Alcohol Interlock Laws QLD (Queensland Alcohol Interlock Program)

The Queensland Alcohol Interlock Laws form part of the State Government’s strategy to reduce repeat drink driving offences and improve road safety. An alcohol ignition interlock is a device installed in a motor vehicle that prevents it from starting until the driver provides a zero-alcohol breath sample.

Video: Understanding the Queensland Alcohol Interlock Program

1. When Is an Interlock Required?

Under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management – Driver Licensing) Regulation 2021 (Qld), drivers are required to participate in the Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program if convicted of:

• Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol;
• A drink driving offence with a BAC of 0.100 or higher;
• Failing to provide a breath or blood specimen for analysis;
• Dangerous driving while affected by alcohol; or
• Two or more drink driving offences within a 5-year period.

For professional advice, contact Boorman Lawyers – QLD Drink Driving Lawyers.

2. Duration and Licence Conditions

Once convicted, you must hold a licence with an ‘I’ condition (for interlock) and maintain an approved interlock in your chosen vehicle for a minimum of 12 months. Refusing to install the interlock means you will be disqualified from driving for an additional two years beyond your court disqualification.

3. Driving With an Interlock Fitted

Only vehicles fitted with an approved interlock can be driven by a person holding a licence with an ‘I’ condition. The driver must register a zero BAC before the engine starts. Family members may also drive the vehicle, provided they blow a zero reading. The system automatically logs all test results to prevent circumvention.

4. Steps to Enter the Alcohol Interlock Program

1. Apply for a restricted licence: After your disqualification ends, attend a TMR Customer Service Centre to reissue your licence with an ‘I’ condition.
2. Arrange installation: Contact an approved provider such as Draeger Safety Pacific Pty Ltd or Guardian Interlock Systems. Costs include installation, monthly rental, servicing and removal.
3. Nominate your vehicle: Complete the official Vehicle Nomination Form (F4841) and, if using a company vehicle, obtain employer consent for installation.

5. Alcohol Interlock Exemptions in Queensland

You may be eligible for an exemption if you:

• Live more than 150 km from the nearest approved installer;
• Reside on certain islands (e.g., Coochiemudlo, Fraser, or Magnetic Islands);
• Have a verified medical condition preventing you from providing a breath sample; or
• Would suffer extreme hardship due to unique mitigating circumstances.

However, exemptions are not granted for employment inconvenience or financial reasons alone.

6. Applying for an Interlock Exemption

You can apply for an exemption up to six weeks before your disqualification ends. Submit your application at your nearest Department of Transport and Main Roads office or post to:

Interlock Processing Unit
GPO Box 1412, Brisbane QLD 4001

Include supporting documents such as medical certificates or hardship evidence and pay the prescribed application fee. Forms and further details are available from Queensland Government – Alcohol Interlock Program.

7. Government Financial Assistance

Financial assistance may be available if you:

• Hold an ‘I’ condition licence or have a pending interlock application;
• Are an Australian citizen or permanent resident;
• Meet the income and asset limits for the means test; and
• Have not received similar assistance in the past five years.

For full eligibility criteria, contact the Department of Transport and Main Roads directly.

8. Legal Assistance with Interlock Issues

At Boorman Lawyers, our Queensland Traffic Lawyers specialise in all aspects of DUI and alcohol interlock compliance. We represent clients in the Magistrates Courts across QLD — from Gold Coast and Brisbane to Cairns.