Alcohol Interlock Program

Dear driving instructors and driver trainers

VicRoads update 21 February 2022: Legislative changes- amendments to the Road Safety Act 1986

We are contacting you to advise you of upcoming legislative changes which may impact you and/or your customers.

Amendments to the Road Safety Act 1986

From 1 March 2022, various amendments to the Road Safety Act L986 will take effect, including the introduction of a new section 50AAD(3B). With the amendment, there are changes in Alcohol Interlock in Victoria.

Section 50AAD(3B) will introduce a change to policy and processes regarding supervising and/or assessing a driver whose licence/permit is subject to an alcohol interlock condition and no alcohol interlock is fitted in the vehicle.

What are the changes?

The following Alcohol Interlock Program rules are now applicable.

Where a person holds a driver licence and/or learner permit that is subject to an alcohol interlock condition, the person may drive a motor vehicle that is not fitted with an alcohol interlock:

• When the person is undergoing a driving assessment* that is supervised by a commercial driving instructor (1) and conducted in a dual controlled vehicle; (or)
• When the person is undertaking driving lessons that are supervised by a commercial driving instructor conducted in a dual controlled vehicle.

Driving assessments include:

• A driving assessment to obtain a driver licence (i.e., first issue/reissue)
• A driving assessment to vary a driver licence to add another category (i.e., heavy vehicle/motorcycle)
• A driving assessment to vary a driver licence/learner permit to remove a condition (i.e., removal of ’A’ condition or ‘X/V’ conditions as a result of a medical review driving assessment).

Note: in all instances, the commercial driving instructor must be satisfied that the person is not affected by alcohol and that the driving assessment or driving supervision can be undertaken safely.

Impacts for driving Instructors and driver trainers

Please familiarise yourselves with the changes as you may receive queries from your customers.
We also encourage you to carefully review the changes and consider whether any changes might be required to your current processes.

We particularly draw your attention to the fact that the onus is always on the commercial driving instructor to satisfy themselves that a person undertaking training and/or driver assessment is not affected by alcohol.

More information

For more information about the changes, we encourage you and your customers to visit the VicRoads website which will be updated on 1 March 2022 with details of the changes.

Kind regards,
Serge Zandegu

Acting Director Registration and Licensing

(1)A Commercial driving instructor (general) means a person who, for financial gain or in the course of any trade or business, is teaching a person who is driving a motor vehicle to drive that motor vehicle on a highway.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I enrol in the Alcohol Interlock Program in Victoria?

To enrol in the Alcohol Interlock Program in Victoria, you’ll need to complete a court or VicRoads requirement. Start by getting an order and then contact us at Freedom Drive. We’ll guide you through the enrollment process, including the necessary paperwork and the installation appointment for the interlock device. We make enrollment straightforward, supporting you every step of the way.

How does the alcohol interlock device work?

The alcohol interlock device is a breathalyser for your vehicle. It needs you to give a breath sample before the engine will start. If any alcohol is detected in your breath above a pre-set limit, the vehicle won’t start. This system ensures that driving is attempted only when the driver is sober, promoting safety on the roads.

Can I choose the service provider for the alcohol interlock device, or is it provided by the government?

While the government mandates using an alcohol interlock device, you can choose your own service provider. Freedom Drive is an accredited provider, and we can install and service the device. You can select a provider that best meets your needs, and we’re here to offer the assistance you require.

What are the costs associated with the Alcohol Interlock Program in Victoria?

Costs for the Alcohol Interlock Program in Victoria vary. At Freedom Drive, we aim to keep the program affordable with a clear pricing structure that covers installation, monthly service, and removal of the device. We’ll provide detailed cost information upfront, so there are no surprises.

How long do I need to have the alcohol interlock device in my vehicle?

The duration you need the alcohol interlock device in your vehicle varies depending on individual circumstances and court or VicRoads requirements. It’s typically determined by the nature of the offence and your driving record. We at Freedom Drive will help you understand the specifics of your required period during your enrollment with us.

Is there support available for participants in the Alcohol Interlock Program, such as guidance on how to use the device or address technical issues?

Yes, Freedom Drive provides comprehensive support for participants in the Alcohol Interlock Program. We offer complete guidance on using the device, along with assistance for any technical issues you might encounter. Our team is here to ensure your experience with the program is as smooth and stress-free as possible.