What to Expect Out of a Smart Start Texas Ignition Interlock Program

Do you need to use an Ignition Interlock because of a DWI? It can seem overwhelming right now on top of your other DWI requirements, but with Smart Start, your Ignition Interlock doesn’t have to be a stressful process. We’ll walk you through what an Ignition Interlock is and what you can expect out of your Smart Start Texas Ignition Interlock program.

What is an Ignition Interlock Exactly?

First, let’s briefly go over what an Ignition Interlock is. The Ignition Interlock is a handheld car breathalyzer that analyzes your breath alcohol concentration or BrAC, which is like your BAC level, before starting your vehicle. In Texas, your Smart Start Ignition Interlock breath test is a blow-hum pattern, which means blowing into the device while humming at the same time. You will also be providing tests throughout your drive to continue proving that you are not drinking and driving. We’ll go over these types of tests in the Random Running Retests section.

Now that you know a bit more about your Ignition Interlock, let’s walk through the Texas Ignition Interlock program and what you can expect throughout your time with your device.

The Ignition Interlock Installation Appointment

You are told by your court or legal representative that you need to install an Ignition Interlock. Once this happens, all you need to do is research and decide on which Ignition Interlock provider. If you choose Smart Start, just call our Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299. All our service centers are DPS-certified, which means we are approved by the state of Texas to install and provide all Ignition Interlock services such as transfers and removals.

Once you call (800) 831-3299 to schedule a Smart Start Interlock installation appointment, you’ll be closer to driving again! Make sure to bring the following items with you to your appointment.

• Two forms of photo ID (examples: state-issued ID, passport, credit card, etc.)
• Any court paperwork provided to you
• Proof of residence (you can use your car insurance form/paperwork IF your address listed is current and correct!)
• Car insurance and vehicle registration documents
• Payment for your installation and first month’s lease

* Need to use someone else’s vehicle? You will need to have a letter of permission notarized by the owner stating you can install an Ignition Interlock in their vehicle.

During your installation appointment, our friendly technician will help train you with your Ignition Interlock so you know how to properly take a test. If you need to re-visit your training materials, you can watch our training videos or read our manuals (English and Spanish).

Now let’s look at what random running retests are, which are the tests you need to take during your drive.

Random Running Retests

Once you pass your initial breath test, you will be able to start your vehicle. During your drive, you’ll be prompted from your Ignition Interlock to provide a breath sample. These tests are called random running retests. You may have also heard the term “random rolling retests.” For all random running retests, Smart Start advises pulling over safely first! In Texas, you will have up to six minutes to provide a test. Keep in mind that state-approved Ignition Interlocks will never stop your vehicle while it is in motion, even if a running retest is failed or skipped!

During your program, you’ll be visiting your service center on a frequent basis. Let’s go over your service appointments, which you must schedule and go to until the end of your Texas Ignition Interlock program.

Calibration Appointments

In Texas, you will need to visit your Ignition Interlock service center every 30 days, or whenever your court requires these services. It could be weekly, bi-monthly, etc.  These calibration appointments only last a few minutes but are important! They allow our technicians to check your device to make sure everything is running smoothly, and to refresh the Ignition Interlock for your next month of use. If you have any questions, our technicians can also assist you at this time.

Unlock Codes

There may come a point during your Ignition Interlock program where you’ll need a Unlock Code. Unlock Codes allow you to unlock your device from Lockout Mode and are a more convenient alternative rather than towing your vehicle and paying the fees. In Texas, you are given one Unlock Code between calibration appointments. The code is free of charge and will last up to six hours for you to visit our service center to get your device checked out.

Removing Your Ignition Interlock

If you are nearing the end of your Smart Start Texas Ignition Interlock requirement period, then congratulations! Make sure to follow these steps to make sure you are authorized to remove your Ignition Interlock.

• Your court contact can submit the authorization court order paperwork to remove your Ignition Interlock to removals@smartstartinc.com or fax to 972-929-6638.
• Make sure to include your full name and date of birth when sending your removal authorization paperwork.
• Please allow one business day for our team to process your documents!
• A Customer Care Center agent will notify you of your removal eligibility date and your next steps.

Once these steps are complete, we will schedule a removal appointment at your Smart Start service center.

Ignition Interlock Program Questions

Smart Start clients have access to our customer care team 24/7/365. We are standing by to answer any Ignition Interlock questions you may have at (800) 831-3299. You can trust Smart Start to keep yourself compliant with your court Ignition Interlock order until you are eligible to remove your device. Plus, we provide our clients more than 100 service locations throughout Texas!

You also have many services available to you to make your program easier online. See below what you can do right from our website.

• Receive a Unlock Code
• Have a vehicle service appointment? We have instructions for your mechanic to follow so you don’t have to worry about your Ignition Interlock.
• Need to add a note to your account?

Need to Install a Texas Ignition Interlock?

Smart Start is ready to help you get back on the road with the most trusted Ignition Interlock in Texas. Schedule your installation appointment now by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our short online form. We’ll take care of the rest!