"Ignition interlock device" is defined under Maine law as a device that connects a breath analyzer to a motor vehicle's ignition system. The analyzer monitors the concentration of alcohol in the breath of any person who attempts to start the motor vehicle by using the ignition system. The device prevents the vehicle from starting unless the person provides a breath sample with a concentration of alcohol that is below a preset level (typically .02). Additional random samples will be required periodically while the car is in motion to prevent the offender from getting a sober friend to start the vehicle.

The Secretary of State may reinstate the license of a person convicted of more than one OUI violation if the person satisfies all other conditions for license reinstatement and installs an ignition interlock device in the motor vehicle the person operates, under the following conditions:

A. The license of a person with 2 OUI offenses may be reinstated after 9 months of the suspension period has run if the person has installed for a period of 2 years an ignition interlock device approved by the Secretary of State in the motor vehicle the person operates.
B. The license of a person with 3 OUI offenses may be reinstated after 3 years of the suspension period has run if the person has installed for a period of 3 years an ignition interlock device approved by the Secretary of State in the motor vehicle the person operates.
C. The license of a person with 4 or more OUI offenses may be reinstated after the expiration of the period of suspension if the person has installed for a period of 4 years an ignition interlock device approved by the Secretary of State in the motor vehicle the person operates.

The cost of installation of the IID as well as the monthly payments for maintenance and calibration must be paid by the offender.

Persons required to install an IID are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle without an ignition interlock device and from tampering with, disconnecting or disabling an IID or circumventing the operation of an IID. Violation of these prohibitions is a Class E crime that carries a penalty of not less than 7 days in jail and not less than $500.

A person required to install an IID may not request or solicit another person to blow into or otherwise activate an ignition interlock device for the purpose of providing the person with an operable motor vehicle. A person may not rent, lease or lend a motor vehicle without an IID to another person the person knows or should know is restricted to the operation of a motor vehicle with an ignition interlock device. A sober friend may not blow into or otherwise activate an IID for the purpose of providing a person restricted to the operation of a motor vehicle with an IID with an operable motor vehicle. It is unlawful for a person to attempt to tamper with or circumvent the operation of an IID.