DUI offense in Kentucky, understanding the legal requirements and how to restore your driving privileges is essential. Guardian is here to help you through the process, from understanding Kentucky’s DUI laws to meeting the steps necessary to get back behind the wheel legally.

If you’ve recently failed or refused a breath test in Kentucky, you have a critical 7-day window from your arrest date to request an administrative hearing. Missing this deadline, or having an unfavorable result, can lead to a license suspension, with the duration depending on any prior offenses.

Judicial Procedures

After a court sentence—whether through a plea or trial—you’ll need to address both administrative and judicial suspensions to regain your driving privileges. The court may also impose fines, potential jail time, or additional conditions. Kentucky offers specialized DUI Courts focused on treatment and preventing future offenses. For more information on these alternatives, visit our DUI Courts page.

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Offense #(Required)

License Revocation, Fines, and Jail in Kentucky

The DUI penalties within a 10-year period are as follows:

First Offense

30 days of alcohol or substance abuse program and 6-month license suspension

Second Offense

1 year of alcohol or substance abuse program and 18-month license suspension

Third Offense

1 year of alcohol or substance abuse program and 36-month license suspension

Fourth Offense

1 year of alcohol or substance abuse program and 60-month license suspension

Refused BAC Test

If a driver refuses to take a BAC test, the ruling will be determined based on the number of offenses listed above. 

Commercial

Outside of the 10-year period, those who carry a commercial driver’s license and are convicted of a DUI in any vehicle will be suspended for 1 year.

Guardian Interlock offers complete installation and monitoring of an ignition interlock device on a wide range of vehicles to help you maintain compliance with Kentucky driving restrictions.

  • The most affordable interlock solution
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  • Direct communication with the state monitoring authorities to reduce hassles and keep you in compliance with state reporting requirements
  • 24/7/365 customer service, so you’ve always got the support you need