New Jersey DWI Attorney Blog
Understanding New Jersey’s “2-for-1” Ignition Interlock Credit in DWI Cases
New Jersey law imposes numerous penalties for driving while intoxicated (DWI). A conviction can result in fines, jail time, and driver’s license suspension. New Jersey no longer imposes an automatic license suspension after a DWI arrest, unless it’s a drug-based offense, or there is a conviction for refusal to submit to breath testing. The length of a driver’s license suspension after a DWI conviction depends on a person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and the number of prior DWI convictions. A driver convicted of DWI in New Jersey must install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle. A law that took effect in New Jersey in 2025 allows many people to reduce the length of their license suspension based on how long they have an IID installed in their vehicle. It is informally known as the “2 for 1 law,” because it reduces the driver’s license suspension period by one day for every two days a person has an IID in their vehicle.
What Is an Ignition Interlock Device?
An IID is a device that attaches to a motor vehicle’s steering column. It is essentially a breathalyzer that prevents the vehicle from starting if the driver’s BAC is over a certain amount. For people with DWI convictions, the BAC threshold is less than the “legal limit” of 0.08 percent.
Only a licensed installer may place an IID in a vehicle. The driver is responsible for paying the IID installation and rental fees. The court will order a person not to drive any vehicle except the one equipped with an IID. The person must provide the court with information about their primary vehicle, or attest that they do not own, lease, or have access to a vehicle. They must get a notation on their driver’s license stating that they must use an IID.
When Is an Ignition Interlock Device Mandatory?
The use of an IID is mandatory for anyone in New Jersey convicted of DWI who owns or operates a motor vehicle. For a first DWI offense in which a person’s BAC is at least 0.08 percent but less than 0.10 percent, state law imposes a driver’s license suspension for as long as it takes them to install an IID in their vehicle. If a person had a higher BAC or prior DWI convictions, they may be subject to a specific period of mandatory IID use.
What Is the 2-for-1 Credit?
A law passed by the New Jersey Legislature in March 2025 amends the DWI statute to allow some people with DWI convictions to reduce the length of their driver’s license suspensions by installing an IID device in their vehicles and obtaining a driver’s license with an IID notation. For every two days they keep the IID installed, the length of their license suspension will go down by one day.
The 2-for-1 credit is not available in certain convictions:
– DWI involving “a narcotic, hallucinogenic, or habit-producing drug”;
– DWI involving the operation of a commercial vehicle; or
– DWI that resulted in “serious bodily injury” to another person.
DWI is a serious traffic offense under New Jersey law. Even without a conviction, an arrest can have a significant impact on your life. You need a skilled and knowledgeable DWI attorney who can guide you through the legal process and advocate for your rights, both in and out of court. Evan Levow has dedicated his whole law practice to defending people charged with alleged DWI. Please contact us online or at (877) 593-1717 to schedule a free and confidential consultation with a member of our team.