A false positive on an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) can be triggered by various substances and situations that mimic the presence of alcohol. Some common causes include:
Mouthwash or Breath Fresheners: Many contain alcohol, which can be detected by the IID if used shortly before a test.
Certain Foods: Fermented foods like bread, pastries, or pizza dough can create trace amounts of alcohol that may register on the device.
Medications: Some over-the-counter medications, such as cough syrups or liquid cold medicines, contain alcohol.
Personal Care Products: Hand sanitizers, perfumes, and some hygiene products with alcohol can lead to a false positive if recently used and inhaled.
Environmental Factors: Exposure to fumes from paint, gasoline, or cleaning agents can sometimes cause an inaccurate reading.
To avoid false positives, wait 10-15 minutes after using any alcohol-based products or consuming certain foods before taking the IID test. Drinking water or rinsing your mouth may help reduce the likelihood of false results.