3 Steps to Follow Before Installing an Ignition Interlock Device

Are you under a court order or state requirement to install an Ignition Interlock Device? Do you also have to obtain a restricted driver license (also known as an Ignition Interlock Limited License) or permit before or after installing the device? An Ignition Interlock system is usually the first step in getting your driving privileges restored.

But let’s take a few steps back.

There are a lot of moving pieces, and your DUI, DWI or OWI case can get confusing fast. Let’s go over these 3 things to be aware of so you can move forward with getting your driving privileges reinstated with a required Ignition Interlock Device, regardless of your situation.

1. Check Your Driving Privilege Status

The first thing you want to make sure you know is your driving privilege status. Speak with your court and/or state office, like the Department of Public Safety (DPS), Department of Licensing (DOL), or Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), to understand what your driving status is, and when that may change due to your DUI arrest. Smart Start, the leading Ignition Interlock provider, offers helpful information regarding your Ignition Interlock system, but for legal questions such as your driving privileges, it is best to consult with a legal representative, or your oversight authority with your DUI.

2. Find Out When You Need To Do the Ignition Interlock Device Installation

Second, who is requiring you to do the Ignition Interlock Device installation, so you understand your situation. Is the device under a court requirement, or as a condition of a restricted driver license? When do you have to install the Ignition Interlock? Once you know why and when you are installing the Ignition Interlock, it’ll be easier to pinpoint who to go to for answers. You can also check our state-specific Ignition Interlock blogs to make sure you are installing the device at the right date! If you have any questions, you can always call our Ignition Interlock Program Advisors and they will help you to locate the right information to get you started.

3. Driver’s License Reinstatement – Status and Installing Your Ignition Interlock

Now that you know your current driving privilege status and when you need to install your Ignition Interlock, and with whom, here’s the last step. You will need to find out what your driver’s license status is in relation to the Interlock requirements of your Ignition Interlock. Do you need to visit your state office to apply for a permit or an Ignition Interlock restricted license? If you evaluated the two steps above, you should have an idea of when to acquire this driver’s license, whether it’s before or after the Ignition Interlock installation. We know this process can be confusing. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our trained Program Advisors who are experts at navigating this process.

Finally, let’s go over the IID installation appointment.

If your driving status is still valid, you can drive yourself to a Smart Start service center to install the Ignition Interlock by the date you need it in your motor vehicle. If your driving status is not valid, arrange for alternate transportation to get your vehicle to the Smart Start service center. For example, you could have your spouse drive your vehicle to the service center or tow your motor vehicle. If you speak Spanish, we also have bilingual technicians at select service locations.

Above all else, remember that you have someone who can answer your questions with your DUI case. If it’s a court order, make sure to ask your probation officer or other judicial authority who oversees your DUI case. If you need an Ignition Interlock under your state office, in most states, you can check your driving privilege status by calling them or even checking their site, such as theTexas DPS.

Can You Install Your Interlock Device Yourself?

No, you cannot. It’s required to have your Interlock device installed professionally at a certified service provider’s center. Once installed, the device will be monitored, and any tampering will be logged and trigger an alarm, service call, or vehicle lockout.

Ready to Get Back on the Road?

Now that you have a better idea of your current driving status, it may be time to install your Ignition Interlock now. Smart Start is the leading Ignition Interlock provider that can accommodate your schedule, whether it’s next month, tomorrow or even today! As the worldwide leader of Ignition Interlocks, we can help you meet your IID requirement better than any other service provider.

Keep in mind that although our Customer Care Center is 24/7/365, our service centers have their own hours and schedules. Our Ignition Interlock Program Advisors at (800) 831-3299will be happy to help you schedule an Interlock Device installation appointment at a time and date that’s convenient to you.