You just confirmed your scheduled Interlock Device installation appointment at your nearest Smart Start service center, so you are on the right track to getting back on the road again.
But what do you need to take with you to your installation appointment?
Bringing the right materials with you to your Interlock Device install appointment is very important, and can save you a headache if you do not bring the right items.
This blog series will help you figure out what to take to your appointment, whether you are on the East or West Coast. In each blog series, we will break the topics down and group different regions together, as each state’s requirements are different.
To get started, we’ll go over a general guide to prep yourself for your installation day.
You should bring the following items to your appointment, wherever you are in the U.S.:
- Any case paperwork you received
- Your proof of residence
- Photo ID
- Car insurance forms
- Vehicle registration papers

Additional Tips
Remember, you can always ask one of our customer care representatives what you need to bring, as well. Our customer care center is 24/7/365, so we will be able to answer your questions at any time, even during weekends and holidays.
Your installation appointment will usually only take up to an hour. Smart Start recommends blocking off at least two hours, since some vehicles may require a longer period to install the Device. We also understand the significance of working with your vehicle – rest assured that our service technicians will take utmost care while installing the Interlock Device.
Need more information? We have state-by-state FAQ’s on Interlock Device regulations and forms you may need in your area.
Installation Day Series
Part 1 – a general guide on what to bring for your Interlock install day
Part 2 install series by state – Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Nebraska, North Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia
Part 3 install series by state – Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Delaware, and Maryland
Part 4 install series by state – South Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana, Mississippi, Minnesota, Missouri, Arkansas, and Louisiana
Part 5 install series by state – Texas, Oklahoma, South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Alaska and Idaho
Part 6 install series by state – Hawaii, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, California, Oregon, Washington
Need to make an Interlock Device installation appointment? Call Smart Start today at 800-831-3299, or fill out our quick and simple online form.
Can My Vehicle Still Be Serviced with an Interlock Device?
You have an Interlock Device, but now it’s about time to get your vehicle serviced, inspected, or you need to replace your tires.
One question that may come to mind is if you can even have your vehicle serviced or worked on while an Interlock Device is installed.
The answer is, of course!
The Smart Start Way
Smart Start strives to ensure you have a successful and seamless program, not a burdensome process. You can still have your vehicle serviced by a mechanic, but they must go through the proper steps first before working on it.
How to get your vehicle repaired or serviced with an Interlock Device installed
When you visit our website, hover over the Customer Support tab and click on the first option in the dropdown menu, called Repair Bypass Instructions.
Here is where you can read the specific instructions to your state about temporary bypass instructions for your mechanic. He or she will then need to call 800-831-3299 from a business landline. We cannot provide bypass instructions if he or she calls from a cell phone for verification reasons. In addition, we cannot provide bypass instructions to a relative or friend. These instructions are for mechanics only who need to work on your vehicle.
Keep in mind that each state has their own specific requirements for your mechanic to follow, but each state we operate in should be listed for them to choose, whether it is Arizona or Wyoming. For example, some states require that the mechanic fill out a repair bypass form first. You can always ask our 24/7/365 customer care center at 800-831-3299 if you need assistance.
It’s as simple as that! No need to worry, because Smart Start’s got you covered from start to finish during your program.
Do you still need an Interlock Device? Call today to schedule an appointment at 800-831-3299, or fill out our quick and 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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The Benefits of an Optional Interlock Device
You may be thinking of extra safety measures while loved ones, or your teenage children, are behind the wheel. Voluntarily installing an Interlock Device for your vehicle or a child’s is an added step to ensuring their wellbeing and everyone else’s.
Designed to prevent intoxicated individuals from operating a vehicle, a voluntary Ignition Interlock Device has become a powerful tool in the fight against drunk driving.
Why Interlocks?
Interlock Devices are the best technology worldwide to prevent drunken driving. Most Interlock Devices, such as Smart Start’s, have fuel cell technology, which is specific to analyzing breath alcohol content (BrAC.).
The voluntary Ignition Interlock Device is installed in a vehicle and prevents it from starting if the BrAC is above a preset limit, usually 0.02 to 0.04 percent. While these devices are typically associated with court-ordered mandates for an individual with a DUI conviction, they are increasingly being adopted on a voluntary basis by everyday drivers.
Benefits of Voluntary Ignition Interlock
Preventing Impaired Driving
The most apparent benefit of these devices is their ability to prevent impaired driving. By effectively immobilizing a vehicle when a driver’s BrAC exceeds the legal limit, they serve as a powerful deterrent against getting behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol.
Promoting Responsible Behavior
Opting for a voluntary Ignition Interlock demonstrates a commitment to responsible behavior. It encourages individuals to acknowledge the risks associated with impaired driving and take proactive steps to protect themselves and others on the road.
Reducing Accidents and Fatalities
Alcohol–impaired driving remains a leading cause of road accidents and fatalities. Voluntary Ignition Interlock Devices can significantly contribute to reducing these numbers by preventing intoxicated individuals from operating vehicles, thus encouraging sober driving and potentially saving countless lives.
Legal and Financial Consequences
Even a first-time DUI conviction can result in severe legal penalties and financial hardships. A voluntary installation can mean that drivers may not only avoid legal repercussions but also minimize the financial burden associated with legal fees, fines, and increased insurance premiums.
Personal Accountability and Rehabilitation
For individuals with a history of alcohol-related offenses, voluntary Ignition Interlock Devices can serve as tools for personal accountability and rehabilitation. By adhering to strict sober driving standards, these individuals can work towards rebuilding trust and demonstrating their commitment to safer practices behind the wheel.
Smart Start’s Optional Program
Looking for the best Ignition Interlock? Smart Start offers voluntary Interlock Device programs. We’d be happy to alleviate your concerns by making sure a loved one is not drinking and driving, even when you are not present. Plus, many auto insurance companies in certain states will lower premiums for the voluntary use of an Interlock Device, such as Oregon.
Drinking and driving is deadly for everyone, but teenagers have an especially riskier rate of getting in a crash that could involve bodily injury or death. Young drivers are 17 times more likely to die in a crash when they have a .08 BAC level than when they have not been drinking.
Keep in mind that the legal limit for teenage drivers (under 21 years of age) is not .08. In fact, it is illegal nationwide for someone under 21 to have any alcohol in their system while driving.
You can also view your child’s test result reports and make sure everything is going well throughout their Interlock program. The length of the program is up to you.
Do you want to install an Interlock Device? Call Smart Start at 800-831-3299 and we will set you up with an appointment at your closest service center. You can also fill out our quick and simple online form, and we will have a team member reach out to you with a quote.
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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Charging or Changing Your Car Battery with an Ignition Interlock
When installed, your Interlock Device works alongside your vehicle’s other parts in a cooperative, seamless process. For the Interlock Device to function properly, however, parts like your vehicle’s battery needs to be in good condition as well. That may include charging or changing your car’s battery, even with an Ignition Interlock installed.
Sometimes, charging or changing your car battery may need to happen, regardless if you have an Interlock Device. This may be a worrisome thought, but can be a very smooth process with the right steps taken.
Tips for charging your car battery with Ignition Interlock
It’s easy to test if your battery has somehow lost enough power to support your Ignition Interlock Device. Just take a look at your IID.
Press the # sign on your device, and then 2 on the keypad. If your battery is below 12 volts, your battery could prevent your breath sample from registering.
Here’s a list below to make sure everything goes well while you are charging or changing your battery.
If you need additional guidance, contact our Customer Care representatives at (800) 831-3299, and we will help you with speed, efficiency and patience. We are here for you 24/7/365.
Remember, your Smart Start Ignition Interlock Device is designed to work WITH your battery, not against it.
Do you still need an Interlock Device installation appointment scheduled? Call Smart Start today at 800-831-3299 or fill out our quick and simple online form for a quote.
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 Put an Interlock Device on My Work Vehicle?
When ordered to use an Interlock Device, some clients may have this question on their minds if they operate a vehicle on the job.
Can an Ignition Interlock Device be installed into a work vehicle?
Absolutely.
Interlock Devices are meant to determine your sobriety while on the road during your program, not to cause a riff in your everyday routine. That’s why Smart Start will install an Interlock Device into your work vehicle so you can comply with your court or state orders.
All Smart Start needs is your company’s written permission, either on their letterhead or our state-specific form. These forms can be provided to you by our online chat specialists when you fill out the Get a Quote form, or on our website.
There’s a couple of items we need to know before we install the Interlock Device onto your work vehicle.
Is the vehicle registered under your name?
We will ask if the vehicle is registered under your name. If not, we will send an ‘Ignition Interlock Consent to Install’ form for the registered owner to complete. Once notarized by the owner, bring this form with you to your installation appointment at your closest Smart Start service center.
Is it leased?
If the vehicle is leased, you must take to your appointment a letter on the company letterhead. The letter will authorize Smart Start to install the Interlock Device in the vehicle.
Important tips
Keep in mind that some states will need specific forms to have the IID installed in your work vehicle. Please ask your Smart Start customer care representative when you call to find out what you need to do.
Something else to consider is the area where you were convicted, since Interlock Device regulations vary from state-to-state. Some areas allow you to apply for an employer exemption. This exemption allows you to drive a vehicle from your company without an Interlock Device. Again, ask your customer care representative if this applies in your state.
Do you need to make an Interlock Device installation appointment? Call Smart Start today at 800-831-3299 or fill out our quick and simple online form for a quote.
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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Are Random Rolling Retests on Interlock Devices Dangerous?
When searching Ignition Interlock Device (IID) information online, some sites may report that when IID’s prompt for a random rolling retest, it is extremely dangerous. They even say that the IID could shut down your vehicle while you are driving.
Don’t be fooled. No state-approved Interlock Device vendor would create a product that is a safety hazard for you, such as turning your vehicle off, if you fail or miss a rolling retest.
We repeat: State-approved Interlock Devices will NEVER shut your engine off while you are driving your vehicle. You may receive a violation for missing or failing a rolling retest, however.
What are Random Rolling Retests?
Rolling retests are an extremely helpful measure for your program. They ensure that there is no drinking and driving at all. The IID will prompt for a random rolling retest during your drive every 30-45 minutes, but varies state-by-state.
State regulations determine how long you have to perform the rolling retest, but they are usually up to six minutes. This gives you some time to pull over, put your vehicle in park and take a breath test that will only last a few seconds.
Smart Start is here for you
Smart Start is a reputable and state-approved Interlock Device provider, which means you get the best in an IID. The speedy testing and accurate results in all Smart Start IID’s is made possible by fuel cell technology, an alcohol-specific sensor that detects any breath alcohol in your system.
We hope we’ve alleviated the fears you had over some IID myths about random rolling retests generated by other websites. Smart Start’s number one focus is customer service. This means we always strive to make your Interlock Device program seamless and successful.
Do you need an Interlock Device (IID)? Call Smart Start to schedule an installation appointment today at 800-831-3299 or fill out our quick and simple online form to receive a quote.
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 I Need To Be At The Service Center To Get My Interlock Device Installed?
An installation appointment is scheduled, your paperwork is in order, and you are ready to start your Interlock Device program. You may be wondering how installation day is going to go. And do you need to be there for the entire appointment?
Do I need to be present to get my Interlock installed?
It is under your state’s Interlock Device regulations to stay for the entire appointment at our service center. Although our installation appointments only take up to an hour, we understand that you probably have other commitments, such as work, that you need to get back to. That’s why Smart Start’s qualified service technicians will make sure the installation process is fast but efficient for you.
Can my girlfriend/wife or boyfriend/husband go?
You can bring your significant other or family member with you to your appointment. This may be a good idea if you and a family member or boyfriend/girlfriend, spouse, etc. share the vehicle that the Interlock Device will be in.
This hour or two at the service center will be invaluable as you start your Interlock Device program.
You’ll receive hands-on training and take a few tests with your Device. Then, you’ll be comfortable with its operation before getting back on the road.
Imagine driving your vehicle and not knowing how to test into your Device, or what its prompt sounds mean. It is important to stay for your appointment and receive one-on-one training with your Interlock Device.
You also need to watch a short training video that will go into more detail on how to test with your Interlock Device and its different messages. A manual will also be provided to you for future reference. In addition, you can find both the training video and manual, plus more information on your state and our Interlock Device, at smartstartinc.com.
Are you searching for the best Interlock Device? Give Smart Start a call at 800-831-3299 or fill out our simple online form to receive a quick quote.
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 do I need to take to my Interlock Device installation?
You just confirmed your scheduled Interlock Device installation appointment at your nearest Smart Start service center, so you are on the right track to getting back on the road again.
But what do you need to take with you to your installation appointment?
Bringing the right materials with you to your Interlock Device install appointment is very important, and can save you a headache if you do not bring the right items.
This blog series will help you figure out what to take to your appointment, whether you are on the East or West Coast. In each blog series, we will break the topics down and group different regions together, as each state’s requirements are different.
To get started, we’ll go over a general guide to prep yourself for your installation day.
You should bring the following items to your appointment, wherever you are in the U.S.:
Additional Tips
Remember, you can always ask one of our customer care representatives what you need to bring, as well. Our customer care center is 24/7/365, so we will be able to answer your questions at any time, even during weekends and holidays.
Your installation appointment will usually only take up to an hour. Smart Start recommends blocking off at least two hours, since some vehicles may require a longer period to install the Device. We also understand the significance of working with your vehicle – rest assured that our service technicians will take utmost care while installing the Interlock Device.
Need more information? We have state-by-state FAQ’s on Interlock Device regulations and forms you may need in your area.
Installation Day Series
Part 1 – a general guide on what to bring for your Interlock install day
Part 2 install series by state – Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Nebraska, North Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia
Part 3 install series by state – Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Delaware, and Maryland
Part 4 install series by state – South Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana, Mississippi, Minnesota, Missouri, Arkansas, and Louisiana
Part 5 install series by state – Texas, Oklahoma, South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Alaska and Idaho
Part 6 install series by state – Hawaii, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, California, Oregon, Washington
Need to make an Interlock Device installation appointment? Call Smart Start today at 800-831-3299, or fill out our quick and 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!
"* (required)" indicates required fields
Why Won’t the Unlock Code Work for My Interlock Device?
If you are using an Interlock Device, one of the messages on its screen that you may see is either VIOLATION LCK or SVCLCK. This indicates that the Device is currently in lockout mode.
There’s no need to worry if your Interlock Device goes into lockout mode. As an alternative to a towing fee, Smart Start provides a unlock code so you can drive to your service center to have your Device reset. Once the unlock code is used, you will usually have up to six hours to get to your service center.
Going into lockout mode could be for a couple reasons. Either you did not take your vehicle in to the service center for your scheduled appointment, or the Device has recorded a violation. All states are different, so it may be a good idea to ask your State Authority regarding what could cause a lockout.
So what happens if a unlock code is not working?
If your unlock code is not responding correctly, please call us right away so we can help you at 800-831-3299. It’s important to note that you should NOT press the unlock code number when you call, as we want to reach you through one of our team members. When you call, press 1 for Existing Customer, 3 for Account Related Support, and then 3 for Product Questions/Device Troubleshooting.
We hope this post helps you understand your Interlock Device as you successfully go through your program. Don’t forget, you can always reach out to our 24/7/365 customer care center at 800-831-3299 with any questions about your Interlock. Smart Start’s customer care representatives are available to assist you whenever you need their help, even during weekends and holidays. When you install your Interlock Device, you can also ask any one of our friendly service technicians about an Interlock Device’s lockout mode.
Need to install an Interlock Device? Call Smart Start at 800-831-3299 or fill out our quick and 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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Can Parents Pay for Their Child’s Interlock Device?
Parents, if your child is convicted of a DWI or DUI, an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) could be mandatory depending on your state and the case’s circumstances.
Do not worry, though. Interlock Devices are the safest and best tool to use when preventing drunken driving. In addition, most Devices’ breath tests take seconds, leaving little room for disrupting someone’s everyday routine.
So, can Smart Start provide an option for parents to pay for their child’s Device?
The short answer is, absolutely.
Smart Start strives for utmost convenience at what could be a stressful time. You can create an installation appointment for your child at your nearest service center and be present at the appointment for them, too. When you call our customer care center, you’ll be able to pay your child’s IID fees with no hassle. We are flexible, and offer recurring payment options.
Interlock Devices for a Loved One – A Choice for Parents to Invest in Safe Driving
On a voluntary basis, parents invest in a Smart Start Interlock Device regardless if their child was convicted of a DUI or not. For parents, an IID could mean extra protection every time their child drives.
Interlock Devices are also worthwhile if you and your loved ones are sharing a family car. Another option is if a child starts college for maximum security when they are behind the wheel.
Separating Drinking From Driving
What most people don’t know is that IID’s are the only physical barrier in preventing drunk driving.
If someone tests on their Interlock Device, and their breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) reads above or at the state’s fail limit, the vehicle will not turn on. An Interlock Device with fuel cell technology, like Smart Start’s, is the most accurate tool in alcohol monitoring while driving.
Smart Start offers Interlock Devices for court or state-ordered cases, or on a voluntary basis. Call today to schedule an Interlock Device appointment at 800-831-3299, or fill out our quick and easy 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 Bypass my Interlock Device?
Trying to bypass your court or state-ordered Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is just not a good idea.
There may be videos or articles online listing how you can bypass an IID, but none can talk their way around the fact that IID’s are the most accurate vehicle alcohol monitoring tool worldwide.
Bypassing Interlock Devices
If you try to bypass your Interlock Device, you are hurting yourself because these actions will bring heavier penalties from your court or state. Complying with your program is the best way to not only complete it, but change your life by maintaining your sobriety on the road.
Your State Authority will know if you had a friend do the initial breath test for you or if you used items such as blow-dryers to take your test. Why? Because most Interlock Devices, including Smart Start’s, have advanced fuel cell technology. This makes our IID’s very accurate in reading your breath alcohol sample, and can tell whether it is compressed air or your actual breath sample passing through its sensor.
A common idea is to just have a friend blow into the IID for the initial test. If you think it’s OK for a friend to blow into your Interlock Device for your program, we highly recommend you think again! What are you going to do when it prompts for a random rolling retest while you are driving? These second and subsequent tests maintain your sobriety while physically on the road.
Complete Your IID Program the Right Way
Smart Start supports clients completing their program so they can continue with their lives. Having an Interlock Device allows you to get to work or anywhere else with your vehicle instead of not being able to drive at all.
Do you need an Interlock Device? Call Smart Start today to schedule an installation appointment at 800-831-3299 or fill out our quick and simple online form for a quote.
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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