Michigan Interlock Device Removal

After completing your required interlock period (minimum one year for most cases), you’re eligible to petition the Secretary of State to remove the device and receive your full, unrestricted license. This isn’t automatic — you need to file a new petition, provide updated evidence of continued sobriety, and may need to appear at another OHAO hearing.

At Brandon McNamee PLC, we handle the entire interlock removal process.

When Can You Remove Your Interlock?

• You’ve completed the minimum required interlock period (typically at least 1 year of violation-free driving)
• Your interlock data log shows consistent, clean results with no violations
• You’ve maintained sobriety throughout the restricted period
• You can provide updated evidence of continued sobriety
• You’ve kept current with all interlock device service and calibration appointments
• You have no new driving offenses or legal issues during the restricted period

How Interlock Removal Works

Interlock Removal FAQ

How long do I have to drive with an interlock?

The minimum period is typically one year of violation-free driving. Depending on your history, the required period may be longer.

Is the removal hearing the same as the original restoration hearing?

Similar process, but the focus is different. You’re proving that you’ve successfully completed the restricted period and deserve full, unrestricted privileges.

What if I had a minor issue during the restricted period?

Minor technical issues don’t necessarily prevent removal. If you had a false positive that was resolved or a missed calibration with a good explanation, we can present evidence to contextualize them.

Do I need new support letters?

Yes. The state wants current letters that speak to your continued sobriety. We provide detailed guidance to your letter writers.

What the Hearing Officer Looks For in an Interlock Removal Case

The interlock removal hearing is not simply a formality. The hearing officer at the Michigan Secretary of State’s Office of Hearings and Administrative Oversight will carefully review your entire restricted driving period to determine whether you have demonstrated responsible behavior and continued sobriety. Key factors they evaluate include:

• Clean interlock data logs — Your device records every breath test, start attempt, and rolling retest. The hearing officer will review this data closely for any failed tests, skipped tests, or irregularities.
• Compliance with all restrictions — This means driving only during permitted hours if you had time restrictions, and only for approved purposes such as work, school, medical appointments, and court-ordered obligations.
• Continued sobriety — You must demonstrate that your substance abuse problem remains under control and is likely to stay that way. Updated letters of support and evidence of ongoing recovery efforts strengthen your case significantly.
• No new criminal offenses — Any new arrests or convictions during the restricted period will raise serious red flags at your hearing.

Many people assume that simply completing the minimum one-year interlock period guarantees full license restoration. That is not the case. The Secretary of State can and does deny interlock removal petitions when the evidence is insufficient or when the petitioner cannot demonstrate continued commitment to sobriety. Attorney Brandon McNamee prepares every interlock removal case with the same thoroughness and attention to detail as the original license restoration petition, ensuring nothing is left to chance.

Related Services

The interlock removal petition is the final step in the license restoration journey. If you experienced issues during your restricted driving period, learn about our interlock violation defense services. Read our complete guide on how to get your license back in Michigan.