If you need an Ignition Interlock from a court or state requirement, you’re probably wondering how the program will go because you may have the device for a while. For example, how do tests work while you’re driving (also known as ‘random rolling retests’) or service appointments? What are the general functions of the device and other services?
Let’s go over what to expect from your Ignition Interlock program and some helpful tips to know about your device.
The Ignition Interlock Program
First, you should know that installing an Ignition Interlock is the right step to driving again safely after a DUI or DWI. In some states, this can be an OUI or OWI, but all these acronyms mean impaired driving. In any case, you can now get back to your everyday routine like driving to school or work instead of waiting out a hard suspension period. Let’s go over a few details during your Ignition Interlock program that you can expect.
- Preparing for an Ignition Interlock Installation Appointment
Knowing what to bring to your installation appointment will make the process much easier for you and your technician. Make sure to bring the proper paperwork and/or ID with you! Since the items that you need to bring to your appointment varies state-by-state, we have a helpful Interlock installation appointment guide that covers what to bring and how long the appointment will be.
Plus, if you are a Smart Start client, you will be receiving the best Ignition Interlock customer service. During your program, you’ll be visiting the same technician and shop every month or every other month depending on where you live, so they will be like your partner until your device removal. Our team will always be friendly, approachable and answer your questions.
Tip: Going to the same Ignition Interlock service location is nice, but if you do need to travel out of state or you need to go somewhere closer to work rather than home, Smart Start has many service locations throughout the U.S. available to you!
Random rolling retests are the subsequent tests that your device will prompt for while your vehicle is in motion. Keeping true to its title, these tests are at random and must be completed within a certain time-frame. Every state’s time frame varies, but for general purposes, you’ll have up to six minutes to complete a rolling retest. Smart Start recommends pulling over safely to complete your random rolling retests. A random rolling retest will NEVER shut down your vehicle!
Using an Ignition Interlock means you’ll need to visit your provider’s service center monthly or bi-monthly, depending on your state or court. This type of service is usually called calibration appointments, which ensures that your device is functioning properly.
When you do visit for your calibration appointment, it’s important to note if customer service is top-of-mind for your Ignition Interlock provider. Smart Start’s mission is all about the client, so you can experience the easiest Ignition Interlock program possible. If your provider’s team is not treating you like a human being, you can transfer providers while still following your court or state Ignition Interlock requirements.
- Vehicle Mechanic Appointments During Your Ignition Interlock Program
If you have a service appointment coming up for your vehicle, there’s no need to worry about your Smart Start Ignition Interlock. We have special tips for your mechanic on our website that will prevent your device from recording a violation. We also provide additional information about what to do for mechanic service appointments on our blog.
Ignition Interlock Device Tips
Did you know that you can use your device’s keypad for multiple features that will help you throughout your program?
- Your Next Service Appointment
You can check your next service appointment by pressing the pound or # sign, then press 1.
- Change Your Language Settings
Need to change languages on your Ignition Interlock? You can easily change between English and Spanish right on the keypad. If you need to change to Spanish, type in 772*. If you need to switch back to English, press 364*.
You can check how many violation points you have remaining on your Ignition Interlock as well. Just press the pound, or #, key, and then press 3 on your keypad. Keep in mind that the violation points vary state-by-state!
Check your car battery’s current voltage right on your Ignition Interlock’s screen! Just press the pound or # sign, then press 2.
What Does ______ Mean on My Ignition Interlock?
You may also come across some messages that are unfamiliar to you on the Ignition Interlock. Below are explanations that cover what these messages mean, and what to do next.
If you have any more questions or would like to speak to a Smart Start representative, our 24/7/365 Customer Care Center is standing by to help at (800) 831-3299. Our service agents are here for you, so feel free to contact us if you are unsure or need any clarification with your Ignition Interlock program. If you don’t have an Ignition Interlock yet but you need to install one, we can assist you with next steps.
Install a Smart Start Ignition Interlock for an Affordable Program
Schedule your installation appointment today and receive a free quote with your nearest service location. Just call (800) 831-3299 or fill out our online form and we’ll take care of the rest!
What to Expect After a First DUI in Georgia
Do you know what to do after getting a first DUI in Georgia? Let’s go over what to expect and how a Smart Start Ignition Interlock can help you get back on the road right away.
A First DUI in Georgia Timeline
First, at the time of your arrest, you were provided a 1205 Form from the officer and your driver’s license was confiscated. This 1205 Form is your temporary driving permit for 45 days. So now let’s go over your options to move forward in your DUI case.
Reinstating Your Driving Privileges and Your Driver’s License
To start the process of your DUI case, you have three options: You can either do nothing, which will result in a DUI conviction; you can schedule an administrative license suspension (ALS) hearing; or opt out of the ALS hearing and inquire about the Ignition Interlock Device Limited Driver’s Permit, which we will discuss later in the blog. You might also want to consult with an attorney for your DUI case. You’ll have 30 days to decide on moving forward after your 1205 Form is issued.
The DDS or Department of Driver Services is your administrative component to your DUI case. In other words, they’re the oversight authority regarding your driver’s license. You’ll need to visit one of their offices regarding your DUI. They will go over with you your options and what you need to do to reinstate your driving privileges. There is an option for someone with a first-time DUI to drive again sooner rather than later as you’re going through the judicial process by choosing to install an Ignition Interlock right away: you may be eligible for the Ignition Interlock Device Limited Driving Permit or IIDLDP.
Ignition Interlock Installation in Georgia: Obtaining a Limited Permit
If eligible, you can notify the DDS of your interest on obtaining an Ignition Interlock Device Limited Driver’s Permit. You need to do this within 30 days of receiving your 1205 Form and waive your right to an administrative hearing. This action, if approved, will ensure you continue driving while the judicial process with your DUI continues.
After meeting with the DDS, then installing your Ignition Interlock with a DDS-approved provider, such as Smart Start, you can report back to the DDS to obtain your IIDLP. You won’t receive any credit for your Ignition Interlock until you obtain your IIDLDP from DDS. An IIDLDP is not available for DUI cases causing fatalities or serious injury, or for drivers not licensed in Georgia.
About Your Driver’s License Suspension Period
The paperwork will show you how long your driver’s license is suspended for because of the DUI. In most cases for a first-time DUI, the suspension period is 12 months.
The Ignition Interlock Device
Now let’s get into the Ignition Interlock Device. Below is information regarding some first-time DUI convictions who must install the Ignition Interlock.
Do you have any questions about your Ignition Interlock program? Feel free to call our 24/7/365 Customer Care Center at 800-831-3299. Our service agents are standing by and ready to assist you! We know the Georgia DUI and Ignition Interlock law so our clients can experience a seamless program and drive again.
Need to Install an Ignition Interlock in Georgia?
Smart Start’s ready to help you get back on the road with a discreet device and an affordable program. Make sure to ask for any current state specials or discounts! All you need to do is schedule your installation appointment today at (800) 831-3299 or fill out our online form.
Schedule an Installation
Get a quick and easy IID installation with Smart Start! Get started today!
¡Obtenga una instalación rápida y fácil de IID con Smart Start! ¡Empieza hoy mismo!
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What Can I Expect Out of My Ignition Interlock Program?
If you need an Ignition Interlock from a court or state requirement, you’re probably wondering how the program will go because you may have the device for a while. For example, how do tests work while you’re driving (also known as ‘random rolling retests’) or service appointments? What are the general functions of the device and other services?
Let’s go over what to expect from your Ignition Interlock program and some helpful tips to know about your device.
The Ignition Interlock Program
First, you should know that installing an Ignition Interlock is the right step to driving again safely after a DUI or DWI. In some states, this can be an OUI or OWI, but all these acronyms mean impaired driving. In any case, you can now get back to your everyday routine like driving to school or work instead of waiting out a hard suspension period. Let’s go over a few details during your Ignition Interlock program that you can expect.
Knowing what to bring to your installation appointment will make the process much easier for you and your technician. Make sure to bring the proper paperwork and/or ID with you! Since the items that you need to bring to your appointment varies state-by-state, we have a helpful Interlock installation appointment guide that covers what to bring and how long the appointment will be.
Plus, if you are a Smart Start client, you will be receiving the best Ignition Interlock customer service. During your program, you’ll be visiting the same technician and shop every month or every other month depending on where you live, so they will be like your partner until your device removal. Our team will always be friendly, approachable and answer your questions.
Tip: Going to the same Ignition Interlock service location is nice, but if you do need to travel out of state or you need to go somewhere closer to work rather than home, Smart Start has many service locations throughout the U.S. available to you!
Random rolling retests are the subsequent tests that your device will prompt for while your vehicle is in motion. Keeping true to its title, these tests are at random and must be completed within a certain time-frame. Every state’s time frame varies, but for general purposes, you’ll have up to six minutes to complete a rolling retest. Smart Start recommends pulling over safely to complete your random rolling retests. A random rolling retest will NEVER shut down your vehicle!
Using an Ignition Interlock means you’ll need to visit your provider’s service center monthly or bi-monthly, depending on your state or court. This type of service is usually called calibration appointments, which ensures that your device is functioning properly.
When you do visit for your calibration appointment, it’s important to note if customer service is top-of-mind for your Ignition Interlock provider. Smart Start’s mission is all about the client, so you can experience the easiest Ignition Interlock program possible. If your provider’s team is not treating you like a human being, you can transfer providers while still following your court or state Ignition Interlock requirements.
If you have a service appointment coming up for your vehicle, there’s no need to worry about your Smart Start Ignition Interlock. We have special tips for your mechanic on our website that will prevent your device from recording a violation. We also provide additional information about what to do for mechanic service appointments on our blog.
Ignition Interlock Device Tips
Did you know that you can use your device’s keypad for multiple features that will help you throughout your program?
You can check your next service appointment by pressing the pound or # sign, then press 1.
Need to change languages on your Ignition Interlock? You can easily change between English and Spanish right on the keypad. If you need to change to Spanish, type in 772*. If you need to switch back to English, press 364*.
You can check how many violation points you have remaining on your Ignition Interlock as well. Just press the pound, or #, key, and then press 3 on your keypad. Keep in mind that the violation points vary state-by-state!
Check your car battery’s current voltage right on your Ignition Interlock’s screen! Just press the pound or # sign, then press 2.
What Does ______ Mean on My Ignition Interlock?
You may also come across some messages that are unfamiliar to you on the Ignition Interlock. Below are explanations that cover what these messages mean, and what to do next.
If you have any more questions or would like to speak to a Smart Start representative, our 24/7/365 Customer Care Center is standing by to help at (800) 831-3299. Our service agents are here for you, so feel free to contact us if you are unsure or need any clarification with your Ignition Interlock program. If you don’t have an Ignition Interlock yet but you need to install one, we can assist you with next steps.
Install a Smart Start Ignition Interlock for an Affordable Program
Schedule your installation appointment today and receive a free quote with your nearest service location. Just call (800) 831-3299 or fill out our online form and we’ll take care of the rest!
Schedule an Installation
Get a quick and easy IID installation with Smart Start! Get started today!
¡Obtenga una instalación rápida y fácil de IID con Smart Start! ¡Empieza hoy mismo!
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Can You Install an Ignition Interlock on a Tractor?
If Ignition Interlocks go into vehicles, can they also be in tractors? The answer with Smart Start is, absolutely!
Ignition Interlocks and Tractors – Can It Work?
First, let’s go over how the Ignition Interlock functions. Ignition Interlocks are breathalyzers that, in most cases, are installed into a motor vehicle like a car or truck. The Ignition Interlock connects directly to your engine’s ignition system. When you turn your key or push your start button once, you need to perform a breath test. If your results are at, or above, a pre-determined level, the Ignition Interlock will prevent your vehicle from starting. If there is no alcohol content in your system, your vehicle will start and you can drive.
So, is this any different from installing an Ignition Interlock into a tractor? In some states, tractors are considered motor vehicles. But as far as the technical installation process, our experienced technicians can install the Ignition Interlock into the tractor with ease.
Some Ignition Interlock providers won’t offer this service for tractors. But with Smart Start, a company that sets the standard in the Ignition Interlock industry since 1992, when there’s a will, there’s a way!
Smart Start Will Help with Your Ignition Interlock Requirements
Installing our Ignition Interlocks on tractors allows us to help more of our clients get back to their life, especially for farmers who may need tractors to do their jobs. If you have an Ignition Interlock requirement, whether with your court or state, we can accommodate to many motor vehicles, even tractors, so you can reinstate your driving privileges.
A tractor’s installation process is a little different from a regular vehicle’s, but you will still receive device one-on-one training from a friendly service technician. We will walk you through what to expect during your Ignition Interlock program and answer any of your questions. Plus, we offer our clients 24/7/365 service with our bilingual Customer Care Center, even during weekends and holidays.
Need to Install an Ignition Interlock?
Schedule your installation appointment now by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.
Schedule an Installation
Get a quick and easy IID installation with Smart Start! Get started today!
¡Obtenga una instalación rápida y fácil de IID con Smart Start! ¡Empieza hoy mismo!
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7 BAIID Steps to Follow After Graduating a Michigan Treatment Court
If you are a participant in a Michigan treatment court, you may need to continue using your Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device or BAIID after graduation. In other words, your overseeing authority for your BAIID program can change from a court requirement to the state’s. This means your BAIID provider will need to make a couple adjustments to your program, since the court and state’s BAIID requirements may differ.
Below is the BAIID process for you to follow once you graduate treatment or sobriety court, so you know exactly what to do to continue with your life and complete your requirements. Please keep in mind that this process is for drivers who have a court-approved, Ignition Interlock restricted driver’s license!
The 7-Step Process After Treatment Court Graduation for BAIID Users
Not all of these may apply to your case since each one differs. If you call the Administrative Hearing Section of the SOS at 888-767-6424, they will send a packet with all the remaining requirements you need to complete prior to scheduling your hearing date. More information can be found on the state of Michigan’s website.
And that’s it! If you have any questions about your BAIID program, you can always call our Smart Start Michigan team at (800) 831-3299. Our service agents are standing by to provide you answers, tips or any clarifications regarding your Smart Start BAIID. The SOS BAIID program is also available for any questions at 888-767-6424.
Need to Install a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device?
Schedule your Smart Start BAIID installation appointment today by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.
Schedule an Installation
Get a quick and easy IID installation with Smart Start! Get started today!
¡Obtenga una instalación rápida y fácil de IID con Smart Start! ¡Empieza hoy mismo!
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Will I Blow a Violation on My Ignition Interlock from a Dentist Visit?
Will I Blow a Violation on my Ignition Interlock from a Dentist Visit?
Once you need to use an Ignition Interlock, many questions may come to mind about how the device will affect your every-day routine. For example, what happens if you have an Ignition Interlock, but you have a dentist visit coming up soon? Aren’t there some products like mouthwash that could cause a violation in the Ignition Interlock?
Busting the ‘False Positive’ Ignition Interlock Rumor
There’s a lot of rumors about Ignition Interlocks and ‘false positive’ results. Ignition Interlocks require robust, alcohol-specific technology, and state-approved providers must follow rigorous federal standards to provide you their services.
The ‘false positive’ term comes from an Ignition Interlock displaying a violation even when the user did not consume an alcoholic beverage. The fact is, many every-day items we use such as mouthwash have properties like ethanol or menthol, which is alcohol. The device’s purpose is to test for alcohol, so the device will detect this consumed alcohol.
If your Ignition Interlock shows you did not pass your breath test, don’t panic. We have a simple tip for you to use before you provide the follow-up test.
Rinsing Your Mouth with Water Before Each Breath Test
When you visit the dentist, you may come across certain items that could contain alcohol or alcohol properties in them, such as dental tools that have a peppermint or mint flavor, or you are using mouthwash. All you have to do is rinse your mouth with water before testing with your Ignition Interlock. The dissipation rate is quick with consumed alcohol like mouthwash, so you can take your breath test and be on your way. Smart Start recommends swishing your mouth with water before any Ignition Interlock test!
If you have any Ignition Interlock questions, feel free to give our Customer Care Center a call at (800) 831-3299. We’d be happy to assist you and educate you on anything Ignition Interlock-related to alleviate any concerns.
Need an Ignition Interlock?
If you must install an Ignition Interlock, you can trust Smart Start to get you back on the road the quickest. Schedule your installation appointment today by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.
Schedule an Installation
Get a quick and easy IID installation with Smart Start! Get started today!
¡Obtenga una instalación rápida y fácil de IID con Smart Start! ¡Empieza hoy mismo!
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When Will I Need an Ignition Interlock in Louisiana?
Do you know when you’ll need an Ignition Interlock in Louisiana because of a DWI? You will likely need to install a device since Louisiana requires an Ignition Interlock for most DWI cases. Let’s go over in more detail when you need to get your Ignition Interlock, and how long you’ll need one.
Ignition Interlock Law in Louisiana
A driver who is arrested for a DWI and submits to a chemical test, or refuses the test, for intoxication may need to install an Ignition Interlock. You will also need an Ignition Interlock if your DWI involved vehicular negligent injury and/or death. In a lot of cases, you must install your Ignition Interlock upon a conviction of a DWI.
The Ignition Interlock installation requirement will either come from a condition of reinstating your driving privileges or upon issuance of a restricted hardship license.
About the Restricted Hardship License
The restricted hardship license allows you to drive again, but you need to have an Ignition Interlock installed into your vehicle to keep this license valid. This hardship license is also not eligible for everyone. If you wish to know if you’re eligible for the hardship license, you can double-check with the Office of Motor Vehicles at 225-925-6146.
It’s important to note that the effective date that will count toward your Ignition Interlock requirement will be the date of your reinstatement, or the date your restricted hardship license is issued.
Below are the typical requirement periods for an Ignition Interlock in Louisiana.
How Long You’ll Need an Ignition Interlock in Louisiana
Have any questions about the Ignition Interlock law in Louisiana? Smart Start can help at (800) 831-3299. We are the state’s Ignition Interlock experts with a 24/7/365 customer service team and more than 25 years of industry experience. If you do need to install an Ignition Interlock, you can trust Smart Start to get you back on the road the quickest!
Need an Ignition Interlock in Louisiana?
Ignition Interlock. More Than a Product. It’s a Program.™
Install an Ignition Interlock now with the Top-Rated Ignition Interlock Provider™ in the U.S. We are an industry leader with many locations, a discreet device and an affordable program. Schedule your installation appointment today by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.
Schedule an Installation
Get a quick and easy IID installation with Smart Start! Get started today!
¡Obtenga una instalación rápida y fácil de IID con Smart Start! ¡Empieza hoy mismo!
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What to Expect After a First DWI in Arkansas
Do you know what to expect after a first DWI in Arkansas? This can be a stressful time, but it doesn’t have to be if you know a little more about your situation and what your next steps are after your DWI 1st Offense in Arkansas. Let’s go over what a typical first DWI in Arkansas timeline looks like. Keep in mind that every Arkansas DWI/DUI is different depending on various circumstances, but this information should help with general expectations regarding your case.
A First DWI in Arkansas
First, you should know that a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) refers to adult drivers who had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. Arkansas uses the term DUI for underage drivers with a BAC under .08.
Upon arrest, the officer will provide you with important paperwork that you must keep for your case. One of the papers will be a Notice of Suspension/Revocation of Driving Privilege regarding your driver’s license. This means your driver’s license was taken and it will list your next steps once you get out of jail.
After your DWI or DUI arrest, you can be held in jail for six hours or bond out. You can contact a bail bond company or have someone you know like a family member or friend to bond you out.
Your Administrative Hearing
Now the Arkansas Department of Motor Vehicles or DMV will become involved in your DUI/DWI charge. The DMV or Driver Control will be the oversight agency related to your driver’s license suspension. Keep in mind that the DMV’s consequences are separate from your criminal charges in court.
You will have seven days from your arrest date to visit the DMV and request an administrative hearing if you took the breath test or if you refused it. Keep in mind that if you do not request a hearing, your license suspension will start 30 days from the date that you received your notice.
The following can occur as a mix of criminal and administrative penalties from a first DWI conviction in Arkansas.
When to Install an Ignition Interlock Device
You will probably hear the term, ‘ Ignition Interlock Device,’ from either the DMV or your DUI lawyer if you hired one. The DMV will order you to install an Arkansas Ignition Interlock within 45 days from your DWI arrest. Make sure you bring all the applicable paperwork to your Ignition Interlock device installation, like the Installation of Interlock Device and Confirmation of Interlock Requirement forms from Driver Control.
In Arkansas, a first DWI charge will usually mean a six-month license suspension and Ignition Interlock requirement. For a first DUI charge, the license suspension/Ignition Interlock period will last one year.
Smart Start Can Help You Through Your DWI/DUI
Finally, take a deep breath and remember that this is not the end of the world. Start over today by choosing Smart Start, the Most Trusted Ignition Interlock™ provider in Arkansas. If you have any questions about our program, feel free to call our 24/7/365 Customer Care Center by calling (800) 831-3299.
Need an Ignition Interlock in Arkansas?
Smart Start will help you drive again with a reliable, discreet, affordable, best Ignition Interlock. Receive your quote and your closest service center location now by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.
Schedule an Installation
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¡Obtenga una instalación rápida y fácil de IID con Smart Start! ¡Empieza hoy mismo!
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When Will I Need an Ignition Interlock in Ohio?
Are you wondering if you need an Ignition Interlock in Ohio because of an OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) arrest or conviction? In Ohio, an Ignition Interlock is mandatory for repeat OVI cases, but the device could still be a possibility for a first-time OVI charge because each case is at the judge’s discretion. We’ll go over in more detail when you’ll need an Ignition Interlock in Ohio below.
Ignition Interlock in Ohio: When Is It Mandatory?
An Ignition Interlock is required if you want to drive again during your license suspension period in Ohio. You can opt for this device to receive limited driving privileges if this option is available to you. The court may issue either limited or unlimited driving privileges.
Here’s the different circumstances surrounding an OVI case that will require an Ignition Interlock. If you refused your chemical test, the penalties surrounding your OVI case can increase.
Probation Condition
If imposed, as a condition of probation by the court, you may need to obtain a specially marked driver’s license indicating you can only operate a vehicle equipped with an Ignition Interlock.
OVI Convictions
For first and second OVIs, the court may order you to use the Ignition Interlock when using an occupational license.
You can install your Ignition Interlock as soon as 15 days after conviction, although your attorney or court may suggest otherwise. Your Ignition Interlock period can last anywhere between six to 18 months. This is known as “Annie’s Law” in Ohio. A one-year license suspension could also be reduced by half (six months) from your judge. You should also keep in mind that if there’s an alcohol violation or skipped test recorded, the court can sanction up to the full suspension for these actions.
You should qualify to install your Ignition Interlock 45 days after conviction. The Ignition Interlock requirement period will be between one to four years.
The court will require an Ignition Interlock when using an occupational license. Your judge will determine the length of your suspension period, and whether you will receive limited or unlimited driving privileges. This period could last as little as one year, but can be lifetime.
Have any questions? Smart Start is the most trusted Ignition Interlock provider™ in Ohio. We know Ohio OVI law and have helped more than a million drivers get their driving privileges back. Feel free to ask our 24/7/365 Customer Care Center any questions at (800) 831-3299.
Install an Ignition Interlock Now in Ohio
Smart Start can get you back on the road fast with a discreet device, an affordable program, many locations and friendly service. Schedule your installation appointment today by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.
Schedule an Installation
Get a quick and easy IID installation with Smart Start! Get started today!
¡Obtenga una instalación rápida y fácil de IID con Smart Start! ¡Empieza hoy mismo!
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What to Expect After a First DUI in California
Do you know what to expect after a first DUI charge in California? For most DUI convictions in Los Angeles, Alameda, Tulare and Sacramento Counties, you’ll have to install an Ignition Interlock Device or car breathalyzer into your vehicle. DUI cases elsewhere in California could mandate an Ignition Interlock, but each case is at the judge’s discretion.
Let’s go over what occurs after a first DUI in California, and when you need to install the Ignition Interlock.
A First DUI in California Timeline
Arrest and Bonding Out
First, a DUI arrest in California means an automatic suspension of your driver’s license. The arresting officer forwards your information to the DMV. After your arrest, you need to bond out of jail. If you cannot bond out, your hearing with a judge will occur normally within 72 hours.
After your jail time is up, you can request an administrative hearing with the DMV to contest your automatic license suspension within 10 days from your arrest date.
If you do not schedule your hearing, your driver’s license revocation period begins on the 11th day from your arrest date. You may want to hire a DUI attorney at this point, whether you request a hearing or not, because they can advise you on next steps such as when to install an Ignition Interlock if eligible or when to file for an SR-22 in California.
The hearing itself will usually occur within 60 days from your request date. You can drive up until your hearing date because of the Order of Suspension and Temporary License that the arresting officer provided you.
The Administrative Hearing
If you lose your hearing, your DUI driver’s license suspension will go into effect. Your suspension period will last four months if you took the alcohol chemical test under a first time DUI. However, if you refused your chemical test, your license suspension will last a year. Keep in mind that the DMV and your court are two separate entities involved in your DUI case. The DMV is taking administrative action against your driving privileges, and your court is imposing sanctions against the DUI conviction.
Court Hearing
A court hearing for your DUI offense will also happen within 60 to 90 days from your arrest, although attorneys can push cases out for up to a year. A DUI probation sentence under a first time DUI normally means the following:
Ignition Interlock in California
For any DUI conviction, felony DUI with injury, or vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated in Alameda, Los Angeles, Sacramento or Tulare County, you’ll need to install an Ignition Interlock in any California vehicle that you own or operate. The Ignition Interlock restriction period depends on the circumstances around your California DUI case, but in general, the average period is between five to 12 months. Keep in mind that an Ignition Interlock can be ordered by the California DMV, your judge or probation officer. Your attorney, court and/or the DMV can advise you on when to install an Ignition Interlock to comply with your requirements.
Good thing we have the easiest Interlock device to use! Have any questions about the Ignition Interlock program in California? Feel free to call our Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299 and our service agents will help you.
Install an Ignition Interlock Now
Let Smart Start get you back on the road fast with a reliable device, many locations, friendly service and an affordable program. Schedule your California Interlock installation appointment today by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.
Schedule an Installation
Get a quick and easy IID installation with Smart Start! Get started today!
¡Obtenga una instalación rápida y fácil de IID con Smart Start! ¡Empieza hoy mismo!
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What’s the Difference Between BAC Versus BrAC for Alcohol Measurement?
What’s the difference between BAC and BrAC when measuring alcohol content? And why does Ignition Interlock Device technology use BrAC?
The Difference Between BAC and BrAC
Here’s the meaning behind BAC and BrAC. BAC stands for blood alcohol concentration and BrAC is breath alcohol concentration. Both measure the alcohol content in your body but in different ways. It doesn’t take rocket science to figure that one will measure your alcohol concentration through your blood and the other through your breath, so let’s get more specific on why BrAC is used for Ignition Interlocks.
Why We Use BrAC or Breath Alcohol Concentration for Ignition Interlock Devices
To understand why BrAC is used in Ignition Interlock technology rather than BAC, we need to go through the science of alcohol consumption.
When you consume alcohol, you can eliminate it in several ways, like through urine, sweat or your breath. Alcohol can be measured with your breath due to this elimination process in your body, so using BrAC is a reliable method to detect your alcohol concentration.
The two, BrAC and BAC, are a direct correlation of each other. Breath alcohol is a measurement of blood alcohol in a person, or in other words, a measurement of the amount of alcohol in a person’s blood. Using BrAC for your Ignition Interlock is less invasive than BAC because to measure BAC, you’d have to do a blood draw.
One current limitation to breath testing is that it only measures alcohol, whereas a blood test can measure alcohol and drugs. Measuring your BrAC is fit for Ignition Interlock technology, however, since measuring your alcohol content is its main purpose, and its goal is to Separate Drinking From Driving®.
Over decades of research, evaluation and litigation prove the reliability of using breath testing to measure someone’s alcohol content. That’s why federal and state-approved Ignition Interlock Devices have robust technology that measures your BrAC and is an acceptable industry practice.
If you do need to install an Ignition Interlock, know that you are in good hands during your program. And if Smart Start is your provider, you are in even better hands. We are a trusted provider that’s given more than a million drivers the privilege to get behind the wheel again with an Ignition Interlock that’s discreet and affordable.
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Smart Start is here for you if you need to install an Ignition Interlock or car breathalyzer. You can find out in minutes your quote and your nearest service location. Make sure to ask for any current discounts or specials in your area! Just call (800) 831-3299 or fill out our online form and you’ll be back on the road in no time.
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