In various embodiments, apparatus, systems, and methods for detecting an intoxicated driver of a vehicle and preventing operation of the vehicle are presented. In one embodiment, an apparatus comprises an air intake configured to intake an air sample from a predetermined detection zone. The predetermined detection zone is defined as a three-dimensional zone substantially in or in proximity of an area of a vehicle occupied by a driver. An operator detection sensor detects the presence of the driver within the predetermined detection zone. The operator detection sensor automatically operates the air intake when the operator is detected. A detector module comprises a sensor configured to produce an electrical signal representative of a blood alcohol content of the driver. A control module is electrically coupled to the detector module to control at least one operation of the vehicle in response to the signal received by the control module from the sensor.