The device you are referring to is called an ignition interlock. This device analyzes the driver's breath and will disable the ignition if it determines the driver has been drinking. There are certain states which permit DUI offenders to drive vehicles that are equipped with the ignition interlocks while their license is under suspension.

You did not mention which state you are licensed and received your DUIs in. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety as of May 2006, 46 states and the District of Columbia permit some offenders to drive only if their vehicles have been equipped with ignition interlocks. These devices analyze a driver's breath and disable the ignition if the driver has been drinking.

Some of the states that use this device include Alaska, California, Nevada, Ohio, Virginia, Florida and it is even used out of the country in Ontario, Canada. The ignition interlock can be a condition of probation, court ordered, the only way for a convicted DUI offender may operate a motor vehicle, required due to a 2nd or 3rd offense or as a condition to suspend a sentence or reinstate a license to name a few reasons that states use it.

In Florida, first time DUI offenders with either a breath alcohol concentration level of 0.20 or higher or driving with a minor in the vehicle at the time of the offense will be required to have the ignition interlock device for up to 6 months. Second offenders must have the device for at least 1 year or at least 2 years if the BAL was greater than 0.20 or a minor was in the vehicle. Third offenders must have the device for at least 2 years. The statute requires an interlock device on all vehicles the customer owns and routinely operates.

To find out what your state will require of you once your 5 year driver's license suspension period is up, contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles. They should be able to advise you if you will be required to have the ignition interlock device in your vehicle(s), have to carry an SR-22, or have other restrictions placed upon you once you have your license reinstated.