Ignition interlock deviceBrussels
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249. Ignition interlock device
An ignition interlock device, also called an alcohol interlock or alcolock, is a breath-testing device connected to a vehicle’s ignition system. Before the vehicle can be started, the driver must provide a breath sample below a programmed alcohol limit. The device may also require additional tests during a journey and can record information about tests, failed attempts and possible tampering. Ignition interlocks are used in some countries as a safety measure or legal requirement for drivers convicted of alcohol-related offences.
Wikimedia.org • Spielvogel • CC0
What is an alcohol interlock in Belgium?
An alcohol interlock is a breath-testing device connected to the vehicle. A driver subject to an alcohol-interlock programme can only start the vehicle after providing a breath sample below the required alcohol limit.
What alcohol limit does a Belgian alcohol interlock use?
The vehicle can only be started after a breath test showing less than 0.09 mg/l of alcohol in exhaled breath, corresponding to less than approximately 0.2‰ alcohol in the blood.
🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian Road Traffic Act61quinquies — interlock programme threshold below0.09mg/l
When can a Belgian court impose an alcohol interlock?
A court can impose an alcohol interlock for the specified offences, including the higher alcohol-concentration offence beginning at 0.8‰ in blood or 0.35 mg/l in breath, drunken driving and relevant repeat offences. At still higher concentrations and for specified repeat convictions, the law provides additional mandatory rules, subject to its stated conditions and exceptions.

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