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Alcohol restrictor explanation: functionality, installation obligations, and associated costs detailed.

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Alcohol Prevention Mechanism Explanation: Details on Installation Requirements, Pricing
Alcohol Prevention Mechanism Explanation: Details on Installation Requirements, Pricing

Alcohol restrictor explanation: functionality, installation obligations, and associated costs detailed.

In Italy, the installation of an alcohol interlock device (alcolock) is now mandatory for drivers caught driving with a blood alcohol level exceeding 0.8 g/l to regain their driving privileges. This electronic system prevents a vehicle's engine from starting if the driver fails a breathalyzer test showing any alcohol detected.

### Requirements

The alcolock must meet technical characteristics and installation methods as established by the Salvini decree, signed by Transport Minister Matteo Salvini. It can be installed on vehicles intended for both the transport of people and goods. Installation must be carried out exclusively by authorized workshops, who must affix a special anti-tampering seal.

Drivers are required to keep and present during checks both the declaration of installation and a valid calibration certificate of the device. Manufacturers must provide detailed instructions for use, maintenance, and installation. The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport will publish an official list of authorized installers and vehicle compatibility with different alcohol interlocks on the motorist portal.

### Costs

While exact costs are not detailed in the sources, installation and calibration by authorized workshops imply expenses including device purchase, installation labor, and ongoing calibration or maintenance. The decree emphasizes authorized and professional installation to ensure reliability and tamper resistance, which can influence pricing.

Typically, ignition interlock devices in Europe range from a few hundred euros for installation plus periodic calibration fees. However, costs can vary, so it's essential to confirm fees with authorized installers listed on the Ministry’s portal.

### Additional Context

This regulation is part of the Highway Code measures aimed at increasing road safety and reducing recidivism in drink-driving offenses. This system aligns with EU-wide efforts to facilitate alcohol interlock installation in vehicles and may become increasingly standardized.

In summary, installing an alcolock in Italy requires adherence to strict technical and procedural standards set by the government, certification and calibration by authorized workshops, and compliance with ongoing maintenance. Drivers must have an installation declaration and an updated calibration certificate on board. The cost structure typically includes the device, professional installation, and periodic recalibration, though specific fees should be confirmed with authorized installers listed on the Ministry’s portal[1][2].

  1. The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport in Italy is considering introducing finances for alcohol interlock installation and maintenance, as the process requires the purchase of the device, labor for installation, and ongoing calibration or maintenance costs.
  2. Entrepreneurs in the business sector, such as vehicle workshops authorized to install alcolocks, could potentially benefit from this new regulation, as it necessitates professional and compliant installation, providing opportunities for service and maintenance contracts.

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