Quick Start Guide for Self-Testers
iOS Guide
Download the BACtrack View app & log in
Use the same email address and password you created when signing up for BACtrack View.
BACtrack has several apps, so make sure you download the correct app by using the button or QR code.
If you’ve forgotten your password, you can click the “Forgot your password?” link at the bottom of the sign-in page. You’ll receive an email with a link to reset your password.
The first time you open the app, you’ll be prompted to share access to your camera and location. This is required to use the app.
Optional: Add a Monitor or Accountability Partner
If you didn’t invite a Monitor or Accountability Partner to your account during signup, you can do so by tapping the Contacts icon in the bottom-left corner of the app.
Set Testing Schedule
To set up a new testing schedule, tap the + icon on the right side of the screen. From here, you can select the Tester and then set:
Once you’ve set your testing schedule, tap the Schedule Test button to return to the home screen. From here, you can see all future tests scheduled – indicated by a gray dot under the date.
Take a Test
When it’s time to take a BAC test, you will receive a text message from BACtrack View. Click the link in the message to open the BACtrack View app and begin the test:
- Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone, and then turn on the BACtrack by pressing the silver button for 1-2 seconds until the blue lights come on.
- The app will then automatically connect with the BACtrack. Once connected, you will see a “preparing the device” screen, followed by “take a deep breath.”
- Once you are prompted, blow into the BACtrack for 6 seconds while holding their iOS device at eye level. You do not need to blow as hard as you can, but you do need to exhale firmly and consistently for 6 seconds straight, until you hear a click in the device.
Click on any test result in the Calendar to see more details about that result, including the date, time, location (if enabled) and video, as shown below:
NOTE: If you receive an “error” message, please turn the BACtrack off and on again before restarting the testing process.
Optional: On-Demand Tests
To take an on-demand test — outside of your testing schedule, that you or your monitor hasn’t set up — tap the Test icon on the bottom middle of the screen. This will initiate a one-time test. Follow the same instructions as above to test.
Optional: Download PDF Report
On the Plus and Pro plans, you can download PDF reports of your testing activity and results. First, tap the Activity icon.
Then, tap the Download icon in the upper right-hand corner to receive an email with your PDF report attached.
Important Testing Notes
Before you take your first breathalyzer test, please read the following:
Before You Test
- BACtrack View requires an active and stable internet connection in order for tests to be taken. Both WiFi and cellular data connections will work. Without a stable internet connection, readings may not save properly.
- Wait at least 15-20 minutes after eating, drinking or smoking before using the BACtrack Mobile breathalyzer. Failure to wait may cause inaccurate readings and damage the device’s fuel cell sensor.
- During the testing process, remove anything that obscures your face (hat, sunglasses, etc.).
- While testing, you must hold your smartphone device at eye level and look directly into the camera.
Precautions
Because the BACtrack device is so sensitive, it can detect trace amounts of alcohol from substances in the surrounding area, which may trigger a positive test result
- To avoid this problem, your BACtrack device should not be used near substances that contain methyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol or acetone.
- In the event of a positive test result believed to be caused by a foreign substance, the trace amounts of alcohol detected from that substance should dissipate shortly after the initial test. The tester should wait 15-30 minutes and then re-test in an area clear of any foreign substances.
- Examples of common foreign substances that may influence test results include, but are not limited to:
Also, avoid storing the BACtrack device near the above items at ALL TIMES. Furthermore:
- Do not test in areas where large amounts of alcohol are being consumed, or in areas with strong winds, smoke, or chemical substances.
- Do not cover, hold, or obstruct the BACtrack device’s mouthpiece during testing or permit any item to block the user’s ability to breathe into the device.
- Do not use or store the BACtrack device in temperatures below 32 ºF or above 104 ºF.
