When Will I Need an Ignition Interlock in Iowa?

If you are convicted of an OWI and your driver’s license is revoked, you may need an Ignition Interlock in Iowa. Recently, Iowa passed an all-offender Ignition Interlock law, which includes first-time OWI cases who had a BAC of .08 or higher.

Iowa’s law used to state that first-time OWI offenses with a .10 BAC or higher must install an Ignition Interlock. In any case, for first-time offenses, your license revocation will last six months, but you can apply right away for a temporary restricted license, or TRL, which will allow you limited driving privileges if you install an Ignition Interlock.

When Can I Apply for a Temporary Restricted License?

• If this is a second OWI case, you license revocation will last for one year. You may apply for the temporary restricted license after 45 days from your arrest date.
• Third-time OWI cases will have their license revoked for six years. You can apply for the temporary restricted license after one year.

The temporary restricted license will allow you to drive to and from work, doctors’ appointments, court appearances, counseling services or transporting a dependent to school or another caregiver. If you choose to not get a TRL, you will still need to install an Ignition Interlock but you’ll have to wait a year until installation on a suspended license.

How Do I Obtain the Temporary Restricted License Application?

You can find the Application for a Temporary Restricted License on the Iowa DOT site. When you are on the site, right-click, ‘430100.pdf’ and click ‘save link as…’ to download the form. Then, open the form from your Adobe Reader on your computer. If you are having trouble obtaining the form, you can call the Iowa DOT at 1-800-532-1121 or 515-244-8725.

How Long Will I Need an Ignition Interlock in Iowa?

The average time you’ll need an Ignition Interlock is six months for a first-time OWI and a year for second OWI cases, but this can vary.

Have any questions? Iowa has an option for drivers to view their reinstatement requirements online if their driver’s license is suspended or revoked. If you have any questions related to your Ignition Interlock program, you can call Smart Start at (800) 831-3299, and our 24/7/365 Customer Care Center will assist you.

Need an Ignition Interlock in Iowa?

Smart Start is Iowa’s best Ignition Interlock provider with an affordable program and a reliable device. Schedule your installation appointment today at (800) 831-3299 or fill out our short online form.