ACT Alcohol Interlock Program | Affordable Interlocks
Australian Capital Territory

ACT Alcohol Interlock Program

A plain-language guide for new participants — what to expect, what's required, and how to get started.

Government House, Canberra ACT — Wikimedia Commons, free licence
What is this page? This is a high-level overview of the ACT Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program. It is not a substitute for official government information. For full legislative detail please visit the Access Canberra — Probationary Licences page.

What is the ACT Alcohol Interlock Program?

The ACT Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program is administered by Access Canberra (the Road Transport Authority). If you have been convicted of a qualifying drink driving offence in the ACT, you will be required — or may choose — to have an approved interlock device fitted to your vehicle as a condition of your probationary licence.

The interlock condition is denoted by the letter 'I' on your licence. You must only drive vehicles fitted with an approved interlock device while this condition is on your licence. Before you can apply for a probationary licence you must also complete an approved Alcohol and Drug Awareness Course (ADAC).

Administering Body

Access Canberra (Road Transport Authority) — 02 6207 7002

Who Must Participate

Drivers convicted of a BAC offence of 0.15 or above, or with two or more alcohol-related offences within 5 years (mandatory). Also available voluntarily for other qualifying offenders.

Interlock Period

Mandatory interlock condition cannot be issued until half the disqualification period has been served. The interlock period ends when you demonstrate 3 months of full compliance.

Program Costs

Costs are paid directly to your approved interlock installer and cover installation, lease, servicing, and removal.

Steps from Conviction to Completion

  1. 1
    Complete Your Disqualification Period — For mandatory interlock conditions, you must serve at least half of your court-imposed disqualification period before you can apply for a probationary licence with an interlock condition.
  2. 2
    Complete the Alcohol & Drug Awareness Course (ADAC) — You must complete an approved ADAC and provide the certificate to Access Canberra before a probationary licence can be issued.
  3. 3
    Apply for Your Probationary Licence with Interlock Condition — Complete the application form (nominating your vehicle/s) and lodge it with Access Canberra in person. Contact Access Canberra on 02 6207 7002 or visit an Access Canberra service centre.
  4. 4
    Have Your Interlock Installed — Contact an approved ACT interlock installer to arrange installation in your nominated vehicle/s. The installer will register the device with Access Canberra and train you on how to use it correctly.
  5. 5
    Demonstrate Compliance & Have Condition Removed — You must demonstrate 3 months of full compliance (zero failed tests and all services attended) before the interlock condition can be removed from your licence. You may also need to complete any court-ordered therapeutic program.

What You Must Do as a Program Participant

  • A zero BAC applies at all times while driving on an interlock licence.
  • You may only drive nominated vehicles fitted with an approved interlock device.
  • The interlock must be installed by an approved ACT interlock installer — driving a vehicle with an interlock fitted by anyone else is a breach.
  • You must not drive a nominated vehicle if you know (or ought to know) the interlock is not operating properly or has been interfered with.
  • You must not tamper with the interlock or allow anyone else to interfere with its proper operation.
  • Your interlock period will be extended if, during the final 3 months of your interlock period, you record any failed breath tests, missed services, or other breaches.
  • Interstate licence holders moving to the ACT, or ACT licence holders with an interstate interlock court order, should contact Access Canberra directly on 02 6207 7002.
⚠️ Voluntary Interlock Option: If you have been convicted of a BAC offence but do not meet the mandatory interlock criteria, you may still choose to apply for a probationary licence with a voluntary interlock condition immediately after sentencing — allowing you to get back on the road sooner. Contact Access Canberra on 02 6207 7002 for eligibility.

Not All Providers Are Equal — Choose Wisely

Only Access Canberra-approved interlock installers can fit and service your device. The provider you choose will affect your day-to-day experience for the entire duration of your interlock condition, so it pays to choose the simplest, most reliable option available.

Affordable Interlock Systems (AIS) Approved ACT Provider

The Simplest Interlock Device on the Market

AIS is an approved ACT interlock provider and the preferred choice for participants who want a straightforward, stress-free experience. Our device stands out from others on the market for one very important reason — simplicity.

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Breath Sample Only

Simply provide a single, straightforward breath sample to start your vehicle. Clean, quick, and dignified.

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No Complex Sequences

Unlike some other devices on the market, there are no unusual or complicated breath patterns required — just breathe naturally.

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Affordable Pricing

Competitively priced installation and servicing — getting back on the road shouldn't cost a fortune.

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Approved & Compliant

Fully approved under the ACT Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program. Our devices meet all Access Canberra requirements.

Ready to book with AIS? Get a Quote Today 1800 252 656

Official Government & Program Resources

Affordable Interlock Systems — Australian Capital Territory

Ready to Get Started?

Contact Affordable Interlocks today — we'll guide you through every step of the ACT program, from installation to completion.

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