Do you know what happens after a first DWI in North Carolina? Let’s go over a typical timeline for a first DWI, what circumstances can occur and what your next steps are. Keep in mind that below is what usually can happen after a first-time DWI, but every case is at the judge’s discretion. You should also know that North Carolina DWIs fall under both administrative and court penalties.
DWI Arrest
First, you have probably been sentenced to a minimum of 24 hours in jail or 24 hours community service, with a maximum sentence of 120 days. You’ll also receive the following:
- A fine of up to $200
- Court costs
- Some type of probation (normally it is unsupervised)
- A requirement that you complete a substance abuse assessment
- Comply with any recommended treatment or education, and
- Comply with any other conditions of probation the judge may impose.
You will need to complete the substance abuse treatment in order to be eligible for a limited driving privilege (LDP) and prior to full restoration of your driver’s license. Read more about the LDP process below under the administrative side of your DWI case.
Your Driver’s License – Administrative Side
Upon arrest, your driver’s license is immediately revoked for 30 days. If you refused your chemical test, this means a mandatory, one-year license suspension will occur.
You have 10 days from your date of arrest to visit your DMV office and request an administrative hearing. Typically, hearing officers will provide you a restricted license with a curfew if you meet all the qualifications for this license for the next 20 days. After 30 days, you will receive your original driver’s license back until your court date.
Trial and Conviction
If you are convicted for a DWI, the penalties involved depends on various factors in North Carolina. There are generally six sentencing levels. Level A1 is the most serious and Level 5 is the least serious.
If your BAC was at .15 or higher and this is a first DWI, there will be a 45-day license suspension period after conviction before the Limited Driving Privilege (LDP) can take effect.
You may also need to undergo other requirements such as a substance abuse assessment and treatment or education course.
Ignition Interlock Installation
North Carolina requires an Ignition Interlock for first-time DWI cases if your BAC was .15 or higher on all vehicles registered to you. The typical requirement period with an Ignition Interlock is one year. Some aggravating circumstances can change this requirement period and other penalties.
Below is a table that shows the Ignition Interlock and driver’s license circumstances surrounding a first DWI in North Carolina, and how Smart Start can help.
| Record |
License Revocation Period |
How Smart Start Can Help |
Ignition Interlock Device or IID Requirement |
| First DWI conviction and a BAC of .15 or more |
One year |
When eligible after 45 days, you can obtain an LDP if you have an Ignition Interlock. Or, at end of one year, you become immediately eligible for a license with an Ignition Interlock |
One year – for the use of an Ignition Interlock with an LDP, the DMV will issue a credit toward one year |
If you do need to install an Ignition Interlock into your vehicle, Smart Start can get you back on the road the quickest. We provide a discreet and reliable IID with an affordable program and friendly customer service.
Install an Ignition Interlock in North Carolina Now
Schedule your installation appointment at your nearest Smart Start service center today by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.
Does CBD Oil Affect My Ignition Interlock?
Let’s face it. There are probably tons of questions someone’s thinking about who must have an Ignition Interlock in their vehicle. It’s a new process, and you want to know what to do to make your time with the device as seamless as possible. One question could be about which kinds of products you use every day that could “set off” an Ignition Interlock, such as CBD oil. Do the properties in CBD oil affect the Ignition Interlock in any way?
About CBD Oil and Ignition Interlocks
CBD is short for cannabidiol, a compound that is in the cannabis plant. Some may associate CBD oil with marijuana or pot because it comes from the same plant, but many CBD oil products carry less than .3 percent of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) or no THC at all. CBD comes in many forms, but when you have the oil and you are using it orally, it’s valid to wonder if your Ignition Interlock will be affected since the device measures your breath test samples. With that said, let’s go over what makes up an Ignition Interlock.
In general, all state-approved Ignition Interlocks are manufactured with fuel cell technology, which is alcohol-specific and measures your breath alcohol concentration or BrAC. So when you are using your CBD oil, the Ignition Interlock will not be affected because there is no alcohol in CBD oil. However, if your CBD oil has properties like menthol or ethanol because of its flavor, make sure to swish your mouth with water before taking a breath test. Flavored CBD oil like peppermint may have these properties that your device will detect. Regardless, we always recommend you swish your mouth with water before any breath test.
If there are other products you use with alcohol in them like mouthwash, be sure to swish your mouth with water before your Ignition Interlock test.
The Reliability of Ignition Interlock Technology
When you must use an Ignition Interlock, know that you are in good hands. State-approved providers like Smart Start follow federal Ignition Interlock guidelines, providing clients devices that are robust and reliable.
Do you have any other questions about your Ignition Interlock program? Smart Start is happy to help you with our knowledgeable Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299.
Need to Install an Ignition Interlock?
Smart Start is ready to get you back on the road with an affordable Ignition Interlock and 24/7/365 customer service. Get your quote and your closest Smart Start service location today 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 Oklahoma?
Are you wondering if you need to install an Ignition Interlock in Oklahoma because of a DUI? Many DUI cases in Oklahoma do require a person to use an Ignition Interlock. Let’s go over in more detail how long you’ll need the device and when you need to install one.
Requirements for an Ignition Interlock in Oklahoma
First, if your driver’s license was revoked, you may need to install an Ignition Interlock to reinstate your driving privileges. Below are the different requirement periods based on your previous DUI arrests and/or other circumstances that will affect how long you need an Ignition Interlock during the revocation period (such as aggravating factors or driving record.)
Important! There will be two Interlock requirement periods listed below. The Interlock requirements for reinstatement are separate and distinct from the Interlock requirement as a condition for a modified driver’s license during your revocation period. Interlock installation time accrued during the issuance of a modified driver’s license DOES NOT count toward the Ignition Interlock installation time required for reinstatement.
Ignition Interlock Requirement Period for Reinstatement
Ignition Interlock Requirement Period with a Modified Driver’s License
When your license is revoked for a DUI, you may be able to obtain a modified driver’s license, which will allow you to operate a vehicle equipped with an Ignition Interlock under certain circumstances as provided by the Department of Public Safety during the period of revocation. This driver’s license says “Ignition Interlock” on it and you need to install the device before receiving this license. How long you’ll need an Ignition Interlock for the modified driver’s license depends on when you obtain the modification, but the requirement could be for the following periods:
When Do I Need to Install an Ignition Interlock in Oklahoma?
If you hired an attorney for your DUI case, he or she may have advised you to install an Ignition Interlock before your license revocation or before your court hearing. This is a possibility, but your Interlock installation can occur after conviction.
You may be required to install an Ignition Interlock before you even go to court, as a condition of limited driving privileges. Additionally, you may be required to install a device as a condition of reinstating your driving privileges. Finally, after conviction, you could also be required to install the Ignition Interlock as a condition of a deferred sentence and/or probation.
After your Ignition Interlock installation, your provider, such as Smart Start, will provide you a certificate of installation. This certificate should be given or sent to the DPS as proof of installation.
Have any questions about your Ignition Interlock program in Oklahoma? Smart Start is a trusted provider that knows the Oklahoma DUI law and will get you back on the road the quickest. Call our 24/7/365 Customer Care Center for any assistance related to your Ignition Interlock program at (800) 831-3299.
Need an Ignition Interlock in Oklahoma?
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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Is My Ignition Interlock Listening to Me Like Siri?
With the rise of voice and AI recognition technology like Siri on your phone or the Amazon Echo in your home, it’s no wonder that people are wondering if their Ignition Interlocks are ‘watching’ and ‘listening’ to them, too.
Will an Ignition Interlock Watch or Listen to Me? The Truth
Never fear. Your Ignition Interlock is not secretly watching and listening to you. In all seriousness, your device will not record you, ever. Its purpose is to be in your vehicle and take your breath test samples to prove your compliance with your court or state requirements. Ignition Interlocks are also an option to drive again sooner rather than later so you can comfortably get back to work or attend school.
Even our cameras, which may be an additional requirement to your Ignition Interlock, will not record you. We value and respect your privacy and would never take advantage of you.
Choose a Trusted Ignition Interlock Provider
Having said that, if you chose Smart Start as your provider, you are also using robust Ignition Interlock technology that’s reliable and won’t leave you stranded or frustrated. In other words, you and your information are in good hands if you need to install an Ignition Interlock! Smart Start is known for secure and powerful technology and software when housing your information.
If you ever have any questions about your program, feel free to call our Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299. Our friendly agents are here 24/7/365 just to help our clients with any needed assistance or to answer questions.
Need to Install an Ignition Interlock?
Get back on the road fast with Smart Start, the most reliable and trusted leader of Ignition Interlocks since 1992. We know the Ignition Interlock law in your state and will help you reinstate your driving privileges with a discreet device and an affordable program. Schedule your installation appointment and receive a quote with no hidden fees 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 New York
Do you know what to expect after a first DWI in New York? The road to putting this all behind you may seem long, but you have plenty of people to assist you if you become overwhelmed. Your court contact or your attorney can always provide you next steps. And if you need Ignition Interlock assistance, Smart Start knows New York DWI law, and can get you back on the road right away with the most affordable Ignition Interlock and the most supportive, 24/7/365 customer service.
Let’s go over a timeline that shows what typically happens with a first DWI in New York.
A First DWI in New York
First, you should know that there are different limits of legal intoxication in New York. In New York, and across the U.S. except Utah, the legal BAC limit is .08. But for commercial vehicle drivers or those with a CDL license, this limit is .04. New York also defines a BAC level between .05 and .07 as a Driving While Ability Impaired or DWAI offense. If you are under 21-years-old, New York has a zero-alcohol tolerance law.
These are important to know because the penalties for a first DWI or DWAI differ based on circumstances like your BAC level, age and aggravating factors, among other considerations such as your record.
If you are arrested for a DWI or DWAI, a couple scenarios can occur when you go get processed in jail.
Ignition Interlock Requirements in New York
You should also keep in mind the Ignition Interlock Device or IID laws in New York. Your attorney may advise you to go install your IID prior to your court hearing. Normally, however, you will be asked to install an IID within 10 days upon a guilty plea or conviction of your DWI. It’s important to remember that you cannot drive without an IID during this period! Ask a friend or family member to drive you to your Ignition Interlock service center with the vehicle you plan on installing the device in.
Court Hearing
You may have already gone through a hearing with your judge earlier, but otherwise this hearing will occur within 60 to 90 days from your arrest date.
If convicted, below are the typical penalties that can occur based off a first DWAI offense or a first DWI offense.
DWAI First Offense
DWI – First Offense or Misdemeanor Conviction Results in Criminal Record
As far as your IID program, the requirement period is typically as follows:
If you have any questions, feel free to call Smart Start to get on the road again with a reliable IID at (800) 831-3299. We are here to help you navigate through the DWI law with an affordable IID program and friendly service. We’ve helped many New York drivers since 1992, and we can help you, too.
Install a Smart Start Ignition Interlock or IID
Schedule your installation appointment and receive a quote 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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I’m the New Designated Driver Because of My Ignition Interlock
Picture it. You drove your friends out for dinner one night and it’s getting late. Your friends had a few drinks, and you enjoyed the tasty boneless wings. Now that you’re all ready to go, you find out an Uber ride is too expensive. Or public transportation just happened to not be running at the time. There is one option, but you don’t know if you necessarily like it…
Do you feel like you’re the new designated driver for your friends because of the Ignition Interlock in your vehicle?
Designated Drivers Are the Unsung Heroes
It seems like a bummer at first thought, but you may want to change your mind set about the situation: you’re more than just the ride home. You are saving lives by keeping your friends and the rest of the public safe from drunk driving incidents. Plus, your friends can always pay you back with endless food, non-alcoholic beverages or gas money for your valiant efforts.
The number one reason that people drive drunk is because they thought they were OK to drive. Your friend may make a terrible choice that can ruin or end lives if they consumed alcohol and then decide to drive home themselves.
Ignition Interlocks: The Ultimate Tool Against Drunk Driving
With an Ignition Interlock, you cannot start your vehicle if there’s a certain level of alcohol in your system. Any state-approved device is fool-proof with robust technology like the fuel cell that captures someone’s breath alcohol concentration or BrAC in seconds. As you use your Ignition Interlock, you may see it as more of a necessary safety tool than a bother.
Designated drivers may not receive all the thanks that they deserve, but they certainly make a huge difference on our roads. With you joining the ranks, you are making a difference, too.
Do You Need to Install an Ignition Interlock Device?
Schedule an installation appointment with Smart Start 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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Why Does My Ignition Interlock Test Me More Often Than My Friend’s?
If you are using an Ignition Interlock in your vehicle and you also know someone who has a device, you may be wondering why it prompts for a test at random intervals. And it may seem like the device is prompting you for a sample during a rolling retest (or running retest) more often than your friend’s. Why is that, and is there a reason behind the frequency of Ignition Interlock rolling retests?
Ignition Interlock Tests – Are They Random?
The truth is that Ignition Interlock breath tests prompt you at random times after your initial test. (The initial test is when you start your vehicle after providing a breath sample into your Ignition Interlock.)
It may seem like you are providing more tests than your friend, but the tests occur at random intervals per your state’s Interlock regulations. And yes, that means Smart Start, or any other state-approved Interlock company, does not have authority over the frequency of your tests because that portion of your Interlock program is mandated by your state.
The time you have to complete a rolling retest also differs because it is state-regulated. In general, though, you will have between four to six minutes to pull over, safely put your vehicle in park and complete a rolling retest.
Do you have any other questions about your Ignition Interlock program? Smart Start’s agents are here for you to help at (800) 831-3299. Give us a call any time, and we will work to provide you the most convenient Ignition Interlock experience.
Need to Install an Ignition Interlock?
Smart Start can get you back on the road with a discreet Ignition Interlock and an affordable program with many convenient service locations. We can provide you a quote with applicable discounts and your nearest service location details! Feel free to contact our 24/7/365 Customer Care Center either by phone at (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our short 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 North Carolina
Do you know what happens after a first DWI in North Carolina? Let’s go over a typical timeline for a first DWI, what circumstances can occur and what your next steps are. Keep in mind that below is what usually can happen after a first-time DWI, but every case is at the judge’s discretion. You should also know that North Carolina DWIs fall under both administrative and court penalties.
DWI Arrest
First, you have probably been sentenced to a minimum of 24 hours in jail or 24 hours community service, with a maximum sentence of 120 days. You’ll also receive the following:
You will need to complete the substance abuse treatment in order to be eligible for a limited driving privilege (LDP) and prior to full restoration of your driver’s license. Read more about the LDP process below under the administrative side of your DWI case.
Your Driver’s License – Administrative Side
Upon arrest, your driver’s license is immediately revoked for 30 days. If you refused your chemical test, this means a mandatory, one-year license suspension will occur.
You have 10 days from your date of arrest to visit your DMV office and request an administrative hearing. Typically, hearing officers will provide you a restricted license with a curfew if you meet all the qualifications for this license for the next 20 days. After 30 days, you will receive your original driver’s license back until your court date.
Trial and Conviction
If you are convicted for a DWI, the penalties involved depends on various factors in North Carolina. There are generally six sentencing levels. Level A1 is the most serious and Level 5 is the least serious.
If your BAC was at .15 or higher and this is a first DWI, there will be a 45-day license suspension period after conviction before the Limited Driving Privilege (LDP) can take effect.
You may also need to undergo other requirements such as a substance abuse assessment and treatment or education course.
Ignition Interlock Installation
North Carolina requires an Ignition Interlock for first-time DWI cases if your BAC was .15 or higher on all vehicles registered to you. The typical requirement period with an Ignition Interlock is one year. Some aggravating circumstances can change this requirement period and other penalties.
Below is a table that shows the Ignition Interlock and driver’s license circumstances surrounding a first DWI in North Carolina, and how Smart Start can help.
If you do need to install an Ignition Interlock into your vehicle, Smart Start can get you back on the road the quickest. We provide a discreet and reliable IID with an affordable program and friendly customer service.
Install an Ignition Interlock in North Carolina Now
Schedule your installation appointment at your nearest Smart Start service center 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 Do I Need an Ignition Interlock in Nebraska?
Are you wondering if you need an Ignition Interlock in Nebraska? For most DUI cases, you will likely need to install a device into your vehicle. Let’s go over the different circumstances surrounding when you’ll need an Ignition Interlock in Nebraska, and for how long.
Ignition Interlock Requirements in Nebraska
When you were pulled over for suspicion of DUI, or Driving Under the Influence, your driver’s license may have been confiscated. This is called the Administrative License Revocation or ALR law, authorizing law enforcement to revoke your driver’s license and your operating privileges as a result of a DUI arrest. Drivers who are eligible may receive a temporary driver’s license for 15 days.
The driver’s license revocation periods are below, depending on your arrest circumstances:
Now let’s go back to the temporary license you may have received. When the temporary license expires after 15 days, you may be eligible for an Ignition Interlock Permit, or IIP, in Nebraska during your revocation period. You have the right to request an administrative hearing within 10 days from your arrest because of your revoked license, but if you waive your right, you can apply for the IIP instead if eligible. This permit allows you to drive as long as you have an Ignition Interlock installed into your vehicle.
When you can apply for the IIP depends on your hard suspension or revocation period. You need to wait out this period and install an Ignition Interlock into your vehicle before applying for the IIP. You can always call the DMV at 402-271-3985 to find out whether you’re eligible for the IIP or not and when to apply for it.
How Long is My License Revocation Period?
Below are the typical hard suspension periods in Nebraska based on your DUI circumstances.
Additional Tips
Have any questions? The Nebraska website can show you your driving privileges status if you provide your license or social security number, your last name and your date of birth. If you have any questions about the Ignition Interlock program in Nebraska, feel free to call Smart Start at (800) 831-3299. Our friendly service agents will assist you with next steps!
Install the Most Reliable Ignition Interlock in Nebraska
If you need an affordable program, friendly service and a discreet Ignition Interlock Device, Smart Start’s got you covered. We’ll get you back on the road the quickest! All you need to do to schedule an installation appointment or ask questions is call (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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When Will I Need an Ignition Interlock in New Jersey?
Do you know when you will need an Ignition Interlock in New Jersey because of a DUI or DWI? Typically, an Ignition Interlock (otherwise known as an IID) is mandatory for first-time DUIs with a BAC level of .15 or greater or repeat cases. You will also need to install an Ignition Interlock if you refused your chemical test.
Let’s go over in more detail the Ignition Interlock law in New Jersey.
Ignition Interlock Law in New Jersey
First, if you must install one, an Ignition Interlock must be in every vehicle that you own, lease or regularly operate.
Below explains how long you’ll need the Ignition Interlock based on your DUI number. This period occurs during or after your hard license suspension. (1st: 3-month suspension; 1st with a BAC above .10: between seven months to one year; 2nd: Two-year suspension; 3rd or subsequent: 10-year license suspension)
Schedule Your Ignition Interlock Appointment
If you have been ordered to install an Ignition Interlock in New Jersey, you need to schedule an installation appointment with a state-approved provider. This needs to happen before your driving privileges will be restored. Once your Ignition Interlock installation, your provider, such as Smart Start, will give you a Certificate of Interlock Installation Form to bring to the Motor Vehicle Commission or MVC office.
Need an Ignition Interlock in New Jersey Now?
Smart Start can get you back on the road the quickest with 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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Do You Know What to Do Before an Ignition Interlock Lockout?
Updated June 10, 2025
Installing and using an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is a key part of getting back on the road after a DUI for many drivers. However, sometimes an IID will enter “lockout mode.” If you’ve seen a message on your Smart Start IID that says something like “SvcLock” or “ViolLock,” you are either entering lockout mode or will enter it soon.
Don’t panic. Here’s what to do if you’re seeing a lockout message on your Interlock Device — and why Smart Start gives you a grace period on your lockouts.
What is an Interlock Device Lockout?
When your IID goes into lockout mode, you will be unable to start the vehicle and must have it towed to a Smart Start service center. Lockouts happen for one of two reasons:
Whatever the reason for your lockout, the cost of unlocking an IID will always be at the program participant’s expense. This is part of why it’s so important to keep up with your calibration schedule, avoid violations, and respond immediately if your device tells you that you are in a lockout grace period. (We’ll talk more about grace periods in just a minute.)
If your IID has entered lockout mode, you may be able to request an unlock code from Smart Start. This unlock code is temporary, and you must take your vehicle to a Smart Start service center within the designated time frame or your IID will enter lockout mode again. Due to differences in state laws, temporary unlock codes are not available in some states.
Request a Smart Start unlock code here.
Example of a Service Lockout countdown on a Smart Start Ignition Interlock Device. In this case, the vehicle with the IID must be taken to a Smart Start service center within the next 71 hours, or the device will enter lockout mode.
Types of Interlock Device Lockouts
If your Smart Start IID enters lockout mode or is about to enter lockout mode, you’ll see one of the following messages. The exact message depends on what caused the lockout and whether you have a grace period remaining:
The Benefits of an Ignition Interlock Grace Period
One of the many aspects that makes Smart Start’s device the best Ignition Interlock for many drivers’ needs is its lockout grace period. Smart Start’s grace period allows you to drive to a service center within a specified amount of time, so you can get your issue resolved in the event of an Ignition Interlock Device lockout rather than going through the hassle of getting your car towed. With some providers, getting your car towed and leaving you stranded is the only outcome of a lockout!
Some Interlock companies don’t provide convenient service during lockout modes. With Smart Start, we give our clients a grace period before the device even enters lockout mode, and you’ll be able to contact our customer care team 24/7/365 to help you get back on the road. Please note that not all jurisdictions have grace periods in place. If you have specific questions about your service requirements, contact your local jurisdiction or court for more information.
Need an Ignition Interlock?
Smart Start will get you back on the road right away with an affordable Interlock program and a discreet, user-friendly Ignition Interlock Device. Get in touch with our expert Program Advisors and 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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