General Ignition Interlock Device and Alcohol-Monitoring Questions
What is an Ignition Interlock Device?
An Ignition Interlock Device is a piece of electronic equipment that tests your level of alcohol consumption and prevents you from driving your car, truck, SUV, or crossover vehicle until you can pass a test. It is installed in your vehicle’s electrical system and interrupts the starter in the event of a failed test. In cases of a DUI or a DWI charge, an Ignition Interlock Device and restricted driver’s license can often take the place of a suspended license.
How do I know if I’m eligible for an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
You can always call Smart Start at 1-800-831-3299, and we’ll help you determine your eligibility. (Calling us first might also save you time.) You can also check with your alcohol state authority or your local department of motor vehicles (DMV), department of public safety (DPS), or related institution for specific eligibility requirements. In some cases, if your license is suspended due to a DUI or DWI charge, you can get an Ignition Interlock Device, and a restricted driver’s license will allow you to get back on the road.
Will a blow-and-go or IID ever shut off or stop my car while I’m driving?
Never. In fact, our devices have a safety feature where, if your vehicle does shut off or stall, you’ll have a full two minutes to restart your vehicle without first taking a test.
How do I know what kind of IID to get?
Your court documents will specify exactly what is required of your Ignition Interlock Device. Smart Start is a certified ignition interlock provider, so we’re able to meet all of the alcohol state authority’s requirements to ensure that you’re compliant within your state or county. Just make sure that you have your court documents when you contact our Customer Care Center, and a friendly advocate will make sure your device fits your program. Call us today at 1-800-831-3299—or fill out the online form, and we’ll call you.
How much does an Ignition Interlock system cost? What are the fees?
The overall cost of an Ignition Interlock Device is a combination of installation fees, monthly service fees, and removal fees. Exact pricing is state-specific. To find out the exact ignition interlock price in your state, call 1-800-831-3299. A Smart Start customer care advocate will help you determine the exact amount for your area of residence, but know that we always strive to give you the best value and the lowest cost in your total ignition interlock package.
Where is the nearest Smart Start location or service center?
Visit our Locations page and enter your zip code to find a list of locations nearest you. We have over 1,500 locations, so you’ll surely find something close.
Do I need to schedule an appointment to install my Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Yes. You can either fill out our online form to have a customer care advocate contact you to schedule an appointment, or call 1-800-831-3299 to speak with a trusted Smart Start advisor today. In some cases, same-day installation appointments may even be available.
What should I bring to my installation appointment?
Bring a photo ID and proof of residence in the form of a document verifying your address. You may also be asked to bring any documents that pertain to your case, depending on the state in which you or your program are located. If any other documents are required, one of our friendly customer service advisors will let you know.
How do I know if I’m eligible for a portable alcohol-monitoring device like the IN-HOM™ SMART Mobile™?
Check with your alcohol-state authority or your local department of motor vehicles (DMV), department of public safety (DPS), or related institution. If you’re eligible for an IN-HOM™ SMART Mobile™, call 1-800-831-3299 to speak with a customer care advocate and acquire an IN-HOM™ SMART Mobile™ for the duration and completion of your program.
What is the difference between a suspended license and a restricted driver’s license?
In many states, you cannot drive on a suspended license. In other states, your travel with a suspended license is significantly restricted. However, with a restricted driver’s license, you can drive anytime and anywhere as long as you have an Ignition Interlock Device installed.
How do I complete my program if I don’t have a car or vehicle?
You can fulfill your requirement by borrowing a vehicle and installing an ignition interlock there, or by using one of our portable, handheld devices like the IN-HOM™ SMART Mobile™.
Do I require special insurance during my ignition interlock program?
Some states do require you to get special insurance during your program. Unfortunately, Smart Start does not work with your insurance company—we only work with you. We know that each case can be completely different in the eyes of your insurance company, so you should contact them directly with any questions about their requirements during your program.
How much can I drink before I blow a violation?
It varies, depending on a person’s constitution and metabolism. Make sure to rinse your mouth out with water before taking a test to ensure maximum accuracy.
Does an Ignition Interlock or the IN-HOM™ SMART Mobile™ detect marijuana/weed?
No, but the technology is constantly evolving as legislation changes within the states.
Will I have to take a test while I’m driving?
NO. You are encouraged to make a full stop before taking any test. There will be times when your device will prompt you to take a rolling test (or a test while the car is running), but you will always have plenty of time—roughly six minutes—to pull over comfortably and safely before taking your test. Taking your time to stop safely will not incur a violation.
I need to take my vehicle to my mechanic. Can he/she work around my IID? What do I do?
We have very special instructions for your mechanic HERE.
How can I learn how to use my device properly?
You can always ask our friendly service technicians for instructions at your installation appointment. You can also find online training videos with step-by-step instructions for using your IID or your IN-HOM product.
SSI-20/30™ & SSI-20/20™ Questions
What is the difference between a car breathalyzer, a car interlock system, & an Ignition Interlock Device?
An Ignition Interlock Device is the proper term for devices mistakenly referred to as “car breathalyzer” or “car interlock.” Technically, Smart Start offers all of these–and at very affordable prices with low-cost installation.
What does “SLOCK@2d” or “SvcLock48hr” mean?
This means you are in service grace period countdown and you have 2 days remaining before you lock out. You must take your vehicle to the nearest Service Center to have it calibrated before the countdown ends. You can find the location nearest you here.
What does “VLOCK@2d” or “ViolLck48hr” mean?
This means you are in your violation grace period countdown and you have 2 days remaining before you lock out. You must take your vehicle to the nearest service center to have it calibrated before the countdown ends. To find your nearest service center, click here.
What does “LOCKOUT VIOL” mean?
This means you have lost all your points and have exceeded the violation grace period. You must now call 1-800-880-3394 to obtain a one-time unlock code in order to take the vehicle to a Smart Start service center. You can also click here to obtain a one-time, six-hour unlock code. You must take your vehicle to a service center within 6 hours of entering the code to regain the use of your device. If you fail to take your vehicle to the nearest service center within 6 hours, you will unfortunately have to tow your vehicle at your own expense.
What does “LOCKOUT SRVC” mean?
This means you have missed your monthly service and have exceeded the service grace period. You must now obtain a onetime unlock code to take the vehicle to a Smart Start service center. Call the Smart Start corporate office to obtain this code.
How do I check my appointment time?
Press the # key, then the 1 key on the keypad to display your appointment time.
What do “ Blow Harder,” “ Hum Stronger,” “Blow Softer,” “Don’t Inhale,” and other prompts mean?
“Blow harder” means that your breath sample did not last long enough for your test to register. “Hum stronger” means that you began humming either too late or too soon. It might also mean that your hum was not strong enough to register. “Blow softer” means that your breath sample was too strong. “Don’t inhale” means that you might have inhaled while your lips were still around the mouthpiece, therefore sucking air into the unit. “Abort tamper” means that you covered the vent on the back of your IID while blowing. “Mouth closer” means that you’ll need to hold the Ignition Interlock Device more firmly against your mouth to avoid letting the device pull away as you blow.
“Abort lock” means that you have exceeded the allowed number of aborts during a 15-minute period and will need to wait until the countdown completes before you attempt another test.
How do I check my remaining violation points?
Press the # key and then the number 3 on the keypad.
Can someone else blow into my device?
Yes. Whoever is driving the vehicle MUST take a breath test and pass before driving. Any failed test will still be your responsibility.
What does each violation mean?
“Initial BAC” means that the device has detected alcohol during your initial test. “RRTEST” means that the device detected alcohol during your rolling re-test. “CIRC” means that circumvention has occurred in the form of you disconnecting your handheld while driving. “Templock” means that your test detected a low level of alcohol and your device has been temporarily locked based on your state’s limits. “RRSkip” means that a rolling re-test skip has occurred because you did not take a test when prompted after your initial test. Even if you are at your destination, you must test again if your device prompts you to do so.
IN-HOM™ Questions
Where do I find instructions on how to use the IN-HOM unit?
Instructional information can be found directly on IN-HOM™ unit; see user instructions. Additional information will be given out during the enrollment process. A copy of the instructions is also available on the product support page.
When does the IN-HOM take pictures?
The IN-HOM takes a picture during test cycle while you are providing your breath sample. Please remember that all people in the room must be dressed appropriately during the test cycle. You may receive an “abort” or a “test incomplete” result if you have a bright window or light behind you when taking a test, or if you are in a room that is too dark for your face to register on the unit. The IN-HOM unit does NOT take pictures at random.
What is a test window?
This is the time period in which your state authority has decided you must provide a test. If you miss a test window, a violation will be recorded. As the test window nears the end of the allotted time, the unit will beep more frequently.
How do I know if the IN-HOM is in a test window?
The right LED will flash green, the beeper will beep randomly, and the LCD will display “BLOW” along with a timer indicating how much time you have to take a test.
Can I take a test outside of a test window?
Yes, but taking a test outside of a test window will not reverse a missed test.
What does "MISSED TEST" mean?
A test with the result of “PASS” was not provided during a test window.
What are violations?
Violations are breath sample which contains alcohol and missed test windows. You have a limited number of violations each month. If you exceed your maximum number of violations, your unit will begin a violation countdown. You will be required to take your device to the nearest service center before the countdown completes.
What does "WAIT mm:ss" mean?
This message is displayed after a failed test is provided. You will not be able to provide a test during this time. The “mm:ss” is a countdown timers informing you how long you will have to wait to before the device will accept a new test.
What does “LOCK mm:ss" mean?
This message is displayed after a failed test is provided during a test window. You will not be able to provide a test during this time. The “mm:ss” is a countdown timers informing you how long you will have to wait to before the device will accept a new test. We do not offer unlock codes for the IN-HOM SMART Mobile.
Where do I find information about my next appointment?
The appointment date and time is printed on the service receipt.
What does "Don’t Inhale" mean?
This means air was sucked from the device instead of blowing air into the device. Wait until the device returns to BLOW and, this time, do NOT inhale.
What does "Blow Harder" mean?
This means that you did not complete the test cycle. Wait for the device to return to BLOW and, this time, blow a little longer and a little harder.
What does "Blow Softer" mean?
This means the air is being blown into the unit with too much pressure. Wait for the device to return to BLOW and, this time, blow a little softer.
What does "ViolLck## hr" mean?
This is the display when your unit goes into the violation lockout grace period. The ## displays the number of hours remaining before the unit goes into lockout. We do not offer unlock codes for the IN-HOM™ SMART Mobile™. If your device is in a countdown, you must take it to the nearest service center to have it calibrated before the countdown completes.
What does "SvcLock ## hr" mean?
This is the display when your unit goes into the service lockout grace period. The ## displays the number of hours remaining before the unit goes into a service lockout due to missing your service appointment. We do not offer unlock codes for the IN-HOM™ SMART Mobile™. You will be required to take your device to the nearest service center to have it calibrated before the countdown completes.
What does "LOCKOUT VIOL" mean?
The device is in lockout due to exceeding your violations limit. You will not be able to take a test and are required to have the unit serviced. We do not offer unlock codes for the IN-HOM™ SMART Mobile™. You will need to take your device to the nearest service center to have it calibrated.
What does "LOCKOUT SRVC" mean?
The device is in lockout due to missing your service date. You are not able to take a test and are required to have the unit serviced. We do not offer unlock codes for the IN-HOM™ SMART Mobile™. You will need to take your device to the nearest service center to have it calibrated.
What does "CELL CALL-IN" mean?
The IN-HOM cellular unit is downloading your data over the cellular network. Do NOT unplug your unit during this process. You are not allowed to take a test during this time. You must allow the unit to complete this cellular data upload process. Unplugging the unit during the cellular upload process will not stop the data uploading. The unit will continue calling until it is finished and unplugging the unit will only delay this process. It is your responsibility to keep the unit plugged in at all times in an area with good cellular signal. If this message remains for more than 30 minutes, the cellular network could be overloaded. Your data upload will complete when the overload clears.
What do I do if my device is not operating correctly?
Contact 1-800-880-3394 and select the IN-HOM Help option or contact Technical Support.
How do I turn my device on?
Press the “0” key one time. There is no need to hold the key down.
My next appointment is listed as being too soon. I thought I only had to come in once every six months?
The unit only has to be calibrated every six months. However, you must call in each month to make your payment. Your payment will often appear under “Next Appointment.”
Why is my device randomly asking for weekend tests?
Your state authority has set up a random window during that time where the device will ask for a test. You must comply with the requests of your state authority.
My unit says "No Face Detected - Please Retry" when I test. Why?
This can happen if the camera is blocked. You may also receive this notification if there is poor lighting, bright lights behind you, or if you are taking a test outside at night. Make sure your mouthpiece is inserted correctly and that you are in a well lit area and try your test again.
What does "Error 4" mean?
“Error 4” means that the internal modem is having problems connecting. Click Menu, then click Cell Information to make sure it says “Provisioned: Yes.” If it says “No,” you will need to go to a service center.
What does "Error 9" mean?
“Error 9” appears when the unit is doing internal testing. This error will usually go away on its own when the device’s internal tests have concluded.
My unit won’t turn on. What do I do?
Plug the device into an electrical outlet or the USB port of a computer. If the battery is completely dead, it may take a few minutes to charge enough to turn on again. If the device was stored in extreme cold overnight, it may also take some time to warm up.
Why won’t the device allow a test when I blow?
In order to take a test, “Ready,” “Blow,” or “Test Required” must be displayed on your device. Make sure that your mouthpiece is aligned correctly and inserted all the way into the device. If the device is uploading data to a cellular network or conducting internal tests, it may not be ready for you to take a test yet.
Why won’t my battery charge?
Sometimes, the charger cable may seem difficult to plug in. Make sure the proper sides are aligning and try again. Do NOT force the charger cable into the device.
If your unit still fails to charge, you will need to bring it to the nearest service center for servicing.
What does "Too Hot" mean?
“Too Hot” means that the unit is too hot and must be reset.
What does "Too Cold" mean?
“Too Cold” means that the unit is too cold and must be reset.
What does "Battery Low - Plug in Power" mean?
This means that the battery is low and the unit must be re-charged. Please plug your device into the charger and confirm that the charging icon is next to the battery. Wait ten minutes or more to allow time for your device to start up again. Check the battery information by selecting Menu and then Battery Information. Make sure that the battery life is increasing while the unit is plugged in.
What does "Tamper Detect" mean?
If the mouthpiece is not all the way in, or if it hasn’t been inserted correctly, the airports may not be properly aligned. This could result in a “tamper detect” message. You may also receive a “tamper detect” message if you are blowing compressed air instead of your own, or if you are blocking the exhaust port on the back of the device.
How do I reset my device?
You can perform a hard reset of your device by pressing a paperclip into the small reset hole on the back of your IN-HOM™ SMART Mobile™ and holding it down for 60 seconds. The screen will flash off and then back on when the reset is complete.