If you are convicted of a DUI in Florida, you may be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device into your vehicle.
The Ignition Interlock Device is a tool to help those convicted of a DUI get back on the road again safely. For instance, before you start your vehicle, you need to blow into the device’s mouthpiece. After a few seconds, the Ignition Interlock will display your breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) results. If your BrAC level is too high, your vehicle won’t start.
When Do I Install an Ignition Interlock Device?
You will have a driver’s license revocation or cancellation period that will take effect on your conviction date. Before the end of this revocation period, you’ll need to apply for a restricted license.
Make sure to install your Ignition Interlock Device right away before you receive your restricted license. Why? Because the state will not issue you the restricted license until you have an Ignition Interlock Device installed.
Be sure to get your restricted license immediately after installing your Ignition Interlock! Your time with your Ignition Interlock does not start counting toward your required time until you have the restricted license in hand. The Ignition Interlock restricted license has the letter ‘P’ on it.
In addition, expect to install an Ignition Interlock Device on every vehicle you own and operate. If you don’t own a vehicle, you still need to install and use an Ignition Interlock Device to meet your requirements in Florida. You’ll need to borrow a family member or friend’s car with written permission. Once your device is installed with Smart Start, we will send proof of your installation to your State Authority.
Who Needs to Use an Ignition Interlock Device in Florida?
Below will help visualize who needs to use an Ignition Interlock Device and for how long.
Conviction(s): How Long You’ll Have Your Ignition Interlock Device
First: Only if court-ordered
First if BrAC at arrest was .15 or above or minor was in car: At least 6 months
Second: At least 1 year
Second if BrAC at arrest was .15 or above or minor was in car: At least 2 years
Third: At least 2 years
Four+ Convictions: At least 5 years
DUI Manslaughter: At least 2 years
An Ignition Interlock Device can also be installed for individuals in the pretrial process.
Keep in mind that an Ignition Interlock Device is only one requirement out of several for a DUI conviction. However, you can still call Smart Start if you need any clarification about general DUI regulations in Florida.
Read more about Florida DUI and Ignition Interlock laws, forms and FAQs on our website.
Where Can I Get a State-Approved Ignition Interlock Device?
Need an Ignition Interlock? Smart Start can provide you an affordable, reliable device and round-the-clock customer service. We also have the most service centers out of any other vendor in Florida!
Call us today at (800) 831-3299 or fill out our online form.
Why Do Ignition Interlock Vendors Ask for My VIN Number?
Why Do Ignition Interlock Vendors Ask for My VIN Number?
When you select an Ignition Interlock vendor, the technician at the service shop may ask you for the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to your vehicle. So, why do Ignition Interlock service shops need this information?
Your Vehicle’s VIN Number and Ignition Interlock Vendors
In some cases, Smart Start, and other vendors, are required by the state to have your VIN number in our records. This helps us stay apprised of your information to best assist you, and is the key identifier to your vehicle specifically. Just like our fingerprints, no two VIN numbers are the same. That’s why it’s important to have your vehicle’s make, model, color, year, and in addition, your VIN number.
Smart Start does not distribute your information to anyone besides your State Authority. We keep our clients’ information safe and secure!
Need an Ignition Interlock?
Choose Smart Start to get back on the road again with a reliable Ignition Interlock. We also have a 24/7/365 Customer Care Center with agents who are ready to assist you. Plus, Smart Start offers state discounts or specials. Call us today to schedule an installation appointment 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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Can I Schedule My Ignition Interlock Calibration Appointment Out of State?
Smart Start wants your Ignition Interlock program to be successful and easy. That’s why our clients can visit any Smart Start service center for their calibration appointments. You don’t have to visit the same service center where your device was installed. For example, you can get your device calibrated at a Smart Start center near your work rather than the one closer to home. As long as it’s within your state, you’re ready to go.
Ignition Interlock Calibration Appointments Outside of My State
However, sometimes your work or travel may take you out of state. In most cases, a calibration appointment can be performed at a Smart Start service center in another state, although we strongly suggest checking with your State Authority beforehand. Also, be sure to ask your Smart Start technician to calibrate your Ignition Interlock Device according to the regulations in your home state.
Need to Check on Your Next Calibration Appointment?
Just press the pound sign (#), then 1 on your device. The screen will tell you when your next calibration appointment date is.
Count on Smart Start for the Best Ignition Interlock
Smart Start ensures a seamless and easy Ignition Interlock program with a reliable device and round-the-clock service. Fill out our form today or call our Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299.
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 Device in Florida?
If you are convicted of a DUI in Florida, you may be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device into your vehicle.
The Ignition Interlock Device is a tool to help those convicted of a DUI get back on the road again safely. For instance, before you start your vehicle, you need to blow into the device’s mouthpiece. After a few seconds, the Ignition Interlock will display your breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) results. If your BrAC level is too high, your vehicle won’t start.
When Do I Install an Ignition Interlock Device?
You will have a driver’s license revocation or cancellation period that will take effect on your conviction date. Before the end of this revocation period, you’ll need to apply for a restricted license.
Make sure to install your Ignition Interlock Device right away before you receive your restricted license. Why? Because the state will not issue you the restricted license until you have an Ignition Interlock Device installed.
Be sure to get your restricted license immediately after installing your Ignition Interlock! Your time with your Ignition Interlock does not start counting toward your required time until you have the restricted license in hand. The Ignition Interlock restricted license has the letter ‘P’ on it.
In addition, expect to install an Ignition Interlock Device on every vehicle you own and operate. If you don’t own a vehicle, you still need to install and use an Ignition Interlock Device to meet your requirements in Florida. You’ll need to borrow a family member or friend’s car with written permission. Once your device is installed with Smart Start, we will send proof of your installation to your State Authority.
Who Needs to Use an Ignition Interlock Device in Florida?
Below will help visualize who needs to use an Ignition Interlock Device and for how long.
Conviction(s): How Long You’ll Have Your Ignition Interlock Device
First: Only if court-ordered
First if BrAC at arrest was .15 or above or minor was in car: At least 6 months
Second: At least 1 year
Second if BrAC at arrest was .15 or above or minor was in car: At least 2 years
Third: At least 2 years
Four+ Convictions: At least 5 years
DUI Manslaughter: At least 2 years
An Ignition Interlock Device can also be installed for individuals in the pretrial process.
Keep in mind that an Ignition Interlock Device is only one requirement out of several for a DUI conviction. However, you can still call Smart Start if you need any clarification about general DUI regulations in Florida.
Read more about Florida DUI and Ignition Interlock laws, forms and FAQs on our website.
Where Can I Get a State-Approved Ignition Interlock Device?
Need an Ignition Interlock? Smart Start can provide you an affordable, reliable device and round-the-clock customer service. We also have the most service centers out of any other vendor in Florida!
Call us 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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SERIES: Specialty Treatment Courts Aim to Help U.S. Veterans Recover From Drug/Alcohol Addiction, PTSD
Veterans court is one of the newer treatment courts in the U.S. justice system that is focused on military personnel. The first veterans court was in Buffalo, New York, with a focus on medical and mental health treatment, assistance in finding a job, housing and transportation.
It turned out to be a great success, with many veterans getting their charges reduced or dismissed. Plus, none of the veterans who completed the program re-offended.
Veterans Courts in the U.S.
Since its inception in 2008, there are nearly 50 veterans’ treatment courts throughout the states now. They integrate both the drug and mental health court model to help military veterans. The program length ranges by state, but could be anywhere from six months to two years.
The program was developed to keep veterans who may suffer PTSD-related symptoms from being incarcerated without proper aid. Instead, in veterans treatment courts, they can go through a rehabilitation-type process with a chance for treatment, recovery and the chance to live a normal life again.
Who Goes to Veterans Court, and What’s It Like?
Most judges only offer the veterans treatment court program to individuals who were charged with a non-violent crime. For instance, some participants being convicted for a first DUI or DWI offense. Sometimes, active military personnel are also eligible to go through veterans’ court.
Individuals have a choice whether they want to attend the specialized court or not. If they do decide to participate, a mental health provider assesses the individual. Once the program starts, a judge continuously monitors their progress while they go through treatment. The individual will also have a mentor, typically from a local veteran’s assistance group.
Veterans’ Justice Outreach
There’s a program from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs that works together with these treatment courts to further help veterans.
Veterans’ Justice Outreach (VJO) works to “avoid the unnecessary ‘criminalization’ of mental illness and extended incarceration among veterans.” To do this, the group ensures that eligible veterans have access to Veterans Health Administration (VHA) services before there’s a decision made to incarcerate them. For instance, VJO will help justice-involved veterans in local courts and jails and assess them while working with the local justice system.
Specialty Courts Series
Need an Ignition Interlock?
Smart Start also wants to assist all military personnel who are convicted or arrested because of a DUI. For any individuals who need an Ignition Interlock to get back on the road, we can provide a reliable device and round-the-clock customer service. Call us 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 is DUI School Like and What Can I Expect?
If you have a DUI, you may have the option to attend a special class in alcohol education. Usually called DUI School, or an alcohol training program, the classes revolve around education and treatment on alcohol consumption. The classes are court ordered alongside other penalties from committing a DUI. In fact, DUI School can often be a less severe alternative as opposed to harsher sentences such as court fines or a suspended license.
When Am I Required to Attend DUI School?
The required period for attending DUI School can range on a case by case basis. For instance, if this case was your first, second or subsequent DUI offense. It can also depend on your state’s DUI regulations. Whichever the case, the classes are meant to reform one’s mindset when it comes to drinking and driving, and the danger it poses to themselves and everyone else.
In most states, you need to complete your DUI School requirement before applying for a restricted, temporary or Ignition Interlock-restricted license. So, your classes will be near the top of your checklist pertaining to your DUI case requirements. On the other hand, if this was your first offense, DUI School may be the only requirement you need to complete before driving again. However, this decision is up to your court and/or state regulations.
Check back on our blog to learn more about DUI Schools state-by-state. We will go over how long you need to attend, which programs you can choose and more.
Need to Get Back on the Road?
If you need an Ignition Interlock to drive again, choose Smart Start. We offer a robust and reliable device with tests that only last seconds. Plus, our Customer Care Center is full of knowledgeable, friendly specialists who are ready to help at any time.
Schedule your installation appointment through our short, online form, or call us at (800) 831-3299.
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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SERIES: What Does ABORT LOCK/TEMP LOCK Mean on My Ignition Interlock?
Did you receive an ABORT LOCK or TEMP LOCK message on your Smart Start Ignition Interlock Device? There’s no need to worry about this message, and it doesn’t mean you are receiving a violation.
ABORT LOCK or TEMP LOCK means that you have exceeded the allowed number of aborts during a 15-minute period. A passing test did not occur in other words.
Your device could also read this result as LOCK XX:XX. The X’s will be numbers on your screen representing a certain countdown time. You’ll need to wait until the countdown completes before you attempt another test.
What you need to do is adjust how you are testing with your Ignition Interlock.
How Do I Fix My Testing with the ABORT LOCK/TEMP LOCK Result?
Keep in mind that this does not mean a failed test! Take a few deep breaths, rinse your mouth with water, and attempt your Ignition Interlock test again. We also advise blowing air through your nose as you perform your test to maintain a consistent airflow.
If you continue to have trouble, you always have our Customer Care Center team to help. Give us a call at (800) 831-3299 and we can determine the error and adjust your testing pattern. You can also review the Ignition Interlock training video and manual again on our website.
There you have it! If you are receiving other messages on your device that you’re unclear of, you can find out what they mean on our blog.
Need an Ignition Interlock?
If you must install an Ignition Interlock per a court or state order, choose Smart Start. We can assist you from start to finish during your program with a reliable device and service. Fill out our short online form or call at (800) 831-3299.
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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My Vehicle With My Ignition Interlock Inside Got Stolen! What Do I Do?
If you’re required to use it, an Ignition Interlock Device is the key to driving again and getting back to your everyday routine. But what if the device, or your vehicle with the Ignition Interlock inside it, is stolen?
What Do I Do If My Vehicle with the Ignition Interlock Got Stolen?
First, don’t panic. This will already be a stressful time if you found out your vehicle and/or device was stolen. After you file your report with the police, call Smart Start’s Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299. Keep in mind that you should NOT drive while you don’t have an Ignition Interlock device!
Although our process is simple and stress-free when this situation occurs, there’s one way clients can make sure they won’t have to pay a lot in replacement fees.
Get the Right Protection with Smart Start’s Warranty
Smart Start’s warranty agreement protects you if your vehicle is stolen, making your Ignition Interlock one less stressful situation to deal with. We will replace your device free of charge once you retrieve your vehicle back, or if you rent or buy another vehicle. This is a much better alternative than paying thousands in replacement fees! Just remember to ask a friend or family member to drive you to our service center. If you drive without your device, it’ll be another problem to deal with!
Smart Start’s warranty is optional, and is available when you sign your lease agreement at our service center. Our lease agreement will specify in detail what your warranty means and what is covered, so it is important to look over it thoroughly before deciding. The pricing will vary by state, but is no more than an additional $5 to $10 a month. Again, the cost of a few dollars a month is better than paying a lot more in replacement fees!
Keep in mind that the warranty only covers you if your vehicle is stolen with the device inside! Only Virginia will honor the warranty if the device itself is stolen from your vehicle.
For clients who needed to purchase a vehicle to install your Ignition Interlock, make sure that you still have the car secured, such as locking the doors and rolling up the windows.
If your vehicle with the device inside is stolen, Smart Start will assist you and go through the next steps. Just call our team at (800) 831-3299.
Get Back on the Road with Smart Start!
Need an Ignition Interlock Device? Smart Start’s team will assist you throughout your program, from start to finish. Call today at (800) 831-3299 or fill out our simple 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 Are Specialty Courts, and What Does That Mean for Drug/Alcohol Offenders?
Giving someone a second chance can lead to them not committing the same crimes again.
The first specialty court model, drug courts, have a heightened focus on criminal adult offenders who are involved in cases with drugs or alcohol. Other court types, typically called problem-solving courts, use this drug court model to focus on other serious issues, such as mental health or domestic violence.
Specialty Courts Overview
Giving someone another chance is ultimately what specialty courts aim to do, with an effective, educational alternative rather than incarceration. These courts work to prevent an offender from repeating the same crimes with more intense supervision, focused treatment and rehabilitation services.
According to the National Association of Drug Court Professionals (NADCP), the different specialty courts include:
Do Specialty Courts Work?
According to NADCP, specialty courts do change lives, with 75 percent of adult criminal drug court graduates not committing their crimes again. Drug courts specifically have been in effect for over 20 years. They focus on individuals in the criminal justice system who have an addiction to drugs and/or alcohol. Because its mission is about treatment rather than punishment, drug courts have been proven to reduce drug abuse and crime.
Specialty courts keep communities safe and helps families stay together. Currently, there are 2,734 specialty courts in the U.S. serving over 136,000 people. With a combination of rehabilitation, accountability and focused treatment, individuals have a chance to get back on track with their lives.
The proper tools can also help with addiction, such as Ignition Interlocks. An Ignition Interlock Device can detect someone’s breath alcohol content before they start their vehicle, and is often required if someone is convicted of a DUI. With the right tools and treatment, nothing stops someone from transforming their lives and getting back to a normal routine again.
Specialty Courts Series
Get Back on the Road with Smart Start!
Need an Ignition Interlock? Choose a reliable device with 24/7/365 customer service. Call 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 If I Get Stopped by Police and I Have an Ignition Interlock?
You may have an alcohol breathalyzer, or Ignition Interlock, because of a court or state requirement. If you are driving and get stopped by police, you’ll need to pull over … and then what happens?
An Officer Will Know You Have an Interlock-Restricted Driver’s License
When a police officer looks at your driver’s license, he or she will know that you are Interlock-restricted. If you are pulled over on suspicion of a situation unrelated, speeding for example, nothing could happen related to your Ignition Interlock requirement. However, regardless of why they pulled you over, the officer could ask you to turn off your car, re-start it and take a test on the device to prove your sobriety.
Starting the Car Without Providing a Breath Test
If an individual tampers with their device, they could be arrested for not complying with their Ignition Interlock requirements. Even more consequences will occur if they are caught driving a vehicle without their Ignition Interlock, such as hefty fines, a longer suspension period, jail time and/or your car being impounded.
Smart Start encourages anyone who needs an Ignition Interlock to follow the rules. You can read up on your state’s Ignition Interlock laws, and ask your State Authority about any details of your case. Smart Start’s Customer Care Center can answer any questions related to your Ignition Interlock at (800) 831-3299.
Ignition Interlocks allow individuals to drive again and get back to their everyday routine. The alternative is not being able to drive at all.
Get Back on the Road with Smart Start
Do you need to use an Ignition Interlock? Our team can provide you any current Interlock discounts and set up your installation appointment. Call Smart Start at (800) 831-3299 or fill out our online form today.
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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SERIES: What Does RECALL 3 Mean on My Ignition Interlock?
Did you just receive a Recall 3 message on your Ignition Interlock Device? Here’s where you can find out what Recall 3 means, and what to do next.
What Does the Recall 3 Message Mean on My Ignition Interlock?
Recall 3 means either there’s curly cord or vehicle battery problems. The curly cord is what the head unit of your device connects to in your vehicle.
Keep in mind that you should NOT ignore the Recall 3 reading on your device! It is best to call our Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299 if you receive this message, however, there are a couple of tactics you can do yourself first.
How Do I Fix My Device When It Reads Recall 3?
Curly Cord
Vehicle Battery
Other Ignition Interlock Abort Messages
Get Back on the Road with Smart Start!
With many locations nationwide and a reliable 24/7/365 Customer Care Center, Smart Start’s available to help you with your Ignition Interlock needs. Call our team today at (800) 831-3299 or fill out our simple online form to start driving again.
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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