We know that navigating a DUI can be overwhelming. Understanding the requirements and process after an alcohol related driving offense in Nebraska is an important step to getting back on the road. We’ve put together some general information to help you get started.
Smart Start Ignition Interlock: We’re Here for the Cornhusker State
Smart Start is here to support Nebraska drivers in overcoming their DUI and getting back on the road. Your journey starts with a free quote on an Ignition Interlock Device from our knowledgeable Program Advisors, and our customer care team has your back with 24/7 multilingual support.
Find Interlock Device services near you now with fast installation and easy-to-use devices, at an affordable price with no long-term contracts.
How do you get your license back in Nebraska after a DUI?
Nebraska’s Administrative License Revocation (ALR) law allows the Nebraska DMV to suspend a driver’s license after a DUI arrest. The suspension period for a first offense is generally 180 days. If you want to continue driving while your license is suspended, you may be eligible to apply for an Ignition Interlock Permit (IIP).
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
Information as of 09/02/2025
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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 Nebraska DUI Requirements
Basic OUI Requirements
Penalties for DUI under Nebraska law are strict. Even on a first offense, drivers can be subject to consequences that include:
- 180 days administrative license suspension, or one year if you refuse a chemical test
- Between 7 and 60 days imprisonment
- A $500 fine, plus additional costs such as court costs
Penalties will often be more severe if it’s not your first DUI offense, or if you had a tested blood alcohol content (BAC) of .15% or higher.
At the discretion of the court, you may also be granted a suspended sentence (also known as probation). A suspended sentence requires no minimum jail time and often allows for a shorter license suspension period, but the court can re-impose the full conditions of the sentence if you violate the probation conditions.
License Reinstatement
If you want to continue driving while your Nebraska driver’s license is suspended, you’ll need to apply for an Ignition Interlock Permit (IIP). This allows you to maintain your driving privileges as long as you install an approved Ignition Interlock Device (IID).
To apply for an IIP, check your eligibility online with the Nebraska DMV. If you’re eligible, fill out and submit the application, making sure to follow the Nebraska DMV instructions. If the DMV approves you for an IIP, you’ll receive a letter in the mail, after which you may either go to a local DMV to receive your permit or order it online. You may need to obtain and show an SR-22 certificate of insurance to prove that you have the required insurance coverage.
When you approach the expiration date for your IIP, check the Driver Privilege Services application to learn about the conditions you’ll need to meet to have your full license reinstated.
How much does an Ignition Interlock Device cost in Nebraska?
A DUI can be a major roadblock for your finances, but Smart Start strives to bring youIID services at prices that fit your budget. We offer:
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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 If you meet certain conditions, you may be eligible for financial assistance through the Nebraska Interlock Indigent Fund. Ask your attorney or monitoring authority to help you determine if you qualify. To learn more about the expected costs of an Interlock Device near you, see our IID cost guide for Nebraska.
Why Choose Smart Start in Nebraska?
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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Dozens of 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
Nebraska 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 Nebraska.
What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 5 Topics
How Does It Work?
Show 9 Topics
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 3 Topics
How Can We Help?
Show 3 Topics
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
An Ignition Interlock Device (IID), also called a car breathalyzer, is a device that measures breath alcohol content (BrAC). It is typically installed in your vehicle as part of an administrative or legal requirement after drunk driving. Learn more about Smart Start's Ignition Interlock here.
How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?
Smart Start is on the Nebraska DMV’s list of state-approved Ignition Interlock providers. Smart Start’s Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are also tested to meet the standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
What happens after I get my DUI?
After you get a DUI in Nebraska, you will receive a 15-day temporary permit. If you have no prior offenses, you will be eligible for an Ignition Interlock Permit (IIP) on the 16th day. If you do have a prior offense, you will serve a 45-day hard suspension, followed by 365 days of Ignition Interlock eligibility. If you refused a breath test in the field, you’ll be forced to serve a 90-day hard suspension of your license, followed by 365 days of Ignition Interlock eligibility. All of this is handled administratively through the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). If you have any further questions about the specifics of your process, call Smart Start at 1-866-747-8278.
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
In Nebraska, if you have an Ignition Interlock Permit (IIP), you are required by the state to have an Ignition Interlock Device on any vehicle that you drive, but not every vehicle that you own.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
No alternative provisions are legislated in Nebraska. Nebraska does not have a mandatory participation clause for all offenders, and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) does allow you to “sit out” your revocation period. However, these situations are handled by the court, the probation officer, and/or the judge on a case-by-case basis.
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DUI? Third? Fourth?
Traditionally, the administrative consequences are as follows:
- First DUI: 180-day revocation with the breath alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) allowed if otherwise eligible for license.
- Second+ DUI: 45-day hard suspension and a 365-day revocation with the breath alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) allowed if you are otherwise eligible for a license.
- From a criminal side, clients with a first offense are usually subject to a 90-day suspension and will have an Ignition Interlock requirement. Your court will assign an Ignition Interlock Permit (IIP) term period for which you will receive day for day credit. Your court may also revoke, at its discretion, an IIP for part of or for the entire revocation period.
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
Unless otherwise instructed by your state authority, you will need to install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) as soon as possible so that the state can receive an installation certificate. Once the installation certificate is processed, you can go and get the Ignition Interlock Permit (IIP).
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
Nebraska law states that your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) needs to be serviced once every 30 days.
Where can I go for Ignition Interlock service?
Nebraska law dictates that you can 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 send a record of your service appointments to your state authority on your behalf at no additional cost to you.
What happens if I violate?
If you violate in Nebraska, your Ignition Interlock Device will go into a countdown, and you will have five days to get your Ignition Interlock Device serviced before it locks you out completely and you cannot drive.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
In the state of Nebraska, any and all of the following may constitute a violation:
- A failed initial breath test
- A failed re-test, rolling re-test or otherwise
- Attempting to start the vehicle without a valid sample (also known as tampering)
- Failing to take or skipping a re-test
- Anything else specified by your state authority
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
Per the state of Nebraska, all units installed on or after January 1, 2014 are required to have a camera. Units installed prior to January 1, 2014 are grandfathered in until a transfer is performed. If additional requirements are put in place by your court or probation officer, your court or probation officer will let you know. If you’re not sure, contact your court or probation officer to verify.
How can I pay for calibration?
What do I need to bring to my installation appointment?
Once you have scheduled your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation with Smart Start, you will need to bring the following to your installation appointment:
- Your first month’s payment
- Vehicle identification and registration
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
Once you have identified your probation officer, Smart Start will send proof of installation to your probation officer on your behalf at no additional cost to you.
How do I know who my state authority is?
In Nebraska, your state authority is traditionally the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and/or your probation officer.
What do I need for removal?
Call Smart Start of Nebraska at 1-866-747-8278 to schedule an appointment. We remove per client request—HOWEVER, we highly recommend that you first verify removal eligibility with your probation officer and/or the Nebraska DMV. If not, you may not receive credit for your time with the Ignition Interlock Device, or you may be required to install again to complete your requirement.
What do I need to install voluntarily?
To install an Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle or a family member’s vehicle voluntarily, click the chat window below, fill out our online form, or call 800-831-3299 to speak with one of our Program Advisors.
Can I get one on my motorcycle?
Motorcycle Ignition Interlock installation laws differ by state. Smart Start operates throughout the U.S. as a certified manufacturer and will work harder than other companies to provide you a seamless Interlock program that still follows your case requirements. Please call our Customer Care Center at 800-831-3299 if you have any questions.
What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 5 Topics
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
An Ignition Interlock Device (IID), also called a car breathalyzer, is a device that measures breath alcohol content (BrAC). It is typically installed in your vehicle as part of an administrative or legal requirement after drunk driving. Learn more about Smart Start's Ignition Interlock here.
How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?
Smart Start is on the Nebraska DMV’s list of state-approved Ignition Interlock providers. Smart Start’s Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are also tested to meet the standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
What happens after I get my DUI?
After you get a DUI in Nebraska, you will receive a 15-day temporary permit. If you have no prior offenses, you will be eligible for an Ignition Interlock Permit (IIP) on the 16th day. If you do have a prior offense, you will serve a 45-day hard suspension, followed by 365 days of Ignition Interlock eligibility. If you refused a breath test in the field, you’ll be forced to serve a 90-day hard suspension of your license, followed by 365 days of Ignition Interlock eligibility. All of this is handled administratively through the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). If you have any further questions about the specifics of your process, call Smart Start at 1-866-747-8278.
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
In Nebraska, if you have an Ignition Interlock Permit (IIP), you are required by the state to have an Ignition Interlock Device on any vehicle that you drive, but not every vehicle that you own.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
No alternative provisions are legislated in Nebraska. Nebraska does not have a mandatory participation clause for all offenders, and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) does allow you to “sit out” your revocation period. However, these situations are handled by the court, the probation officer, and/or the judge on a case-by-case basis.
How Does It Work?
Show 9 Topics
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DUI? Third? Fourth?
Traditionally, the administrative consequences are as follows:
- First DUI: 180-day revocation with the breath alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) allowed if otherwise eligible for license.
- Second+ DUI: 45-day hard suspension and a 365-day revocation with the breath alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) allowed if you are otherwise eligible for a license.
- From a criminal side, clients with a first offense are usually subject to a 90-day suspension and will have an Ignition Interlock requirement. Your court will assign an Ignition Interlock Permit (IIP) term period for which you will receive day for day credit. Your court may also revoke, at its discretion, an IIP for part of or for the entire revocation period.
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
Unless otherwise instructed by your state authority, you will need to install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) as soon as possible so that the state can receive an installation certificate. Once the installation certificate is processed, you can go and get the Ignition Interlock Permit (IIP).
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
Nebraska law states that your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) needs to be serviced once every 30 days.
Where can I go for Ignition Interlock service?
Nebraska law dictates that you can 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 send a record of your service appointments to your state authority on your behalf at no additional cost to you.
What happens if I violate?
If you violate in Nebraska, your Ignition Interlock Device will go into a countdown, and you will have five days to get your Ignition Interlock Device serviced before it locks you out completely and you cannot drive.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
In the state of Nebraska, any and all of the following may constitute a violation:
- A failed initial breath test
- A failed re-test, rolling re-test or otherwise
- Attempting to start the vehicle without a valid sample (also known as tampering)
- Failing to take or skipping a re-test
- Anything else specified by your state authority
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
Per the state of Nebraska, all units installed on or after January 1, 2014 are required to have a camera. Units installed prior to January 1, 2014 are grandfathered in until a transfer is performed. If additional requirements are put in place by your court or probation officer, your court or probation officer will let you know. If you’re not sure, contact your court or probation officer to verify.
How can I pay for calibration?
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 3 Topics
What do I need to bring to my installation appointment?
Once you have scheduled your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation with Smart Start, you will need to bring the following to your installation appointment:
- Your first month’s payment
- Vehicle identification and registration
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
Once you have identified your probation officer, Smart Start will send proof of installation to your probation officer on your behalf at no additional cost to you.
How do I know who my state authority is?
In Nebraska, your state authority is traditionally the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and/or your probation officer.
How Can We Help?
Show 3 Topics
What do I need for removal?
Call Smart Start of Nebraska at 1-866-747-8278 to schedule an appointment. We remove per client request—HOWEVER, we highly recommend that you first verify removal eligibility with your probation officer and/or the Nebraska DMV. If not, you may not receive credit for your time with the Ignition Interlock Device, or you may be required to install again to complete your requirement.
What do I need to install voluntarily?
To install an Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle or a family member’s vehicle voluntarily, click the chat window below, fill out our online form, or call 800-831-3299 to speak with one of our Program Advisors.
Can I get one on my motorcycle?
Motorcycle Ignition Interlock installation laws differ by state. Smart Start operates throughout the U.S. as a certified manufacturer and will work harder than other companies to provide you a seamless Interlock program that still follows your case requirements. Please call our Customer Care Center at 800-831-3299 if you have any questions.
