Being told you need an alcohol interlock can feel overwhelming. Suddenly, you're faced with court orders for alcohol ignition devices and a legal process guided by strict drink driving laws.

The path forward might not seem clear, but this guide is here to help.

If you're a driver, our goal is to give you the clarity and confidence you need to get back on the road and successfully complete your program. If you're a professional workshop, we'll show you how  partnering with Affordable Interlock Systems to provide this vital alcohol interlock service can be a rewarding and profitable addition to your business.

We’ll walk you through everything, from the details of your installation day to the importance of ongoing maintenance. Let’s dive in.

 

What is an Alcohol Interlock and Why is it Required?

What exactly is an alcohol ignition interlock? Think of it as a small, sophisticated breathalyser that’s professionally wired into your vehicle’s ignition system. It uses accurate fuel cell sensor technology to measure for the presence of alcohol.

Before you can start your engine, you must provide a quick breath sample into the device. If it detects alcohol above a pre-set, near-zero limit, the ignition remains locked, and the vehicle will not start.

 A Proven Part of Australian Law

But why is this technology so critical? In Australia, every state and territory now has a mandatory alcohol interlock program for a simple reason—they are proven to work. Comprehensive studies have shown that these programs reduce drink driving re-offending by at least 43%.

These devices are a cornerstone of enforcing Australia's strict drink driving laws. It's a system designed to protect you, your community, and to help you get back on the road safely and responsibly.

A Guide for Drivers — Navigating Your Interlock Program

 Your Installation Day

The first step in your program is the installation, and we aim to make it as straightforward as possible. You’ll bring your vehicle to your nearest accredited service centre, where a certified technician will handle the entire process, which usually takes a few hours.

Modern cars have incredibly complex electronics, so our technicians are expertly trained. They use non-invasive techniques to connect the device to your ignition circuit, ensuring it works perfectly without interfering with your car's existing systems.

Before you leave, the technician will give you personal, one-on-one training on how to use your ALCOLOCK™ device, so you'll drive away with complete confidence.

Daily Use – A Simple Guide to Your Device

Your interlock is designed to be simple and unobtrusive. When you turn your key to accessories, the screen will light up and prompt you with ‘Ready for test.’ All it takes is a steady blow into the mouthpiece for a few seconds to provide a sample.

Periodically, the device will ask for a "rolling re-test" while you're driving. You'll hear a beep, and the screen will ask for another sample, which is a normal feature of all Australian programs. You have several minutes to respond, so there is plenty of time to find a safe place to pull over before providing the test.

 Your Mandatory Service

Your regular service appointments—usually every 30 or 60 days—are the most important part of successfully completing your program. This is your proof of compliance. During the appointment, the technician performs two critical actions.

First, they run a calibration check on the device’s sensor to ensure its readings remain perfectly accurate. Second, and most importantly, they download the encrypted data log. This log is your official record of every event, which we then securely report to your state transport authority—whether that's Transport for NSW, TMR in Queensland, or VicRoads—on your behalf as required by law.

 A Guide for Service Partners

As a skilled auto-electrician or workshop owner, you're always looking for ways to add value and increase revenue. Partnering with Affordable Interlocks offers a straightforward way to do just that, letting you tap into a government-mandated market. You can add a new, well-paid income stream to your business with zero upfront investment in stock.

We’ve designed our partnership model to be simple. We handle all customer enquiries and program management through our paperless system. Your role is focused purely on your technical expertise—performing high-quality installations, services, and removals.

  Best Practices for a Professional Installation

Your professional skill is key to the program's success. For a flawless installation, the most critical step is correctly identifying the Tach Signal Source to ensure the device accurately detects when the engine is running. Modern vehicles often require a connection to an injector pulse, camshaft sensor, or an OBD2 signal.

To support you, we provide both the software and a dedicated tech hotline to help you quickly identify the correct source for any vehicle. Our goal is to give you the tools you need to perform a reliable installation every time.

 

A Simple and Streamlined Service Model

One of the greatest benefits of Affordable Interlock’s model is efficiency. You do not need to carry stock or perform complex "calibrations" of handsets in your workshop. A routine service is a simple "monitor" appointment.

The customer arrives, you connect their device to your laptop, and our software handles the secure data download. This streamlined process is designed to be quick and profitable, allowing you to fit these appointments into your day with minimal disruption.

Affordable Interlock Systems is Your Trusted Partner  

Navigating a legally mandated program is about having a clear path forward. Whether you are a driver needing to get back on the road or a workshop looking to provide a vital service, the goal is a simple, compliant, and stress-free process. At Affordable Interlock Systems, we are committed to providing the reliable technology and supportive network needed to achieve that.

We understand the challenges involved. By focusing on a straightforward process, providing clear advice, and partnering with Australia's best local technicians, we ensure every step is handled with professionalism and care.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to book your installation or to learn more about the benefits of becoming an accredited Affordable Interlocks Systems service partner.