BACtrack View quick start guide icon for self-testers

Quick Start Guide: Self Testers

The person taking the BAC tests with the BACtrack, but they do not have a Monitor. They are monitoring their own results.

Step 1: 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.

Download on the App StoreBACtrack View 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.

App Permissions

Camera and notification permissions
Location permission
BACtrack View login screen

Open the BACtrack View app and log in. Use the same email address and password you created when signing up for BACtrack View.

Optional: Add a Monitor or Accountability Partner

Add a 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.

Enter their email address — an invitation to join your account will be sent, along with instructions for them to set up their account.

MonitorMonitorAccountability PartnerAccountability Partner
Set and manage testing schedule
View test results
Receive SMS/email test notifications(some plans)(some plans)
Download PDF reports of test results and activity(some plans)
Pay bills
Multiple allowed(some plans)

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:

Schedule timeframe

Your schedule's start day and time frame

Schedule repeat

If and how often the schedule repeats

Schedule randomize

If test times should be randomized

Schedule test count

How many random tests should occur

Adding a test

Adding a test

Repeating and randomizing a test

Repeating & randomizing a test

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:

SMS notification from BACtrack View

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 your 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.

Test results in Calendar

Click on any test result in the Calendar to see more details about that result, including the date, time, location (if enabled) and video.

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.

On-demand 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.

Activity icon
Download 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

Before every test tips
  • 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 device at eye level and look directly into the camera.

During Testing

During testing steps

Once you are prompted, blow into the BACtrack for 6 seconds while holding your 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.

Camera Placement

Camera and device placement

While testing, you must hold your device at eye level and look directly into the camera. Use the front-facing camera and ensure you are in a well-lit area.

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.
Common products that may contain alcohol

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°F or above 104°F.
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