QUEENSLAND OFFENCES
ALCOHOL INTERLOCK
In QLD, the Alcohol Interlock Program applies if convicted of:
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Driving under the influence of alcohol.
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Drink driving with a BAC of 0.10 or more (recently lowered from 0.15).
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Failing to provide a blood/breath specimen.
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Dangerous driving under alcohol influence.
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Two or more drink driving offences within 5 years.
Participants must have an ‘I’ condition (for ‘interlock’) on their valid driver licence and install an approved interlock on a nominated vehicle for at least 12 months. Drivers are only permitted to operate vehicles equipped with an interlock under this condition.
Note: New program requirements are being introduced until the end of 2021. It's crucial to consult a professional for the latest information.
The Penalty
During the interlock period, no alcohol is allowed in your system while driving. An interlock device prevents vehicle operation if it detects a BAC over 0.02%. Under new QLD drink driving laws, opting out of installing an interlock means a 5-year driving ban post-disqualification. Driving without an interlock when required results in legal action, fines, and extended disqualification—3 months for a first offence, 6 months for subsequent ones. Offenders must restart the interlock program. Visit the QLD Government Website for updated drink driving reforms.
Can I Avoid An Interlock?
The interlock device is mandatory unless you apply for and are granted an exemption. You may be able to apply for an exemption if you:
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live in a remote location—outside a 150km radius from the nearest interlock installer’s place of business
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live on an island—not connected to the mainland by bridge, where there is no interlock installer and the island is not a non-exempt island. This does not apply if you live on any of these islands:
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Coochiemudlo Island
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Fraser Island
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Karragarra Island
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Lamb Island
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Macleay Island
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Magnetic Island
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North Stradbroke Island
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Orpheus Island
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Russell Island
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have a medical condition that stops you from providing the required volume of breath to operate the interlock.
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have extenuating circumstances that impact on your ability to reasonably use an interlock—these circumstances must cause you or your family severe hardship. An interlock exemption will not be granted if you are unable to install the interlock for employment or financial reasons.
Applying For An Exemption
You can make an application for an exemption up to 6 weeks before your DUI disqualification period ends.
The QLD Transport Interlock Exemption Information Sheet provides further information regarding an interlock exemption and what evidence you will require for the application.
Application made in person:
The application for an interlock exemption needs to be lodged at the closest QLD Transport location and must be lodged using the approved Interlock Exemption Application Form.
If your application relates to a medical condition you should attach any medical evidence supporting your condition and your application.
Application fees will be required at the time of lodgement.
Application made by mail:
You can send your exemption application form and cost (cheque or money order payable to the Department of Transportation and Main Roads) to:
Department of Transport and Main Roads Interlock Processing Unit GPO Box 1412 Brisbane QLD 4001