We know that navigating a DUI can be overwhelming. Understanding the requirements and process after an alcohol related driving offense in Vermont 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 Green Mountain State
When it’s time to get your transportation back after a DUI in Vermont, Smart Start has your back. With 24/7 multilingual customer support, fast installation and affordable rates on Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs), we’ll keep you cruising in compliance.
Our Program Advisors are ready to help, with free quotes on Ignition Interlock services near you. Get in touch today and find the new road you’ve been waiting for.
How do you get your license back in Vermont after a DUI?
Under Vermont law, you may be able to drive under a temporary restricted license if you install an IID on any vehicles you drive.
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
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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 Vermont DUI Requirements
Basic DUI Requirements
The Vermont State Highway Safety Office lists the penalties that you could face for a DUI:
- Suspension of your driver’s license
- An average of $6,500 in fines, costs, and attorney fees
- Up to two years of jail time even for a first offense
- Mandatory alcohol and drug counseling
- Installing an Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle
Penalties tend to be more severe when it’s not your first DUI, or your arrest involved other aggravating circumstances such as a crash. Note that you’ll be responsible for the cost of the alcohol and drug counseling, as well as the cost of the IID.
License Reinstatement
If you want to continue driving while your license is suspended, you’ll need to apply for a Restricted Driver’s License (RDL). An RDL allows you to keep driving during your suspension under certain conditions, including the requirement that you install an IID on any vehicles you drive.
The Vermont DMV website includes the essential information and forms for applying for an RDL. Note that the DMV instructs drivers to contact the DMV by phone to determine if they’re eligible for an RDL before showing up to a DMV office in person to apply.
To apply for the reinstatement of your full driver’s license, you’ll need to satisfy the specific conditions that the court and/or the DMV sets. According to the DMV site, common examples include:
- Obtaining SR-22 insurance
- Retaking and passing driving tests
- Paying fines
- Satisfying all court requirements
- Obtaining medical clearance
- Completing court-ordered alcohol courses
When you’re ready to re-apply, check the DMV website to pay the reinstatement fee and find other key information.
How much does an Ignition Interlock Device cost in Vermont?
Financial challenges can be one of the toughest parts of dealing with a DUI, and we strive to offer affordable prices on Interlock Devices near you for all Vermont drivers.
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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
Why Choose Smart Start in Vermont
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 long-term contracts
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Convenient locations 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
Vermont Forms
As part of your Ignition Interlock requirement and getting your license reinstated, you may be required to complete or reference specific forms. Get quick access to these forms below:
Ignition Interlock Consent to Install
Vermont 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 Vermont.
What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 5 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)?
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 approved list of Ignition Interlock providers for the state of Vermont. 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?
DUI in Vermont can result in two types of license suspensions (which can be imposed at the same time):
Civil license suspension: This license suspension happens from the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) immediately at the time of your arrest if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08 percent or more, or if you refuse a chemical test
Criminal court license suspension: This occurs when you are sentenced by a court after a trial or plea agreement.
Upon arrest, your license will undergo a civil suspension automatically unless you request a hearing. The application to request a hearing is on the back of the Notice of Intention.
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
No, Vermont law does not require that you install an Ignition Interlock Device on all of your vehicles. However, you cannot legally drive a vehicle without an Ignition Interlock Device (IID). If you have multiple vehicles, you can install an IID on the only vehicle you will use, or you can install an IID on multiple vehicles. If you install IIDs on more than one vehicle, you will have to pay all of the associated fees (installation, leasing, removal, calibration, etc.) for each IID installed. The vehicle(s) in which the device is installed must have current registration and inspection.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
In Vermont, if you have an Ignition Interlock Device requirement, but you don’t own a vehicle, you can have the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed in a family member’s car or a friend’s car with their express authorization. Contact the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) at 802-828-2061 to verify your options.
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
In Vermont, you can install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) upon completion of your tribunal court hearing.
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
Vermont law indicates that your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) must be serviced every 30 days.
Where can I go for Ignition Interlock service?
Vermont law allows you to service your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) at any of Smart Start’s service center locations 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.
How can I pay for calibration?
What happens if I violate?
If your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) detects a BAC of 0.02 percent or greater, the horn will sound repeatedly and the headlights will flash until the vehicle is turned off. Once the vehicle is turned off, the IID will not allow you to restart the vehicle within three minutes without taking an initial breath test. Failing a rolling re-test will result in an immediate recall of your restricted driver’s license, and you will go back under hard license suspension.
If you fail to do the re-test within ten minutes, the horn will sound repeatedly and the headlights will flash until the vehicle is turned off. Once the vehicle is turned off, the IID will not allow you to restart the vehicle within three minutes without passing an initial breath test. Upon a total of three refusals to provide a re-test during the period of time you hold a restricted driver’s license (RDL), the IID will place your vehicle in a permanent lockout state.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
In Vermont, the following are considered violations of the terms and conditions of a restricted driver’s license (RDL) and will result in the immediate recall of your RDL for up to one year:
- Operating a motor vehicle without an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
- Getting another person to blow into or otherwise activate the device to start the vehicle for you
- Registering a BrAC of 0.02 percent or more during a rolling re-test
- Missing a service visit
- Removing, tampering with, disconnecting, disabling, or circumventing the Ignition Interlock Device
- Failing to submit to a re-test, which results in a permanent lock-out condition (This happens upon your third refusal to provide a re-test during the period of time you hold a restricted driver’s license or RDL.)
- Having the IID removed by an unauthorized manufacturer, installer or person
- Committing an offense that results in any other suspension (for example, if you receive a speeding ticket which results in a Total Accumulation of Points suspension)
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
The state of Vermont says that you must install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) that is equipped with a camera. In some cases, the courts and/or Department of Corrections may require you to install an IID that is equipped with additional capabilities like real-time reporting or GPS capability.
What do I need to bring to my installation appointment?
Once you have scheduled an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation in Vermont, you will need to bring the following to your IID installation appointment:
- Proof of residency (this can be a bill of some sort)
- A form of photo ID
- Proof of insurance
- Payment
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
Once you have the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed, have the installing technician complete a Certification of Ignition Interlock Device Installation, TA-VL-82. You will need to bring this form back to your state authority.
How do I know who my state authority is?
In the state of Vermont, your state authority is usually your court and/or the Vermont DMV. When the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is serviced every 30 days, Smart Start will forward the data reports to both the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Department of Corrections. If the data report indicates a failure to comply with any of the ignition interlock program requirements, it will result in the immediate recall of your restricted driver’s license (RDL), and you will go back under hard license suspension.
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.
What do I need for removal?
To remove your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in the state of Vermont, you must contact the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) at 802-828-2061 to verify that you are eligible to have the IID removed. If you have met your requirements, the DMV will allow you to have the IID removed from your vehicle. You will also need to re-apply for the restoration of your unrestricted license by completing a Duplicate or Corrected Registration / License / Learner Permit or Removal of Restriction Application, TA-VL-15.
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 approved list of Ignition Interlock providers for the state of Vermont. 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?
DUI in Vermont can result in two types of license suspensions (which can be imposed at the same time):
Civil license suspension: This license suspension happens from the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) immediately at the time of your arrest if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08 percent or more, or if you refuse a chemical test
Criminal court license suspension: This occurs when you are sentenced by a court after a trial or plea agreement.
Upon arrest, your license will undergo a civil suspension automatically unless you request a hearing. The application to request a hearing is on the back of the Notice of Intention.
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
No, Vermont law does not require that you install an Ignition Interlock Device on all of your vehicles. However, you cannot legally drive a vehicle without an Ignition Interlock Device (IID). If you have multiple vehicles, you can install an IID on the only vehicle you will use, or you can install an IID on multiple vehicles. If you install IIDs on more than one vehicle, you will have to pay all of the associated fees (installation, leasing, removal, calibration, etc.) for each IID installed. The vehicle(s) in which the device is installed must have current registration and inspection.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
In Vermont, if you have an Ignition Interlock Device requirement, but you don’t own a vehicle, you can have the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed in a family member’s car or a friend’s car with their express authorization. Contact the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) at 802-828-2061 to verify your options.
How Does It Work?
Show 8 Topics
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
In Vermont, you can install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) upon completion of your tribunal court hearing.
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
Vermont law indicates that your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) must be serviced every 30 days.
Where can I go for Ignition Interlock service?
Vermont law allows you to service your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) at any of Smart Start’s service center locations 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.
How can I pay for calibration?
What happens if I violate?
If your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) detects a BAC of 0.02 percent or greater, the horn will sound repeatedly and the headlights will flash until the vehicle is turned off. Once the vehicle is turned off, the IID will not allow you to restart the vehicle within three minutes without taking an initial breath test. Failing a rolling re-test will result in an immediate recall of your restricted driver’s license, and you will go back under hard license suspension.
If you fail to do the re-test within ten minutes, the horn will sound repeatedly and the headlights will flash until the vehicle is turned off. Once the vehicle is turned off, the IID will not allow you to restart the vehicle within three minutes without passing an initial breath test. Upon a total of three refusals to provide a re-test during the period of time you hold a restricted driver’s license (RDL), the IID will place your vehicle in a permanent lockout state.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
In Vermont, the following are considered violations of the terms and conditions of a restricted driver’s license (RDL) and will result in the immediate recall of your RDL for up to one year:
- Operating a motor vehicle without an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
- Getting another person to blow into or otherwise activate the device to start the vehicle for you
- Registering a BrAC of 0.02 percent or more during a rolling re-test
- Missing a service visit
- Removing, tampering with, disconnecting, disabling, or circumventing the Ignition Interlock Device
- Failing to submit to a re-test, which results in a permanent lock-out condition (This happens upon your third refusal to provide a re-test during the period of time you hold a restricted driver’s license or RDL.)
- Having the IID removed by an unauthorized manufacturer, installer or person
- Committing an offense that results in any other suspension (for example, if you receive a speeding ticket which results in a Total Accumulation of Points suspension)
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
The state of Vermont says that you must install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) that is equipped with a camera. In some cases, the courts and/or Department of Corrections may require you to install an IID that is equipped with additional capabilities like real-time reporting or GPS capability.
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 3 Topics
What do I need to bring to my installation appointment?
Once you have scheduled an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation in Vermont, you will need to bring the following to your IID installation appointment:
- Proof of residency (this can be a bill of some sort)
- A form of photo ID
- Proof of insurance
- Payment
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
Once you have the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed, have the installing technician complete a Certification of Ignition Interlock Device Installation, TA-VL-82. You will need to bring this form back to your state authority.
How do I know who my state authority is?
In the state of Vermont, your state authority is usually your court and/or the Vermont DMV. When the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is serviced every 30 days, Smart Start will forward the data reports to both the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Department of Corrections. If the data report indicates a failure to comply with any of the ignition interlock program requirements, it will result in the immediate recall of your restricted driver’s license (RDL), and you will go back under hard license suspension.
How Can We Help?
Show 3 Topics
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.
What do I need for removal?
To remove your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in the state of Vermont, you must contact the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) at 802-828-2061 to verify that you are eligible to have the IID removed. If you have met your requirements, the DMV will allow you to have the IID removed from your vehicle. You will also need to re-apply for the restoration of your unrestricted license by completing a Duplicate or Corrected Registration / License / Learner Permit or Removal of Restriction Application, TA-VL-15.
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.
See What Everyone Says About Our Ignition Interlock
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June 10, 2026
"I had a driving test in 2 days and they helped me schedule an install and complete an install by the next day so cloud make my driving test"
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United States
June 10, 2026
"Courtney was a breath of fresh air to talk to! She even laughed at my jokes . For someone who works in customer service and deals with rude customers all the time, it's nice to be the customer and deal with someone like her. "
Danielle B.
United States
June 10, 2026
"She was excellent and fixed the issues that the previous 3 reps messed up on. She deserves a raise and she was fast and efficient."
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