Navigating a DUI in Florida can be stressful and overwhelming, and it’s important to understand the consequences you could be facing. While you should always ask your attorney for the most accurate information about potential outcomes of your DUI and any related charges, the general information provided below can provide some helpful insight.
Smart Start Ignition Interlock: We’re Here for the Sunshine State
A DUI might leave you feeling like you’re stuck under a rain cloud — but with our easy-to-use Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) Smart Start can help you get back on the road and into that famous Florida sunshine. We offer Ignition Interlock services near you with affordable pricing, a compassionate customer care team with 24/7 multilingual support, and skilled technicians who can install your IID quickly.
Smart Start’s Program Advisors are ready to assist. Get in touch now for a free quote tailored to your program requirements.
How do you get your license back in Florida after a DUI?
Florida allows some drivers with a DUI to apply to FLHSMV for a hardship reinstatement of their license with certain conditions.
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 March 1, 2025.
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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 In Touch With A Program Advisor Or Call (800) 831-3299 Now!Understanding Florida DUI Requirements
Basic DUI Requirements
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, a driver getting their first DUI could be subject to:
- A fine of up to $1,000
- A license suspension of up to one year
- Up to six months of jail time
- Completion of an approved DUI school program
For drivers with a higher BAC, a minor in the vehicle, multiple DUIs, or other aggravating circumstances, penalties can be significantly heavier.
Many Florida drivers who get a DUI will also be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device in their vehicle. Per FLHSMV, any driver on their second DUI conviction — or on their first conviction with at least a 0.15% BAC and/or a minor in the vehicle — may be required to install an IID. First offenders without aggravating circumstances may also have to install an IID if the court orders it. All costs related to the IID are the driver’s responsibility, including the monthly lease paid to the IID provider, installation, and other fees and expenses.
License Reinstatement
Florida allows some drivers with DUIs to apply to FLHSMV for a hardship reinstatement of their license if a license suspension puts an undue burden on the person’s professional life. Talk to your attorney about a hardship application if you think you might be eligible. Often, drivers who get a hardship exemption are required to use an IID or attend a DUI school program as a condition of reinstatement.
When your license suspension period is over and you’re ready to have your license reinstated, you’ll need to provide documentation that proves you completed a DUI program, among other requirements. You’ll also be required to pay applicable fees and provide an FR-44 form proving that you have insurance in a specified amount. See the FLHSMV website for more detailed information.
How much does an Ignition Interlock Device cost in Florida?
We understand that a DUI can be a major financial challenge, so we offer an affordable solution for getting your Ignition Interlock Device in Florida.
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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 For drivers experiencing financial hardship that meet certain requirements, Florida offers a reduced-cost IID program with lower fees. Learn more about how much an Ignition Interlock near you costs in our IID cost guide for Florida.
Why Choose Smart Start in Florida?
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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60+ 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
Florida Forms
As part of your Ignition Interlock requirement, you may be required to complete specific forms. Find the forms you need right here!
Florida 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 Florida.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
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How Does It Work?
Show 8 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 Ignition Interlock Devices are tested for program compliance. Smart Start is on the list of approved providers for the state of Florida, and our Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are tested to meet the standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
Florida DUI law states that you’re required to have an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed in every vehicle registered in your name.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
According to Florida DUI laws, if you have an Ignition Interlock Device requirement, but you don’t own a vehicle, you will be required to install the Ignition Interlock Device on whichever vehicle you drive. If you will be using someone else’s vehicle, you’ll need his/her written permission to have the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed on that vehicle.
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
In Florida, cameras are required for every Ignition Interlock Device (IID).
Does the camera watch me all the time?
No, the camera only takes pictures when you submit a breath test. There is no live video feed.
What happens after I get my DUI?
Once you receive your DUI in Florida, you will either go before a judge, or your attorney will enroll you in a pre-trial diversion program.
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
In the state of Florida, your state authority will let you know when you need to install your Ignition Interlock Device (IID).
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
Florida statute law states that your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) must be serviced every 30 days.
Where can I go for service? Anywhere, or just within my state?
You can service your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) at any Smart Start service center in the state of Florida.
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
Smart Start will send a record of your Interlock service appointments to the state authority you specify upon completion of your Level I or Level II driving course.
What happens if I violate?
In Florida, if you violate, the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) will go into early recall, and you will have up to five days to service your Ignition Interlock Device. If you do not take your Ignition Interlock Device to a Smart Start service center for calibration, your device will go into lockout, and you will not be able to drive.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
In Florida, violations result from:
- Two failed tests within four hours
- A skipped rolling re-test
- A missed Interlock service appointment
- Tampering with the device
How do I know who my state authority is?
In the state of Florida, your state authority will be the court, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV), or the attorney who has told you that you will be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device. If you’re not sure who your state authority is, ask the instructor at your DUI driving course.
What do I need to bring to my installation?
Once you have scheduled your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation in Florida, you will need to bring the following to your IID installation appointment:
- A form of photo ID
- Proof of vehicle registration
- Proof of vehicle insurance
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
Once you have installed your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in Florida, you will need to bring proof of installation to your state authority. Smart Start will provide proof of installation. Your state authority can verify that you are in the Smart Start system by logging into Smart Start’s proprietary software, SmartWeb®.
What do I need for removal?
To remove your Ignition Interlock Device in the state of Florida, you will need approval from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). Should you receive any IID violations while participating in the program, you will need proof that no time has been extended to your court order. Then, you will be able to schedule an Interlock a removal appointment with Smart Start.
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 Ignition Interlock Devices are tested for program compliance. Smart Start is on the list of approved providers for the state of Florida, and our Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are tested to meet the standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
Florida DUI law states that you’re required to have an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed in every vehicle registered in your name.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
According to Florida DUI laws, if you have an Ignition Interlock Device requirement, but you don’t own a vehicle, you will be required to install the Ignition Interlock Device on whichever vehicle you drive. If you will be using someone else’s vehicle, you’ll need his/her written permission to have the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed on that vehicle.
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
In Florida, cameras are required for every Ignition Interlock Device (IID).
Does the camera watch me all the time?
No, the camera only takes pictures when you submit a breath test. There is no live video feed.
How Does It Work?
Show 8 Topics
What happens after I get my DUI?
Once you receive your DUI in Florida, you will either go before a judge, or your attorney will enroll you in a pre-trial diversion program.
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
In the state of Florida, your state authority will let you know when you need to install your Ignition Interlock Device (IID).
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
Florida statute law states that your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) must be serviced every 30 days.
Where can I go for service? Anywhere, or just within my state?
You can service your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) at any Smart Start service center in the state of Florida.
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
Smart Start will send a record of your Interlock service appointments to the state authority you specify upon completion of your Level I or Level II driving course.
What happens if I violate?
In Florida, if you violate, the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) will go into early recall, and you will have up to five days to service your Ignition Interlock Device. If you do not take your Ignition Interlock Device to a Smart Start service center for calibration, your device will go into lockout, and you will not be able to drive.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
In Florida, violations result from:
- Two failed tests within four hours
- A skipped rolling re-test
- A missed Interlock service appointment
- Tampering with the device
How do I know who my state authority is?
In the state of Florida, your state authority will be the court, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV), or the attorney who has told you that you will be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device. If you’re not sure who your state authority is, ask the instructor at your DUI driving course.
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 in Florida, you will need to bring the following to your IID installation appointment:
- A form of photo ID
- Proof of vehicle registration
- Proof of vehicle insurance
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
Once you have installed your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in Florida, you will need to bring proof of installation to your state authority. Smart Start will provide proof of installation. Your state authority can verify that you are in the Smart Start system by logging into Smart Start’s proprietary software, SmartWeb®.
How Can We Help?
Show 3 Topics
What do I need for removal?
To remove your Ignition Interlock Device in the state of Florida, you will need approval from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). Should you receive any IID violations while participating in the program, you will need proof that no time has been extended to your court order. Then, you will be able to schedule an Interlock a removal appointment with Smart Start.
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.
