Prevention :

In 2005, New Mexico became the first state in the nation to mandate an ignition interlock license and the installation of the device for anyone convicted of DWI.

• Once installed in the vehicle driven by the offender, the offender must blow into the ignition interlock device every time he/she starts the vehicle.
• If the offender has had any alcohol, the device will record the driver’s blood alcohol content.
• The ignition interlock prevents the vehicle from starting if it registers a BAC greater than .025, thus preventing a driver from driving intoxicated.
• How does an offender go about getting one of these devices? Upon conviction, the judge directs you to a list of providers available at the court office. However, an offender must obtain an Ignition Interlock License first. Then visit a provider or vendor to have the device installed.
• How does an offender get a license? The offender fills out an application that is processed through the Motor Vehicle Division. The Ignition Interlock license allows you to drive legally, although the status of your license is still revoked.
• What if it’s your first offense? It doesn’t matter. The law applies to anyone convicted of DWI. The new law eliminates the “limited license” which allowed drivers revoked for the first time only to drive legally after 30 days without an interlock.
• What if you don’t get an ignition interlock installed? The only way to drive legally is to get an ignition interlock license, proof of insurance, and to get a device installed. If not, you’re in violation and the penalty for driving without an interlock is the same as driving while revoked.
• What is the penalty for a revoked license?
  Interlocks serve as a probation officer in the front seat; it’s on duty 24 hours per day. The device tests a driver’s blood alcohol content an average of 7 times per day. It generates a report of all violations that goes to the court. And, it costs only $2.30 per day (less than one drink per day).