DL 921 Form – The DL 921 Form, officially known as the Notice of Non-Compliance Ignition Interlock, is a critical document issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in relation to ignition interlock device (IID) requirements for DUI offenders. If you have an IID-restricted driver’s license, understanding the DL 921 PDF is essential to avoid license suspension. This guide explains everything you need to know about the form, including how to download the official DL-921 PDF directly from the DMV website.
What Is the DL 921 Form: Notice of Non-Compliance Ignition Interlock?
The DL 921 Form is the Notice of Non-Compliance Ignition Interlock used exclusively by certified IID installers in California. Revised in January 2019 (DL 921 REV. 1/2019), this form reports driver violations of IID program rules to the DMV.
Installers must complete and submit the DL 921 within three working days of discovering non-compliance. The form includes detailed sections on:
- Driver information (name, license number, addresses, birth date, phone numbers)
- Manufacturer and installer details (BAR or BHGS license number)
- Ignition interlock device information (name, model/serial number, installation date)
- Vehicle details (make, year, license plate, VIN)
- Specific non-compliance reasons with dates
Once submitted, the DMV uses this information to take administrative action on the driver’s license.
Purpose of the DL 921 Notice of Non-Compliance
The primary purpose of the DL 921 Form is to protect public safety by enforcing strict compliance with California’s ignition interlock device program. The form notifies the DMV when a driver fails to follow IID rules, triggering an immediate review of driving privileges.
Under California regulations (13 CCR § 125.18), installers are legally required to file this notice for specific violations. Non-compliance automatically leads to suspension or revocation of your driving privilege, and it may pause the time you spend under the IID restriction.
California Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Requirements Overview
California’s Statewide Ignition Interlock Device Pilot Program (effective January 1, 2019, through December 31, 2032) makes IIDs mandatory for most repeat and injury-related DUI convictions involving alcohol. Drivers must:
- Install a certified IID on every vehicle they operate
- Have the device calibrated and inspected every 60 days by a licensed installer (BAR or BHGS certified)
- Provide breath samples to start the vehicle and during “rolling retests” while driving
Failure to meet these requirements results in the installer filing a DL 921 Form.
Common Reasons an Installer Files the DL 921 Form
According to the official DL 921 PDF instructions and DMV guidelines, non-compliance occurs when:
- The driver fails to service or calibrate the IID within 60 days
- The driver misses three or more maintenance or calibration appointments
- The device records attempts to bypass, tamper with, or remove the IID
In each case, the installer must document exact dates and, where possible, attach a printout of the device’s data recorder.
What Happens When DMV Receives a DL 921 Form?
Upon receipt of the completed DL 921, the DMV will typically:
- Suspend or revoke your driving privilege immediately
- Send you a notice of the action
- Pause the IID restriction period until compliance is restored
This is a separate administrative action from your original DUI case and can affect your ability to drive even if you have otherwise met court requirements.
How to Download the Official DL 921 PDF?
You can download the most current DL 921 Form PDF directly from the California DMV website here:
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2025/02/DL-921-R1-2019-ASB-WWW-1.pdf
This is the official version hosted by the DMV. The form is for use by certified installers only—drivers do not fill it out themselves.
Steps to Resolve a DL 921 Non-Compliance Notice and Reinstate Your License
If you receive a DL 921-related suspension:
- Contact your IID installer immediately and schedule service/calibration
- Bring your vehicle in for inspection and recalibration
- Have the installer submit a new Verification of Installation Ignition Interlock (DL 920) form to the DMV
- Pay any applicable DMV reinstatement fees (including the $103 administrative service fee)
Once the DMV processes the new DL 920, your IID restriction can be reinstated and your driving privilege restored.
How to Avoid Receiving a DL 921 Form?
- Schedule and attend IID calibration appointments every 60 days or sooner
- Never attempt to tamper with, bypass, or remove the device
- Keep your installer’s contact information handy and communicate any scheduling issues early
- Document any unavoidable delays (military service, family emergency) and provide proof to your installer before the 60-day window closes
Consistent compliance keeps your license active and your IID restriction on track.
Frequently Asked Questions About the DL 921 Form
Who fills out the DL 921 Form?
Only the certified IID installer. Drivers receive a copy but do not complete it.
Can I appeal a DL 921 suspension?
You may request a hearing through the DMV, but compliance with the IID program is usually the fastest path to reinstatement.
Is the DL 921 Form the same as a court notice?
No. It is an administrative DMV form. Courts may receive copies in some cases, but the primary action is through the DMV.
Where do I find the official DL 921 PDF?
Direct download: DMV DL 921 PDF
For questions about your specific case, contact the DMV Mandatory Actions Unit at (916) 657-6525 or visit your certified IID provider.
Important Note: This article is for informational purposes only and is based on current official California DMV resources and regulations as of 2026. It is not legal advice. Always consult the DMV or a qualified attorney for guidance on your individual driving privileges.