We know that navigating a DUI or DWI can be overwhelming. Understanding the requirements and process after an alcohol related driving offense in Texas 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 The Lone Star State
As a company proudly based here in the Lone Star State, we’re honored to offer our fellow Texans our latest in IID technology. With Smart Start, you can count on:
- Statewide coverage for Ignition Interlocks and service
- Affordable pricing
- Friendly, knowledgeable, and bilingual customer care available 24/7
How do you get your license back in Texas after a DUI?
To have your license reinstated, you may be required to fulfill some or all of these conditions, as described by the Texas Department of Public Safety.
The following is general information, not legal advice, about the conditions you might have to complete before applying for a reinstated license.
Consult Your Legal Counsel
License Hearing
Court Hearings and Appearances
Schedule Installation
Obtain SR-22 Certificate
Assessment and Education
Pay Fees and Complete Forms
Service Appointments
Court-Authorized Removal
Information as of March 1, 2025.
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 Texas DUI/DWI Requirements
Basic DUI/DWI Requirements
A person is considered legally intoxicated when their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) reaches .08%, as specified by the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT). A driver who gives a breath or blood sample that indicates a BAC of .08% or higher can be arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI).
If you’re wondering what the difference is between a DUI and DWI in Texas, you’re not alone. You may hear these terms used interchangeably, but they refer to different violations in Texas. In the simplest terms, the difference between DWI and DUI in Texas boils down to age. Only drivers who are too young to legally drink alcohol can be charged with DUI.
License Reinstatement
Starting the journey to restore your Texas driver’s license after a DUI or DWI? First, know that the State of Texas will suspend your license for anywhere from 90 days to 2 years, depending on the facts of your case (such as blood alcohol content and whether it’s your first offense.)
To have your license reinstated, you may be required to fulfill some or all of these conditions, as described by the Texas Department of Public Safety:
- Installing an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on any vehicles you drive
- Completing an alcohol education course
- Paying fees to the state
- Obtaining and maintaining SR-22 high-risk insurance from an auto insurer
- Serving jail time
Check the Texas Department of Public Safety’s license eligibility portal to find out if you qualify for a reinstated license. When you’re ready to have your license reinstated, you’ll need to submit the required paperwork and fees to the Texas Department of Public Safety.
You may also be eligible to apply for an Occupational Driver’s License, which allows you to drive to work, school, or family commitments while your license is suspended. You can learn more on the Texas Occupational Driver’s License information page.
How much does an Ignition Interlock Device cost in Texas?
Smart Start will help you find an Ignition Interlock Device solution that fits your needs and your budget. We offer:
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Fast, customized quotes from our Program Advisors
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No long-term contracts required
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Pricing that fits your budget
See our resources on the cost of IIDs in Texas for more information.
Why Choose Smart Start in Texas?
Smart Start is an industry leader in affordable and user-friendly IID technology — not to mention a hometown Texas company with a long history of outstanding customer service. Thousands of Texans have used Smart Start IIDs to confirm their commitment to safe and compliant driving because we offer:
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Service from friendly technicians
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Over 150 convenient service locations across Texas
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24/7/365 multilingual customer support
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Affordable pricing
Texas 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 Texas.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 7 Topics
How Does It Work?
Show 8 Topics
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 3 Topics
How Can We Help?
Show 3 Topics
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?
Is an Ignition Interlock Device mandatory for all DUI convictions in Texas?
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
Does the camera watch me all the time?
What happens after I get my DWI?
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DUI? Third? Fourth?
- First DUI Offense: Penalties can include a fine, jail time, and license suspension. The severity depends on specific circumstances such as BAC levels.
- Second DUI Offense: Increased fines, longer jail time, and extended license suspension periods are common. This reflects the state’s escalating response to repeat offenses.
- Third DUI Offense: This is considered a serious offense and can lead to significant fines, lengthy jail sentences, and a prolonged or indefinite license suspension.
- Fourth and Subsequent Offenses: These are treated with utmost severity, often resulting in the highest level of penalties permissible under law, which can include long-term jail sentences, license revocation and heavy fines.
What happens if I fail a breath test on the Ignition Interlock Device?
What constitutes a violation in my state?
- Testing at or above the fail level of .030
- Skipping or failing a rolling re-test
- Missing your scheduled IID service appointment
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
Where can I go for service? Anywhere, or just within my state?
How do I know who my state authority is?
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
What do I need to bring to my installation in Texas?
- Two forms of photo identification
- Any and all court paperwork that has been given to you
- Proof of residence
- Car insurance and vehicle registration
What should I bring back to my State authority after my device is installed?
How can I pay for calibration?
What do I need for removal?
What do I need to install voluntarily?
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 7 Topics
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?
Is an Ignition Interlock Device mandatory for all DUI convictions in Texas?
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
Does the camera watch me all the time?
How Does It Work?
Show 8 Topics
What happens after I get my DWI?
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DUI? Third? Fourth?
- First DUI Offense: Penalties can include a fine, jail time, and license suspension. The severity depends on specific circumstances such as BAC levels.
- Second DUI Offense: Increased fines, longer jail time, and extended license suspension periods are common. This reflects the state’s escalating response to repeat offenses.
- Third DUI Offense: This is considered a serious offense and can lead to significant fines, lengthy jail sentences, and a prolonged or indefinite license suspension.
- Fourth and Subsequent Offenses: These are treated with utmost severity, often resulting in the highest level of penalties permissible under law, which can include long-term jail sentences, license revocation and heavy fines.
What happens if I fail a breath test on the Ignition Interlock Device?
What constitutes a violation in my state?
- Testing at or above the fail level of .030
- Skipping or failing a rolling re-test
- Missing your scheduled IID service appointment
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
Where can I go for service? Anywhere, or just within my state?
How do I know who my state authority is?
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 3 Topics
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
What do I need to bring to my installation in Texas?
- Two forms of photo identification
- Any and all court paperwork that has been given to you
- Proof of residence
- Car insurance and vehicle registration
What should I bring back to my State authority after my device is installed?
How Can We Help?
Show 3 Topics
How can I pay for calibration?
What do I need for removal?
What do I need to install voluntarily?