NSW Mandatory Alcohol Interlock Program

Overview

The NSW Mandatory Alcohol Interlock Program commenced on 1 February 2015 and applies to certain drink driving offenders in New South Wales. The program is designed to reduce repeat drink driving by requiring eligible drivers to install an approved alcohol interlock device on their vehicle and complete the program under NSW rules.

In many cases, drivers convicted of serious or repeat drink driving offences must complete:

• a court-ordered disqualification period, and
• a period in the Alcohol Interlock Program with an interlock condition on their NSW driver licence.

To enter the program, drivers generally need to complete the required disqualification period, attend a medical consultation, have an approved interlock device installed, and then apply through Service NSW for a NSW driver licence with an interlock condition.

The purpose of the program is to create a physical barrier between drinking and driving. The interlock device requires a breath sample before the vehicle can be started and may also require further breath tests while the vehicle is being driven.

Drink driving remains a major road safety issue in NSW. Alcohol can affect reaction time, judgment, coordination and concentration, increasing the risk of serious injury or death on the road.

After a big night out, alcohol can still remain in your system the next day. Alcohol can:

• slow reaction time and decision-making
• reduce your ability to judge speed and distance
• create a false sense of confidence
• make it harder to focus on more than one thing at a time
• affect coordination and balance
• cause drowsiness and increase the risk of falling asleep at the wheel.

This page provides general information about the NSW Mandatory Alcohol Interlock Program. If you need help with installation, servicing or understanding the next steps after your court period, contact Interlock Sydney for practical guidance.

Looking for practical guidance on violations, costs or early exit options? See our detailed NSW Alcohol Interlock Guide for Sydney Drivers.

Interlock re-tests and program support

Random re-tests during the NSW interlock program

Interlock devices may require a breath sample shortly after the vehicle starts and can also request additional breath samples at random times while you are driving. These re-tests are designed to help make sure the driver remains alcohol-free throughout the trip.

• You may be required to provide a breath sample soon after starting the vehicle.
• You may be required to provide more breath samples at random times while driving.
• You should always follow the instructions on the device whenever a re-test is requested.

Failed breath tests, missed tests or other compliance issues may affect your progress in the program. In NSW, participants may be referred for further review, including an Interlock Medical Examination, and some drivers may have their interlock period extended if program requirements are not met.