Northern Territory

NT Alcohol Ignition Lock Program

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

Uluru (Ayers Rock), Northern Territory — Wikimedia Commons, free licence
What is this page? This is a high-level overview of the NT Alcohol Ignition Lock (AIL) Program. It is not a substitute for official government information. For full legislative detail please visit the NT Government — Official Alcohol Ignition Lock (AIL) Order Requirements and Information.

What is the NT Alcohol Ignition Lock Program?

The Northern Territory Alcohol Ignition Lock (AIL) program applies to repeat drink drivers. If you have been found guilty of a repeat drink driving offence, the court may issue an AIL order requiring you to have an approved alcohol ignition lock installed in your vehicle. This occurs after you have completed your mandatory licence disqualification period.

The AIL is a breath-testing device wired to your vehicle's ignition. You must blow into the handset before your vehicle will start. If your BAC is below 0.02%, the vehicle can start within 3 minutes. Random retests are also required during the journey.

Administering Body

NT Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) — contact on 1300 654 628

Who Must Participate

Repeat drink drivers — those with at least one prior drink driving conviction — as ordered by the Court under the Traffic Act 1987 (NT)

AIL Period

Between 6 months and 3 years as determined by the Court. If your licence is suspended during the AIL period, the period is extended by that time.

Program Costs

Costs are paid directly to the approved AIL supplier and cover installation, lease, servicing, and removal. A Low Income Earner Subsidy is available.

Steps from Court Order to Completion

  1. 1
    Receive Your Court Order — The court issues an AIL order as part of your sentence for a repeat drink driving offence. The order sets out the length of your AIL period (6 months to 3 years).
  2. 2
    Complete Your Disqualification Period — You must serve your mandatory licence disqualification period before you can apply for an AIL licence. If you do not apply, you remain disqualified until the end of your AIL period.
  3. 3
    Apply for Your AIL Licence — Contact the NT Motor Vehicle Registry on 1300 654 628 to apply for your AIL licence. You will need to provide evidence of identity and your Back on Track 'drink and drug education course' certificate.
  4. 4
    Have Your AIL Installed — Contact an approved NT AIL supplier to have the device installed in your nominated vehicle. The supplier will train you on how to use the device correctly.
  5. 5
    Complete the Program — Once your AIL period ends and your compliance record is satisfactory, have the device removed by your supplier and return to the MVR to have the AIL condition removed from your licence.

What You Must Do as a Program Participant

  • You must not drive with a BAC of 0.02% or more — a zero alcohol limit effectively applies. If your BAC is 0.02% or above, the AIL will activate your car horn and hazard lights until you turn off the ignition.
  • You may only drive vehicles fitted with an approved AIL device.
  • You must provide a breath sample before starting the vehicle. After 5–10 minutes of driving, you must pull over for a retest. Two further retests are required after 15–60 minutes.
  • Other people may drive your AIL-fitted vehicle but must also comply with all AIL conditions. If they don't, the AIL will be disabled and must be taken to a supplier for service.
  • You must not interfere with, tamper with, or allow anyone else to interfere with the proper operation of the AIL.
  • You must permit police to inspect the AIL on the spot.
  • Driving a vehicle without a fitted AIL while on an AIL licence is an offence carrying a term of imprisonment of up to 12 months imprisonment.
  • Your AIL period pauses during any licence suspension and resumes immediately after the suspension ends.
⚠️ Low Income Earner Subsidy: If you hold a current Commonwealth (Centrelink) Health Care Card, or an income statement showing you receive the maximum rate of pension, you may be eligible for a subsidy to assist with the costs of installing, removing and leasing an approved AIL. Ask your AIL supplier for details when booking your installation.

Not All Providers Are Equal — Choose Wisely

Only NT-approved AIL suppliers can install and service your device. The provider you choose will affect your day-to-day experience for the entire duration of your order. Different devices operate differently — so it pays to choose the simplest, most reliable option available.

Affordable Interlock Systems (AIS) Approved NT Provider

The Simplest Interlock Device on the Market

AIS is an approved NT AIL 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 NT Alcohol Ignition Lock Program. Our devices meet all NT Motor Vehicle Registry requirements.

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

Official Government & Program Resources

Affordable Interlock Systems — Northern Territory

Ready to Get Started?

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

Get a Quote Today — NT Alcohol Ignition Lock Program