How Do Interlocks Help Me with a DUI License Suspension?

Do you know how Ignition Interlocks help those who are under a license suspension?

If applicable in your state, there is an option for people with a DUI conviction and/or arrest to install an Interlock Device to receive restricted driving privileges. This means you’ll be able to legally drive again with an Interlock Device in your vehicle and get on with your everyday routine.

Let’s look at how Interlock Devices have made our roads safer with states providing the option (if eligible) for people to install the device and drive again rather than wait out a hard suspension period. First, let’s define what a hard driver’s license suspension means.

What Exactly is a Hard Driver’s License Suspension?

In many states, you are faced with a driver’s license suspension or revocation upon your DUI arrest and/or conviction. In fact, there are many states that have an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) law when it comes to DUI cases. The ALR law means the removal of a driver’s license at the time of a DUI arrest when failing or refusing a chemical test.

A hard license suspension in short means that you cannot drive at all during your suspension period. It’s unfortunate, but there is nothing that prevents someone  from driving while their driver’s license is suspended. 50 to 75 percent of individuals with DUI convictions continue to drive on a suspended license. This statistic is why states have passed strong Ignition Interlock laws. Keep in mind that driving on a suspended license also means there will be much tougher penalties, fines and more from your court.

But there are other ways your DUI case could go rather than facing a hard license suspension and not driving at all. This is where a “soft” suspension period may come in – essentially, you are still on a suspension period, but you’re given the privilege to drive again if an Ignition Interlock is installed into your vehicle. Let’s go over this option in more detail.

Getting on the Road Sooner Rather Than Later with an Interlock Device

In some circumstances in certain states, your arresting officer will confiscate your regular driver’s license and hand you a temporary restricted driving permit. This allows you to drive up until your hearing date, which handles your administrative license suspension and what penalties you will face. During your hearing, there could be an option if you are eligible to install an Interlock Device. You may be required to install the device anyway to reinstate your driving privileges.

When states give people an option who are arrested and/or convicted of a DUI to install an Interlock Device during this suspension period, it paves the way for safer roads and more meaningful lifestyles. Why? Because there are many people who choose to drive on a hard license suspension anyway. And with no technology like Interlock Devices in their vehicles to hold them accountable, making poor driving decisions while impaired can lead to disastrous consequences.

If you are eligible to do so, opting to install an Interlock Device gets you back on the road safely and legally. If this situation is like yours, feel free to call our Customer Care Center for Interlock assistance at (800) 831-3299. We’ll provide you next steps, your closest Smart Start service center and pricing so you can drive again.

Installing an Ignition Interlock Device?

Smart Start offers many state specials and discounts! Take advantage of this offer and schedule your installation appointment now by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our short online form.