When Will I Need an Ignition Interlock in Tennessee?

You may need an Ignition Interlock in Tennessee if you were convicted or arrested because of a DUI. In Tennessee, Ignition Interlocks are a requirement for most DUI cases, whether it is a first or repeat offense. You do have an option to drive sooner rather than later, however, with a restricted driver’s license.

Restricted Driver’s License in Tennessee

A restricted driver’s license is available for some DUI cases in Tennessee, but you must be eligible for this license under various circumstances.  If you do have this option, you should install your Ignition Interlock before you apply for your restricted driver’s license. You can apply for this type of license with the Department of Safety’s Order for Restricted Driver License form.

Below you can read more details on who is eligible for a restricted driver’s license. Plus, find out how long you’ll need an Ignition Interlock in Tennessee.

First DUI Offense

For a first DUI case in Tennessee, you have the option to apply for a restricted driver’s license during your revocation (or license cancellation) period. You will have your Ignition Interlock for a minimum of 365 consecutive days.

If you chose to wait out your revocation period, you will be required to install an Ignition Interlock for a minimum of 365 days upon reinstatement of your driver license.

Second DUI Offense

A restricted driver’s license is also available under second-time DUI offenses if you install an Ignition Interlock and are otherwise eligible for the restricted license. The license revocation period will last two years.

Third DUI Offense

A restricted driver’s license is also available under a third DUI offense if you install an Ignition Interlock and are otherwise eligible for the restricted license. The license revocation period will last six years.

Fourth and Subsequent DUI Offense

A fourth DUI offense means an eight-year license revocation, but a restricted license will be an option if you are eligible. You need to install an Ignition Interlock as part of the restricted license requirements for eight years.

Additional Ignition Interlock Tips

In Tennessee, your final 120 consecutive days with the Ignition Interlock need to be violation-free to remove the device. Under any offense number, if you had two prior DUI convictions within five years, an Ignition Interlock will be a requirement for an additional six months after your license reinstatement.  In addition, if you refused your breath or blood test and have a prior DUI conviction, you will be required to have an Ignition Interlock.

Any of these offenses below means a restricted license or Ignition Interlock in Tennessee is not available. You instead need to serve your driver’s license revocation period:

• Vehicular Assault (serious injury to another person by a DUI driver)
• Vehicular Homicide
• Aggravated Vehicular Assault While Driving Intoxicated

If you do need an Ignition Interlock in Tennessee, Smart Start can get you back on the road the quickest. We provide an affordable program, a discreet device and 24/7/365, knowledgeable customer service. We can help answer any of your Ignition Interlock-related questions!

Install a Smart Start Ignition Interlock in Tennessee Now

To schedule an installation appointment, call Smart Start today at (800) 831-3299 or fill out our online form.