Frequently Asked Questions
If you have been convicted of a drink-driving offence in Canada, you may be required to install an alcohol interlock in your vehicle in order to reinstate your driver’s licence.
ALCOLOCK Canada will make the participation process easy for you. We are dedicated to helping people drive again by temporarily installing an easy-to-use alcohol interlock as per the instructions on your court order.
Please take a moment to read the Frequently Asked Questions below which will help you understand the process and your role as a participant.
Q: What is an Alcohol Interlock?
A: Before being able to start the vehicle, the driver must take and pass a breath sample with the alcohol interlock. Once the interlock has determined the driver is below a preset BAC setpoint, the vehicle may be started. To prevent other people from providing the required breath sample, the interlock requires additional breath samples at random intervals during the trip.
Q: Who pays for the Alcohol Interlock? What does it cost?
A: Drivers subject to an alcohol interlock condition are responsible for all installation and maintenance costs. When you call to book an appointment, a representative will provide details such as the monthly fees payable and service centre locations, and will collect the basic installation charge and any surcharge applicable to your vehicle.
Q: How do I get an Alcohol Interlock installed in my vehicle?
A: We’ll make the entire process easy for you. Our installation centres are conveniently located and your alcohol interlock will be installed while you wait. Make sure you correctly identify the vehicle in which the interlock is to be installed when you book your appointment, so that we can ensure that we have the right components on hand when you arrive. If you specify the vehicle incorrectly or otherwise attend for your installation appointment with a vehicle other than that specified you may incur a vehicle surcharge or we may be unable to assist you, in which event, you may be required to pay a missed appointment fee. After the installation is complete, you will receive full training on-site and our Technicians will take the time to ensure everything is operating properly before you leave. A list of locations is available here.
Q: What happens after the interlock is installed?
A: You will be required to visit the installation center 30 days after the installation and then every 60 days for your scheduled service and to download the data. Scheduled service appointments typically take less than 20 minutes. Click here to view a demonstration of how an alcohol interlock works.
Q: How accurate are the breath test results?
A: Our breathalyzers operate within ± 5% accuracy for every breath test result.
Q: How can I choose the best breathalyzer for me?
A: You can choose the best breathalyzer that will fit your needs with the Find Your Best Fit function by clicking here.
Q: How often do I need to calibrate my device(s) and how much does it cost?
A: It is recommended that you calibrate your breathalyzer once every year. Please contact your local service provider for more information on calibration costs.
Q: How do I get my device calibrated?
A: When a breathalyzer needs to be calibrated, contact your local service provider and ship the device prepaid to the service centre. Once the calibration is complete, the device will be shipped back to you.
Q: Do I need to use a mouthpiece and if so, can I reuse each mouthpiece?
A: Yes, you have to use a mouthpiece for all of the breathalyzers units, except for ALCOSCAN™. It is not recommended to reuse mouthpieces due to hygiene and potential damage to internal components in the device.
Q: What do the readings on the display mean?
A: The readings displayed on the breathalyzer shows the BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) level of the breath sample.
Q: Do the results on the display show BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) or BrAC (Breath Alcohol Concentration) levels?
A: Both terms are relevant to each other; however, some countries use BAC and some use BrAC.
Q: Are the sensors used in the breathalyzers the same sensor used by law enforcement devices?
A: Yes, they both use an industry certified fuel cell sensor.
Q: Can I use my breathalyzer outdoors during winter?
A: Yes, depending on the temperature threshold of the device. Please consult the instruction manual for further information.
Q: What is the best way to maintain my breathalyzer?
A: Store your device indoors, at room temperature when not in use. Ensure that the breathalyzer is not used/stored in extremely hot or cold environments or in direct light for prolonged periods of time.
Q: What happens if I leave my breathalyzer in my vehicle?
A: If a breathalyzer is left in your vehicle, there is a chance that it might not work efficiently. Consult the instruction manual for further information.
Q: Is there a warranty for my device? What does it cover?
A: Yes, there is a one-year warranty that is included when you purchase any breathalyzer that only covers factory defects. Damages caused by misuse or mishandling are the owner’s responsibility. If a device needs to be repaired outside of warranty, please ship it prepaid to a local service centre.
Q: What should I do if my device is malfunctioning?
A: If your device is still within the one-year warranty, you can ship it prepaid to the nearest service centre for repair. The device will be repaired or replaced if a factory defect has been assessed.
If the warranty has expired, we will assess the damage(s) and provide you with a quote.
Q: Can I extend the warranty for my breathalyzer?
A: Yes, you can extend the warranty for your breathalyzer by contacting your local service provider.