Methods and systems for controlling a passive driver impairment detection system in a vehicle are provided. The method and system detect states of vehicle component operating systems and/or vehicle occupant monitoring systems and control activation and deactivation of the impairment detection system in response. The methods and systems enable a proactive transition from an inactive state to an active state by detecting the presence of an individual within or approaching the vehicle or an intent of the individual to approach the vehicle in order to overcome a significant functional latency in the impairment detection system. The methods and system further enable a transition from the active state to the inactive state by using multiple systems to corroborate the absence of the individual within or approaching the vehicle and the lack of intent of the individual to approach the vehicle.