What Happens if I Get an Ignition Interlock Violation?

Updated June 23, 2026

If you’re seeing a message like WARN, FAIL, or VIOLATION on your Smart Start Interlock Device, don’t panic. We want your time with Smart Start to be successful and seamless, and we’ll help you understand what’s going on.

Here’s a quick summary of what you should know about Ignition Interlock violations, plus the next steps to take if your device shows a violation reading.

Remember, you can always call our 24/7/365 Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299, including weekends and holidays, for help.

What Is an Interlock Violation?

A violation is a reading on your Interlock Device that registers alcohol at or above your state’s specified fail level. However, not all failed breath samples result in a violation, so pay attention to the specific message your device shows you. (See below for a quick guide to what each one means.)

If you get an IID violation, your vehicle will not be able to start, and your violation will be recorded and sent to your State Authority. You’ll need to have your vehicle towed to a Smart Start service center to get your Interlock Device unlocked.

All states have their own Ignition Interlock requirements regarding violations, but you can ask a Smart Start customer care representative at any time what to do. We’re here to help you stay compliant 24/7, and we can also add a note to your file if you think you received a violation by mistake and want to contest it.

Understanding the Three Types of Interlock Fail Readings

WARN

A warn message on your Ignition Interlock Device means that alcohol is present in your breath sample, but is below your state’s fail level. The device will not stop your vehicle following a warn result. However, be very careful: It’s possible that you could fail subsequent tests if you decide to continue driving.

FAIL

A fail message on your Ignition Interlock Device means that alcohol is detected at or above your state’s specific fail level. Depending on your state’s standards, this may or may not escalate to a recorded violation.

If your initial test is a FAIL result, you will not be able to start your vehicle. You may be able to try again, but failing multiple breath samples in a row will often trigger a violation. If you need assistance, our Customer Care center is available 24/7/365 at (800) 831-3299.

VIOLATION

If you see this message, it means you have received a recorded violation. You can get a violation for giving a sample above the fail point, but you can also receive one for other actions like tampering with or circumventing your IID.

The specific message you see will tell you about which violation has been recorded:

• Initial BAC – Alcohol is present during the initial test
• RRTEST – Alcohol is present during a rolling retest
• CIRC – The Interlock Device senses tampering or circumvention
• TEMPLOCK – A test detected a low level of alcohol, and the Device has been temporarily locked based on the state’s limits
• RRSKIP – A rolling retest has been skipped

What Happens When You Receive an IID Violation?

The specific consequences for receiving an IID violation can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances of the violation. Talk to your attorney or consult the laws and regulations of your particular jurisdiction.

In general, consequences for an IID violation can include the following:

• Extended IID Requirement: In many jurisdictions, receiving a violation can result in an extension of the IID requirement. The length of the extension may depend on the severity of the violation and the number of previous violations.
• Driver’s License Suspension: Violations may lead to a temporary suspension or revocation of the driver’s license. The duration of the license suspension varies depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances.
• Fines and Penalties: There may be fines associated with IID violations. The amount of the fine can depend on the jurisdiction and the number of previous violations. Repeat offenses may result in higher fines and penalties.
• Legal Consequences: If a driver is caught tampering with or circumventing their interlock, they may face additional legal consequences, such as criminal charges or probation violations.
• Program Non-Compliance: Some jurisdictions have specific Ignition Interlock programs for individuals required to use IIDs. Violations may be considered non-compliance with the program, which can have additional consequences, such as mandatory counseling or educational courses.

What Is Violation Lockout (VIOL LOCK)?

When you exceed a set number of violations, your IID will enter a lockout mode and display a VIOL LOCK message. Once lockout mode starts, you’ll be unable to start your vehicle until you get your device serviced. Depending on your program requirements and state law, you may experience a violation lockout after just one offense.

Here’s how to interpret the message:

• If you see a “VIOL LOCK” message followed by numbers counting down, this means that you have entered a grace period. The numbers are a countdown until the IID locks down your vehicle. You need to get to a Smart Start service center right away and have your device serviced by a technician.
• If you do not see a series of numbers following your “VIOL LOCK” notice, you may have exceeded the violation grace period, which means that you’ll need to have your car towed to the service center to have your device serviced.

In some states, your device won’t display a countdown. If you’re still able to start your vehicle, take it to a Smart Start service center immediately.

How to Get an Unlock Code

If a series of errors has led to a Smart Start “VIOL LOCK” status, we allow you to obtain a one-time, six-hour unlock code. You can obtain your unlock code by calling 1-800-880-3394 or by completing this ticket.

This one-time, six hour unlock code is Smart Start’s helping hand to you so you can avoid towing your vehicle to the service center. However, once you obtain and activate your unlock code, you typically only have six hours to drive your vehicle to the nearest Smart Start service center.

Unfortunately, we aren’t allowed to offer unlock codes everywhere, or we have to offer them with different rules in different states to comply with state regulations. Take note if you live in any of these states:

• If you live in Oklahoma or Washington, we are not authorized to provide you with an unlock code, and your vehicle must be towed to the nearest service center.
• If you live in the state of Kentucky, you will only have three hours to service your device following unlock code entry.
• If you live in Missouri, Michigan, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Kansas, or Iowa, you’ll need to contact a different office to obtain your unlock code. Here are those phone numbers for your reference:
  • Michigan & Wisconsin: Call 888-234-0198.
  • Nebraska, Kansas, & Iowa: Call (800) 831-3299.
  • Missouri: Call 800-246-3631.

How to Avoid IID Violations

The best way to deal with Ignition Interlock Device violations is to avoid them in the first place. Here’s how to make sure you’re always compliant to avoid violations and lockouts:

• Never drink any alcohol before driving. The Interlock Device’s fuel cell sensor is sensitive and well-calibrated.
• Rinse your mouth out with water before you give a sample to make sure you’ve gotten rid of any mouthwash, breath spray, or foods that can trigger your IID.
• Make sure to pay attention to rolling retest notifications while you drive, and keep up with your testing and calibration appointments for your IID. Missing a calibration appointment can be a violation on its own, so do whatever you need to ensure you make it there.

Smart Start Support and Next Steps

Smart Start makes a simple promise to our customers: 24/7/365 support, whether you need help getting back on the road, or you have questions about your device. Just call us at (800) 831-3299 for whatever you need.

• TIP: You can check your violation point balance on your Smart Start IID by calling our support line, then by pressing # then 3 on your mobile keypad.

Need to get to a shop? Find a Smart Start service center near you, or check our client portal for more options and information specific to you.