When Do I Need an Ignition Interlock in Texas?
Updated Feb 15, 2024
In Texas, you may need an Ignition Interlock upon a DWI conviction. Texas is an all-offender Ignition Interlock state, which means you’ll most likely need an Ignition Interlock whether it is a first or repeat offense. However, the decision for an Ignition Interlock requirement in Texas is up to the judge in your county of conviction. The judge can make this decision based on several factors such as your type of condition, number of offenses, and more.
As of January 2018, here are the different cases based on your condition where an Ignition Interlock Device is mandatory according to Texas Law.
Condition of Bond with a DWI Conviction
| Offense Number | Ignition Interlock Requirement? |
| First | Judge’s Discretion |
| .15 BAC or Higher | Judge’s Discretion |
| Subsequent | Yes |
Condition of Bond with Intoxication Assault or Intoxication Manslaughter Conviction
| Offense Number | Ignition Interlock Requirement? |
| First | Yes |
| Subsequent | Yes |
Condition of Probation with a DWI Conviction
| Offense Number | Ignition Interlock Requirement? |
| First | Judge’s Discretion |
| .15 BAC or Higher | Yes |
| Subsequent | Yes, not less than 50 percent of your supervision period |
Probation Condition with Intoxication Assault or Intoxication Manslaughter Conviction
| Offense Number | Ignition Interlock Requirement? |
| First | Judge’s Discretion |
| .15 BAC or Higher | Yes |
| Subsequent | Yes, not less than 50 percent of your supervision period |
Occupational License Restriction
If your driver’s license is suspended due to a DWI offense, you may be eligible to apply for a restricted Interlock license, or occupational, license. To be eligible, you need insurance (SR-22), pay a $10 Interlock license fee to the Department of Public Safety (DPS), and install your Ignition Interlock on all vehicles you operate. Keep in mind that you must apply for your occupational license 15 days after the DWI charge.
| Offense Number | Ignition Interlock Requirement? |
| First | Yes |
| Subsequent | Yes, not less than 50 percent of your supervision period |
If you are a minor and placed on probation, a judge will most likely order you an Ignition Interlock under Texas state law.
When Do I Install an Ignition Interlock?
For condition of bond, you’ll need to obtain your Interlock Device in Texas before the 30th day after the date you were released on bond. For probation, you’ll need your device before the 30th day after your DWI charge.
How Long Will I Need an Ignition Interlock in Texas?
Since Texas is a Judicial Ignition Interlock state, the decision for how long you’ll need your Ignition Interlock is up to your judge. However, a first DWI offense with a BAC of .08 or higher usually needs an Ignition Interlock between 90 days to one year. For a second offense, it can be between 180 days to two years. Subsequent offenses can last between one and two years.
Smart Start is the ultimate Ignition Interlock provider in Texas with the most service locations state-wide. If you have any questions about your Ignition Interlock Device requirement or your Smart Start program, you can call our team at (800) 831-3299.
Need an Ignition Interlock in Texas?
Smart Start is a Texas born and raised vendor with a reliable device, more than 100 locations and local customer service that’s 24/7/365. To schedule an Ignition Interlock Device installation appointment, call us today at (800) 831-3299 or fill out our short online form.
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