What consequences might you have to face to move past your DUI in Tennessee? Here’s a quick look at some of the most common requirements.
Smart Start Ignition Interlock: We’re Here for the Volunteer State
Dealing with a DUI in Tennessee is a major challenge for anyone, but with Smart Start here to help, there’s no need to sing the blues. Our customer care team offers 24/7 support in multiple languages, and our skilled technicians will have your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed quickly and your vehicle back on the road. We also aim to offer competitive pricing to help you find an Ignition Interlock in Tennessee at a price you can afford.
Ready to get started? Talk to Smart Start today — our friendly Program Advisors will help you find interlock services near you that fit your program requirements.
How do you get your license back in Tennessee after a DUI?
Some drivers in Tennessee may be eligible to apply for a restricted driver’s license to regain their driving privileges after a DUI.
The following is general information, not legal advice, about the conditions you might have to complete before applying for a reinstated license.
Phase 1: Get Started
Consult Your Legal Counsel
License Hearing
Phase 2: Ignition Interlock Device
Schedule Installation
Obtain SR-22 Certificate
Phase 3: Judicial Requirements
Assessment and Education
Pay Fees and Complete Forms
Phase 4: Monitoring and Calibration
Service Appointments
Phase 5: Device Removal
Removal or Early Removal
Information as of 3/1/25.
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Disclaimer
Please note that the information in the following sections is for general informational purposes only. The materials contained herein are not intended to and should not be relied upon or construed as a legal opinion or legal advice or to address all circumstances that might arise. Information may be dated and may not reflect the most current developments. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter. Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Smart Start expressly disclaims all liability regarding actions taken or not taken based on any or all content.
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Get In Touch With A Program Advisor Or Call (800) 831-3299 Now!Understanding Tennessee DUI Requirements
Basic DUI Requirements
Depending on several factors, including your BAC and whether it’s your first DUI, Tennessee’s DUI penalties, as listed by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, can include:
- From $350 to $15,000 in fines
- Up to a year of jail time, with a minimum of 48 hours
- License revocation for one to eight years
- Alcohol and drug treatment programs
- Vehicle seizure and forfeiture
Consequences can be more severe if your DUI arrest included aggravating factors such as a crash, refused BAC test, or a BAC of .15 or higher.
License revocation can be an especially tough penalty, but most drivers can apply for a restricted driver’s license that includes the requirement to have an Ignition Interlock Device installed. Under Tennessee Ignition Interlock laws, you’ll be financially responsible for your Interlock Device, including lease, installation, and other fees and expenses.
License Reinstatement
Once you’ve completed the requirements of your program, you can apply to the state to have your full Tennessee driver’s license restored. Restoring your license in Tennessee requires submitting all of the following, plus any other required documents:
- $100 reinstatement fee
- $50 SR-22 filing fee (if required)
- $75 fee if you didn’t surrender your license when required
- $3 certification fee (if the violation occurred in Tennessee)
- Standard driver’s license fees
How much does an Ignition Interlock Device cost in Tennessee?
We understand that a DUI can be a major financial challenge, so we offer an affordable solution for getting your Ignition Interlock in TN.
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Free, fast, and customized quotes from our friendly Program Advisors -
No long-term contracts required
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Affordable pricing
Free, fast, and customized quotes from our friendly Program Advisors If leasing your IID poses a financial hardship for you and you meet certain requirements, the Tennessee Department of the Treasury’s Electronic Monitoring Indigency Fund (EMIF) can help you afford your device. Learn more about how much an Ignition Interlock near you costs in our IID cost guide for Tennessee.
Why Choose Smart Start in Tennessee?
Your DUI doesn’t have to define your life. With our knowledgeable Program Advisors who are ready to listen and address your needs, Smart Start is here to help you get on the road to a brighter future.
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No need to buy equipment or sign long-term contracts
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30+ service centers, often with same-day installation options
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24/7/365 multilingual customer support
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Easy-to-use Interlock Device technology
Tennessee FAQs
It’s important to thoroughly understand how IIDs work, and what you’ll need to do to stay in compliance with your program. Get fast answers to your most common questions about Interlocks in Tennessee.
What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 6 Topics
How Does It Work?
Show 9 Topics
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 2 Topics
How Can We Help?
Show 3 Topics
How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?
Smart Start devices are compliant with all state and federal requirements. In addition, our devices are certified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
No, you will only need the Ignition Interlock Device installed on the vehicle you will be driving during your requirement.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
If you do not own a vehicle, but you do have an Ignition Interlock requirement, the state of Tennessee will sometimes allow you to complete your requirement by installing an Ignition Interlock on a borrowed vehicle. In order to do this, you will need a letter of permission from the registered owner of the borrowed vehicle stating that you have permission to install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID). Smart Start frequently installs on borrowed vehicles, so this will not pose a problem at any of our service centers as long as you have the required documentation.
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
The state of Tennessee requires all Ignition Interlock Devices to be equipped with a camera. Smart Start will provide a compatible camera at the time of installation.
Does the camera watch me all the time?
No. The camera is only there to take digital stills to accompany each breath test.
Is the Ignition Interlock Device connected to my horn and lights?
Yes, Tennessee state law requires that the Ignition Interlock Device be connected to your horn and lights.
What happens after I get my DUI?
Your driver’s license will be revoked. You may apply for a restricted license, and you may be required install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for a determined period of time. Once you receive this requirement from TN Department of Safety or County Court, contact Smart Start to get your IID installed to complete your Interlock requirement.
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
In the state of Tennessee, you must have an order for an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) before you install your device in order to receive credit for your time with the IID installed.
In addition, Smart Start allows an individual to install an Ignition Interlock Device on his/her vehicle or on the child’s vehicle without a restricted license order. This voluntarily installed Ignition Interlock Device can be removed at any time.
For a bond requirement, Smart Start requires that you provide proof of your bond conditions. For bond requirements, you cannot remove the device without authorization from the court or proof showing that the bond conditions have been lifted or modified.
In addition, Smart Start allows an individual to install an Ignition Interlock Device on his/her vehicle or on the child’s vehicle without a restricted license order. This voluntarily installed Ignition Interlock Device can be removed at any time.
For a bond requirement, Smart Start requires that you provide proof of your bond conditions. For bond requirements, you cannot remove the device without authorization from the court or proof showing that the bond conditions have been lifted or modified.
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DUI? Third? Fourth?
If you have more than one DUI, you will most likely be asked to have your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed for a longer period of time.
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
The state of Tennessee requires that you service your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) once every 30 days.
Where can I go for service? Anywhere, or just within my state?
Tennessee law states that you can service your Ignition Interlock Device at any of Smart Start’s service center locations nationwide.
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
Smart Start of Tennessee will send a record of your service appointments to the State authority you specify at the time of installation at no additional cost to you. Reports are downloaded and sent after each service appointment.
What happens if I violate?
After your fifth violation, you will be locked out of your device. Call customer service, (800) 831-3299, for an unlock code. You will be required to return to a Smart Start service center for calibration, for which you will also be asked to pay a fee. For arrests occurring after July 1, 2016: if you violate within the last 120 days of your required period of interlock, your Ignition Interlock Device requirement may be extended for an additional 120 days from the date of the violation.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
In the state of Tennessee, any and all of the following may constitute a violation:
- Failure to return to the Smart Start service center for calibration every 30 days for the full 365-day period
- Attempting to start your vehicle with a blood alcohol level of .02% or greater without a pass within 10 minutes
- Registering a blood alcohol level of .02% or greater during a rolling re-test without a pass within 10 minutes
- Skipping a rolling re-test within a 6-minute window
- Tampering with or attempting to circumvent the device
How do I know who my state authority is?
In Tennessee, your state authority will be the court, probation, or the Department of Safety.
What do I need to bring to my installation?
Once you have scheduled your Ignition Interlock installation with Smart Start, you will need to bring the following to your Ignition Interlock installation appointment:
- Cash or debit/credit card payment
- Photo identification
- A copy of your Order of Restricted Driver’s License (ORDL)
- Information regarding your state authority
- If indigent, a copy of your uniform affidavit of indigency
- Vehicle registration (or, if you are installing on someone else’s vehicle, a letter of permission from the registered owner stating that you have permission to install an Ignition Interlock Device on the vehicle)
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
Smart Start will provide you with proof of installation, which you will need to send to your state authority so that you receive credit for your time with your Ignition Interlock Device (IID). You will also need to take the proof of installation to the Department of Motor Vehicles to obtain your restricted license.
What do I need for removal?
For arrests occurring after July 1, 2016, you are required to have an Ignition Interlock Device and you will be required to maintain the device for 365 consecutive days with the last 120 days free of any violations to be compliant.
If TN compliant, you will receive an “Interlock Restriction Release Form” from Smart Start of TN by email or post mail if you don’t have an email on file. As well as a TN Department of Safety letter stating they are released. Bring either one of these letters to your service center to be removed.
If the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) was installed as a result of a bond/probation condition, Smart Start requires authorization of release from the Court or Probation Officer to remove the device.
If you wish to remove your Ignition Interlock Device before you are eligible for license reinstatement, email TNRemoval@smartstartinc.com to request an early removal form. You will be required by the TN Department of Safety to surrender your license and obtain a State ID.
What do I need to install voluntarily?
To install a breath alcohol Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle or a family member’s vehicle voluntarily, fill out our online form or call Smart Start at 800.831.3299 to speak with one of our Program Advisors and schedule a voluntary installation appointment. Make sure to let your Program Advisor know that you will not have a permit number or case number.
How can I pay for calibration?
You can pay for calibration at the service center during your service appointment using a credit card.
What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 6 Topics
How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?
Smart Start devices are compliant with all state and federal requirements. In addition, our devices are certified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
No, you will only need the Ignition Interlock Device installed on the vehicle you will be driving during your requirement.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
If you do not own a vehicle, but you do have an Ignition Interlock requirement, the state of Tennessee will sometimes allow you to complete your requirement by installing an Ignition Interlock on a borrowed vehicle. In order to do this, you will need a letter of permission from the registered owner of the borrowed vehicle stating that you have permission to install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID). Smart Start frequently installs on borrowed vehicles, so this will not pose a problem at any of our service centers as long as you have the required documentation.
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
The state of Tennessee requires all Ignition Interlock Devices to be equipped with a camera. Smart Start will provide a compatible camera at the time of installation.
Does the camera watch me all the time?
No. The camera is only there to take digital stills to accompany each breath test.
Is the Ignition Interlock Device connected to my horn and lights?
Yes, Tennessee state law requires that the Ignition Interlock Device be connected to your horn and lights.
How Does It Work?
Show 9 Topics
What happens after I get my DUI?
Your driver’s license will be revoked. You may apply for a restricted license, and you may be required install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for a determined period of time. Once you receive this requirement from TN Department of Safety or County Court, contact Smart Start to get your IID installed to complete your Interlock requirement.
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
In the state of Tennessee, you must have an order for an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) before you install your device in order to receive credit for your time with the IID installed.
In addition, Smart Start allows an individual to install an Ignition Interlock Device on his/her vehicle or on the child’s vehicle without a restricted license order. This voluntarily installed Ignition Interlock Device can be removed at any time.
For a bond requirement, Smart Start requires that you provide proof of your bond conditions. For bond requirements, you cannot remove the device without authorization from the court or proof showing that the bond conditions have been lifted or modified.
In addition, Smart Start allows an individual to install an Ignition Interlock Device on his/her vehicle or on the child’s vehicle without a restricted license order. This voluntarily installed Ignition Interlock Device can be removed at any time.
For a bond requirement, Smart Start requires that you provide proof of your bond conditions. For bond requirements, you cannot remove the device without authorization from the court or proof showing that the bond conditions have been lifted or modified.
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DUI? Third? Fourth?
If you have more than one DUI, you will most likely be asked to have your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed for a longer period of time.
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
The state of Tennessee requires that you service your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) once every 30 days.
Where can I go for service? Anywhere, or just within my state?
Tennessee law states that you can service your Ignition Interlock Device at any of Smart Start’s service center locations nationwide.
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
Smart Start of Tennessee will send a record of your service appointments to the State authority you specify at the time of installation at no additional cost to you. Reports are downloaded and sent after each service appointment.
What happens if I violate?
After your fifth violation, you will be locked out of your device. Call customer service, (800) 831-3299, for an unlock code. You will be required to return to a Smart Start service center for calibration, for which you will also be asked to pay a fee. For arrests occurring after July 1, 2016: if you violate within the last 120 days of your required period of interlock, your Ignition Interlock Device requirement may be extended for an additional 120 days from the date of the violation.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
In the state of Tennessee, any and all of the following may constitute a violation:
- Failure to return to the Smart Start service center for calibration every 30 days for the full 365-day period
- Attempting to start your vehicle with a blood alcohol level of .02% or greater without a pass within 10 minutes
- Registering a blood alcohol level of .02% or greater during a rolling re-test without a pass within 10 minutes
- Skipping a rolling re-test within a 6-minute window
- Tampering with or attempting to circumvent the device
How do I know who my state authority is?
In Tennessee, your state authority will be the court, probation, or the Department of Safety.
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 2 Topics
What do I need to bring to my installation?
Once you have scheduled your Ignition Interlock installation with Smart Start, you will need to bring the following to your Ignition Interlock installation appointment:
- Cash or debit/credit card payment
- Photo identification
- A copy of your Order of Restricted Driver’s License (ORDL)
- Information regarding your state authority
- If indigent, a copy of your uniform affidavit of indigency
- Vehicle registration (or, if you are installing on someone else’s vehicle, a letter of permission from the registered owner stating that you have permission to install an Ignition Interlock Device on the vehicle)
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
Smart Start will provide you with proof of installation, which you will need to send to your state authority so that you receive credit for your time with your Ignition Interlock Device (IID). You will also need to take the proof of installation to the Department of Motor Vehicles to obtain your restricted license.
How Can We Help?
Show 3 Topics
What do I need for removal?
For arrests occurring after July 1, 2016, you are required to have an Ignition Interlock Device and you will be required to maintain the device for 365 consecutive days with the last 120 days free of any violations to be compliant.
If TN compliant, you will receive an “Interlock Restriction Release Form” from Smart Start of TN by email or post mail if you don’t have an email on file. As well as a TN Department of Safety letter stating they are released. Bring either one of these letters to your service center to be removed.
If the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) was installed as a result of a bond/probation condition, Smart Start requires authorization of release from the Court or Probation Officer to remove the device.
If you wish to remove your Ignition Interlock Device before you are eligible for license reinstatement, email TNRemoval@smartstartinc.com to request an early removal form. You will be required by the TN Department of Safety to surrender your license and obtain a State ID.
What do I need to install voluntarily?
To install a breath alcohol Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle or a family member’s vehicle voluntarily, fill out our online form or call Smart Start at 800.831.3299 to speak with one of our Program Advisors and schedule a voluntary installation appointment. Make sure to let your Program Advisor know that you will not have a permit number or case number.
How can I pay for calibration?
You can pay for calibration at the service center during your service appointment using a credit card.
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