How to Prevent Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) Problems and What to Do If Issues Arise in Michigan
If your Michigan driver’s license has been revoked for two or more alcohol-related driving convictions within a seven-year period, the road back to legal driving often begins with a restricted license and a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID). This requirement is also common for drivers in Bay City, Midland, and Saginaw who are participating in sobriety court or convicted of Operating with a High BAC (“Super Drunk” offense).
What is a BAIID?
A BAIID is a small device connected to your vehicle’s ignition. It requires a clean breath sample before you can start your car and will prompt for rolling retests while you drive. Michigan currently approves six vendors to install these devices:
Alcolock MI, Inc.
Alcohol Detection Systems – ADS
Intoxalock
Draeger, Inc.
Smart Start Michigan
#1A Lifesaver of Michigan
Why BAIID Compliance Matters
The Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) takes BAIID violations seriously. Even small mistakes can result in your license being re-revoked or re-denied.
Minor violations include:
Three startup test failures after at least two months with the device
Missing a scheduled monitoring appointment by more than 7 days
Major violations include:
Failing or missing a rolling retest
Any new alcohol-related criminal charge
Tampering with or trying to bypass the device
Accumulating three minor violations in one monitoring period
Removing the BAIID without authorization
Driving a vehicle without a BAIID installed
10 Tips to Prevent BAIID Problems in Michigan
Never Leave the Car Running Unattended
A missed rolling retest is a major violation.
Watch for Rolling Retests Before Shutting Off the Engine
Provide the sample within 5 minutes of the request.
Keep Your Battery Charged
Dead batteries can cause device malfunctions. Always save tow/jumpstart receipts and submit them to the SOS.
Notify Your BAIID Company Before Repairs
Let them know the date, nature of repairs, and who is doing the work.
Document All Repairs
Keep signed receipts for any work, towing, or parts.
Submit Documentation Quickly
Email receipts and a notarized letter of explanation to MDOS-BAIIDDocumentation@michigan.gov within 5 days.
Avoid Eating or Drinking (Other Than Water) Before Tests
Mouthwash, cold medicine, and even some foods can cause false positives.
Get an Independent Alcohol Test if Needed
An ETG test within 24 hours can help prove sobriety after a failed reading.
Restrict Who Drives Your Vehicle
You are responsible for all BAIID activity, no matter who is behind the wheel.
Notify the State If You Change BAIID Providers
You have 7 days to submit the new installation certificate to the SOS.
What to Do If You Have a BAIID Violation
If you receive notice of a violation—or your device malfunctions—contact Triton Legal PLC immediately. Acting fast can mean the difference between keeping your restricted license and losing your driving privileges all over again.
At Triton Legal, we help clients in Bay City, Midland, Saginaw, and throughout Michigan:
Challenge wrongful BAIID violation reports
Prepare documentation for the Secretary of State
Represent you in driver’s license restoration hearings
Guide you through every step to stay compliant and keep driving legally
Don’t Risk Losing Your License Again
We know how important your license is to your job, your family, and your independence. One mistake doesn’t have to set you back years—if you act quickly.
Call Triton Legal today or contact us online for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and fight to keep you on the road.
