Can an Ignition Interlock Device Detect Pot?
An Ignition Interlock Device is specifically designed to detect and measure the alcohol content in your breath sample. To date, the Ignition Interlock Device cannot detect marijuana. HOWEVER, blowing marijuana smoke into the Ignition Interlock Device could register as a violation, force you to re-take a test, or cause damage to the Ignition Interlock Device (IID).
Ignition Interlocks and What They Detect
Most Ignition Interlock Devices have a fuel cell sensor that is designed to detect any amount of alcohol in one’s breath sample, even trace amounts of alcohol found in household products, cleaning products, or toiletries (like mouthwash, cologne, or perfume).
Marijuana—also known as pot, Mary J., Mary Jane, weed, etc—is not comprised of alcohol in any way. Therefore, an Ignition Interlock Device is not technically designed to detect pot.
Avoid Smoking While Driving
However, Smart Start strongly discourages smoking marijuana during your restricted driving period, especially if you’re smoking while you’re driving. If you live in a state where marijuana or pot has been legalized—or if you use pot or marijuana for medicinal purposes—please make sure that you refrain from smoking while driving. Also, be sure to rinse your mouth out with water before taking a breath test with your Smart Start Ignition Interlock Device (IID). Particles left in the mouth from smoking pot or marijuana may litter, damage, or otherwise deter your device from allowing you to complete and pass a breath test.
While an Ignition Interlock Device is not designed to detect pot, blowing pot smoke into your device may damage the technology, resulting in a violation. The alcohol-specific fuel cell that powers your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is reliable, durable technology, but it is meant only for collecting and analyzing breath samples.
Smart Start does not encourage or condone any illegal activity related to the recreational or medicinal use of marijuana, or any other form of THC.
Need an Ignition Interlock?
Choose Smart Start for your Ignition Interlock program. Schedule your installation appointment by calling [company_variable name=”Corporate Telephone Number Link”] or by filling out our online form.