What are the consequences you might face after getting a DUI in California? These resources can help you understand some common DUI requirements for California drivers.
Smart Start Ignition Interlock: We’re Here for the Golden State
A DUI in California can put the brakes on your job, your life, and even that trip to Yosemite or Big Sur — but Smart Start’s Ignition Interlock Devices can help you get on the road again. With our affordable pricing, 24/7 multilingual support from compassionate Program Advisors, and fast installation available in cities across California, Smart Start is the smarter solution when you need Ignition Interlock services near you.
Talk to Smart Start today to get started. Our Program Advisors will create a custom quote for you on a California Ignition Interlock solution that fits your needs and program requirements.
How do you get your license back in California after a DUI?
After a DUI in California, some drivers may be eligible for restricted driving privileges if they complete certain requirements.
The following is general information, not legal advice, about the conditions you might have to complete before applying for a reinstated license.
Phase 1: Get Started
Consult Your Legal Counsel
License Hearing
Phase 2: Ignition Interlock Device
Schedule Installation
Obtain SR-22 Certificate
Phase 3: Judicial Requirements
Assessment and Education
Pay Fees and Complete Forms
Phase 4: Monitoring and Calibration
Service Appointments
Phase 5: Device Removal
Removal or Early Removal
Information as of 3/1/25.
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Disclaimer
Please note that the information in the following sections is for general informational purposes only. The materials contained herein are not intended to and should not be relied upon or construed as a legal opinion or legal advice or to address all circumstances that might arise. Information may be dated and may not reflect the most current developments. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter. Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Smart Start expressly disclaims all liability regarding actions taken or not taken based on any or all content.
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Get Started With Our Program Advisors Today!
Get In Touch With A Program Advisor Or Call (800) 831-3299 Now!Understanding California DUI Requirements
Basic DUI Requirements
According to the California Driver’s Handbook published by the California DMV, the penalties for a DUI can include up to six months in jail, a fine, impoundment of your vehicle by law enforcement, and civil lawsuits if your DUI resulted in deaths or injuries. For many drivers, however, the most costly and inconvenient penalties are the ones associated with having your driver’s license suspended.
As the California DMV also notes, California law allows the DMV to impose a license suspension for any driver who refuses a drug or alcohol test from law enforcement. If you take the test and your sample indicates a BAC of .08% or more, or you’re otherwise impaired, California’s Administrative Per Se law likewise requires the DMV to suspend your driving privilege.
License Reinstatement
A license suspension in California can be a major impediment to your career, relationships, and other parts of your life — so how can you get your license back? The California Driver’s Handbook identifies the following steps that you’ll have to take:
- Completing a DUI program
- Obtaining a California SR-22 to certify a specified level of insurance coverage
- Paying any applicable fees
- Potentially installing an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on your vehicle
How long you’ll be required to lease your IID and keep it installed varies based on the conditions of your program. Talk to your lawyer and check the California DMV’s Interlock Device information to find out more about California Ignition Interlock Devices and determine the specific requirements for your program and vehicle.
How much does an Ignition Interlock Device cost in California?
We understand that a DUI can be a major financial challenge, so we offer an affordable solution for getting your Ignition Interlock in California.
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Free, fast, and customized quotes from our friendly Program Advisors -
No long-term contracts required
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Affordable pricing
Free, fast, and customized quotes from our friendly Program Advisors Need financial assistance to help you afford your IID lease? Ask your attorney about whether you might be eligible for reduced IID fees. For more information on the cost of an Ignition Interlock near you, see our IID cost guide for California.
Why Choose Smart Start in California?
Your DUI doesn’t have to define your life. With our knowledgeable Program Advisors who are ready to listen and address your needs, Smart Start is here to help you get on the road to a brighter future.
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No need to buy equipment or sign long-term contracts
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100+ service centers, often with same-day installation options
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24/7/365 multilingual customer support
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Easy-to-use Interlock Device technology
California Forms
As part of your Ignition Interlock requirement, you may be required to complete specific forms. Find the forms you need right here!
California FAQs
It’s important to thoroughly understand how IIDs work, and what you’ll need to do to stay in compliance with your program. Get fast answers to your most common questions about Interlocks in California.
What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 5 Topics
How Does It Work?
Show 9 Topics
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 2 Topics
How Can We Help?
Show 3 Topics
How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?
Smart Start’s IID is compliant with all state and federal requirements, and we are certified as an IID provider by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You’ll even find us on the DMV-approved list of providers. Our Ignition Interlock Devices are tested and certified to meet the standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
Yes. California state law dictates that any vehicle you drive during your requirement needs to have an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed. Additionally, any vehicle registered to you will also need to have an interlock Ignition Device installed.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
In the state of California, if you have an IID requirement, but you don’t own a vehicle, you will need to borrow a vehicle to comply with your Ignition Interlock requirement.
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
In the state of California, you will only need a camera or a GPS with your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) if your judge orders it. Smart Start can provide any and all of these additions.
Does the camera watch me all the time?
No, but your camera may take random pictures in addition to photos of your tests.
What happens after I get my DUI?
If you get a DUI in California, your license will automatically be suspended. If you get an attorney, your attorney can file a set-aside that postpones your suspension until your court date. If you’re in the middle of a 90-day hard suspension, you must not drive, even with an Ignition Interlock Device (IID). To be eligible for an IID, you’ll need to complete your 90-day hard license suspension due to drunk driving, pay all your fees, enroll in a DUI program, and have proof of SR-22 insurance. After you’ve completed these things, you can find out if you’re eligible for an IID through the Mandatory Actions Unit (MAU), a division of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
In Riverside County, after you get a minute order from the court, you will have five days to contact Riverside University Health System Drinking Driver Program.
ONLY 4 COUNTIES in California order that an IID is mandatory—Sacramento, Los Angeles, Alameda, and Tulare. In every other county, an IID requirement is at the judge’s discretion. Interlock laws vary by California county, so consult a local DUI attorney for legal advice if facing a DUI charge.
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DUI? Third? Fourth?
In the state of California, the general Ignition Interlock Device (IID) requirements for a DUI offender are as follows:
- 1st DUI offense: five months with an Ignition Interlock Device
- 2nd DUI offense: 12 months with an Ignition Interlock Device
- 3rd DUI offense: 18 months with an Ignition Interlock Device
- 4th DUI offense: 24 months with an Ignition Interlock Device
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
In California, you must receive an order for an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation from the State authority (either the California DMV or the court) before you install your Ignition Interlock Device if you want to receive credit for your time with your device. You will need proof of installation to receive your restricted driver’s license.
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
California law dictates that your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) needs to be serviced every 30-60 days. For download services, it is most beneficial if you arrive at a Smart Start service center every 30 days for service.
Where can I go for service? Anywhere, or just within my state?
California state law allows you to service your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) at any Smart Start service center nationwide.
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
Smart Start will automatically send a record of your service appointments to your California State authority on your behalf at no additional cost to you.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
In the state of California, any and all of the following may constitute a violation:
- Having a breath alcohol concentration above the state-dictated level
- Skipping a rolling re-test
- Attempting to circumvent or tamper with the device
- Failure to go in for service
What happens if I violate?
In the state of California, you are allowed five violations within a service period before your violation will result in a violation lockout. Once your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) goes into violation lockout, you will need to take your device to your nearest Smart Start service center for a calibration. You may also have to pay a fee.
How do I know who my state authority is?
“State authority” is a general term for the entity that has ordered you to install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID). In California, this will be the DMV (MAU) or your court.
What do I need to bring to my installation?
Once you have scheduled your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation with Smart Start, you will need to bring the following to your IID installation appointment:
- Two valid forms of identification (at least one with a picture)
- Vehicle registration (if the vehicle doesn’t belong to you, you’ll need a letter of permission from the registered owner)
- Payment for your first month’s lease and installation
- Either a DMV or a court order demonstrating the need for an Ignition Interlock Device
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
Once you have installed your Ignition Interlock Device, you’ll need to bring your DL form (for both conditions) and your case number (if they have a court order) to your state authority.
What do I need for removal?
In order to remove your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in the state of California, you will need some kind of authorization from your State authority and/or the DMV (MAU). Once you have that authorization, you can call 800.831.3299 to schedule your removal, or email removals@smartstartinc.com to verify your eligibility for removal and schedule your appointment.
What do I need to install voluntarily?
To install a breath alcohol Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle or a family member’s vehicle voluntarily, fill out our online form or call Smart Start at 800.831.3299 to speak with one of our Program Advisors and schedule a voluntary installation appointment. Make sure to let your Program Advisor know that you will not have a permit number or case number.
How can I pay for calibration?
You can pay for calibration at the service center during your service appointment using a credit card.
What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 5 Topics
How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?
Smart Start’s IID is compliant with all state and federal requirements, and we are certified as an IID provider by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You’ll even find us on the DMV-approved list of providers. Our Ignition Interlock Devices are tested and certified to meet the standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
Yes. California state law dictates that any vehicle you drive during your requirement needs to have an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed. Additionally, any vehicle registered to you will also need to have an interlock Ignition Device installed.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
In the state of California, if you have an IID requirement, but you don’t own a vehicle, you will need to borrow a vehicle to comply with your Ignition Interlock requirement.
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
In the state of California, you will only need a camera or a GPS with your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) if your judge orders it. Smart Start can provide any and all of these additions.
Does the camera watch me all the time?
No, but your camera may take random pictures in addition to photos of your tests.
How Does It Work?
Show 9 Topics
What happens after I get my DUI?
If you get a DUI in California, your license will automatically be suspended. If you get an attorney, your attorney can file a set-aside that postpones your suspension until your court date. If you’re in the middle of a 90-day hard suspension, you must not drive, even with an Ignition Interlock Device (IID). To be eligible for an IID, you’ll need to complete your 90-day hard license suspension due to drunk driving, pay all your fees, enroll in a DUI program, and have proof of SR-22 insurance. After you’ve completed these things, you can find out if you’re eligible for an IID through the Mandatory Actions Unit (MAU), a division of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
In Riverside County, after you get a minute order from the court, you will have five days to contact Riverside University Health System Drinking Driver Program.
ONLY 4 COUNTIES in California order that an IID is mandatory—Sacramento, Los Angeles, Alameda, and Tulare. In every other county, an IID requirement is at the judge’s discretion. Interlock laws vary by California county, so consult a local DUI attorney for legal advice if facing a DUI charge.
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DUI? Third? Fourth?
In the state of California, the general Ignition Interlock Device (IID) requirements for a DUI offender are as follows:
- 1st DUI offense: five months with an Ignition Interlock Device
- 2nd DUI offense: 12 months with an Ignition Interlock Device
- 3rd DUI offense: 18 months with an Ignition Interlock Device
- 4th DUI offense: 24 months with an Ignition Interlock Device
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
In California, you must receive an order for an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation from the State authority (either the California DMV or the court) before you install your Ignition Interlock Device if you want to receive credit for your time with your device. You will need proof of installation to receive your restricted driver’s license.
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
California law dictates that your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) needs to be serviced every 30-60 days. For download services, it is most beneficial if you arrive at a Smart Start service center every 30 days for service.
Where can I go for service? Anywhere, or just within my state?
California state law allows you to service your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) at any Smart Start service center nationwide.
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
Smart Start will automatically send a record of your service appointments to your California State authority on your behalf at no additional cost to you.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
In the state of California, any and all of the following may constitute a violation:
- Having a breath alcohol concentration above the state-dictated level
- Skipping a rolling re-test
- Attempting to circumvent or tamper with the device
- Failure to go in for service
What happens if I violate?
In the state of California, you are allowed five violations within a service period before your violation will result in a violation lockout. Once your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) goes into violation lockout, you will need to take your device to your nearest Smart Start service center for a calibration. You may also have to pay a fee.
How do I know who my state authority is?
“State authority” is a general term for the entity that has ordered you to install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID). In California, this will be the DMV (MAU) or your court.
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 2 Topics
What do I need to bring to my installation?
Once you have scheduled your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation with Smart Start, you will need to bring the following to your IID installation appointment:
- Two valid forms of identification (at least one with a picture)
- Vehicle registration (if the vehicle doesn’t belong to you, you’ll need a letter of permission from the registered owner)
- Payment for your first month’s lease and installation
- Either a DMV or a court order demonstrating the need for an Ignition Interlock Device
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
Once you have installed your Ignition Interlock Device, you’ll need to bring your DL form (for both conditions) and your case number (if they have a court order) to your state authority.
How Can We Help?
Show 3 Topics
What do I need for removal?
In order to remove your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in the state of California, you will need some kind of authorization from your State authority and/or the DMV (MAU). Once you have that authorization, you can call 800.831.3299 to schedule your removal, or email removals@smartstartinc.com to verify your eligibility for removal and schedule your appointment.
What do I need to install voluntarily?
To install a breath alcohol Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle or a family member’s vehicle voluntarily, fill out our online form or call Smart Start at 800.831.3299 to speak with one of our Program Advisors and schedule a voluntary installation appointment. Make sure to let your Program Advisor know that you will not have a permit number or case number.
How can I pay for calibration?
You can pay for calibration at the service center during your service appointment using a credit card.
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