Michigan Ignition Interlock (BAIID) Requirements After License Restoration

In most Michigan driver’s license restoration cases following multiple DUI revocations, restoration does not mean immediate, unrestricted driving. Instead, successful petitioners are typically granted a restricted driver’s license that requires the use of a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) for a minimum period, usually one year.

Understanding how ignition interlock requirements work, and what driving is legally permitted during this period, is essential to avoiding violations that can jeopardize restoration.

Restricted Licenses and Ignition Interlock Are the Default Outcome

When the Michigan Secretary of State grants a license restoration under Rule 13, the usual result is a restricted license conditioned on the installation and proper use of a BAIID.

This structure reflects the Secretary of State’s continuing assessment of risk. The restricted period functions as a monitoring phase, allowing limited driving while ensuring continued sobriety.

Immediate full licensure is uncommon in multiple-offense cases.

What Is a BAIID?

A Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device is a breath-testing device installed in a vehicle that prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected. The device also requires rolling retests while the vehicle is in operation.

BAIID data is monitored, and violations can trigger administrative consequences, including extension of the interlock period or re-revocation.

Hearing officers view compliance with ignition interlock requirements as a forward-looking indicator of risk management. Violations are not treated as technical missteps, but as evidence bearing directly on relapse risk and judgment.

Statutory Limits on Restricted Driving

Michigan law specifies the purposes for which a restricted driver’s license may be used. These limits are set forth in MCL 257.304, which defines the scope of allowable restricted driving privileges following license revocation.

While the exact language appears in statute and administrative rules, restricted driving generally allows travel:

• to and from employment
• during the course of employment
• to and from education
• to and from medical treatment
• to and from court-ordered obligations
• to and from substance abuse treatment or support programs

Driving outside these purposes, even with a functioning BAIID, can constitute a violation.

This is a critical point often misunderstood by drivers.

One Vehicle, One Interlock Requirement

Restricted license holders are typically permitted to drive only vehicles equipped with a properly installed BAIID. Driving a non-equipped vehicle, even briefly or for an emergency, can result in serious consequences.

Likewise, allowing another person to drive the interlock-equipped vehicle in a way that generates violations can create problems for the license holder.

Common Interlock Violations That Cause Problems

Many post-restoration problems arise not from alcohol use, but from misunderstanding device requirements.

Common issues include missed rolling retests, improper startups, failed starts due to non-alcohol sources, and driving vehicles without an interlock installed.

BAIID violations are reviewed administratively and can lead to extension of the restricted period or re-revocation if not addressed properly.

Completing the Restricted Period Successfully

The restricted license and interlock period is not simply a waiting period. Compliance matters.

Clean interlock records, consistent use, and absence of violations are typically required before full driving privileges will be considered.

A strong compliance record during the interlock phase often determines whether full restoration is granted at the next stage.

How Ignition Interlock Fits into the Restoration Process

Ignition interlock is part of the broader restoration framework under Rule 13. It reflects the Secretary of State’s ongoing evaluation of sobriety and risk after restoration is granted.

For a complete overview of Michigan driver’s license restoration after multiple DUI revocations, including eligibility, evidence, and hearings, see our Michigan Driver’s License Restoration page.

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