Ready to remove your Ignition Interlock?To help you stay in compliance of your program, we will need formal approval to remove our Ignition Interlock. However, we can remove your device at your request at any time.
See below a list of states to determine the proper removal steps: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida and Georgia.
Last Updated: January 2018
What’s the Process to Remove My Ignition Interlock?
Alabama
For court Ignition Interlock orders (if you need an Ignition Interlock as a bond, pre-trial and/or probation requirement):
Smart Start will need permission to remove our Ignition Interlock Device first. You may submit your original court orders with the terms of the Ignition Interlock or a copy of Minutes. As an alternative, you can contact your monitoring authority to receive authorization for removal.
For administrative Ignition Interlock orders (the Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS), as a condition of reinstatement):
You will need a Clearance of Suspension Notice and/or your driver’s license without the Ignition Interlock restrictions.
Any documents you will provide to start the removal process can be submitted to us at removals@smartstartinc.com. You can also fax them to us at 972-929-6638. Remember to include your full name and date of birth on all your paperwork.
Please allow one business day for processing. A Customer Care Specialist will notify you of your eligibility date for removal or the next steps.
Alaska
We will remove our Ignition Interlock at your request. However, it is your responsibility to verify your eligibility date with the Alaska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). If you remove your device early, your driving privileges may be suspended or canceled, and any fees paid will be non-refundable. Please contact your Smart Start service center to schedule a removal appointment.
Arizona
If your Ignition Interlock was required by theMotor Vehicles Division (MVD):
Have you received your removal eligibility date from theArizona MVD? Or a 6-Month Deferment letter for early removal?
If yes, on the date you are eligible to remove your device, please visit an MVD office or 3rd party provider so you can secure a TEMPORARY paper driver’s license without the Interlock Required restriction on it. Once obtained, you can take your TEMPORARY paper license to your local Smart Start Service Center for device removal.
If you receive the Deferment letter from the MVD, that is all you need to bring to the service center for us to remove the device.We will remove your device at your request, however, if you remove it early.
If no, please contact the MVD at 602-255-0072 to obtain your removal eligibility date. Once obtained, please follow the instructions listed above.
Probation
You may submit your authorization court documents to Removals@smartstartinc.com.Make sure to include your full name, date of birth and driver’s license number.
Arkansas
We will remove our Ignition Interlock at your request. However, it is your responsibility to verify your eligibility date with the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration at 501-682-1631. You may visit their website for a list of the Driver Control offices and their phone numbers by county.
If you remove your device early, your driving privileges may be suspended or canceled, and any fees paid will be non-refundable.
You can email Smart Start at ARconfirmation@smartstartinc.com to request a copy of your Ignition Interlock Requirement Form. Include your first and last name, driver’s license or ID number and date of birth and the reason for your email (Arkansas Ignition Interlock Requirement Form Request). Please allow 2 hours for processing during our business hours, which are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time.
Once you receive your Ignition Interlock Requirement Form, you will need to take it to a Driver Control office to start the removal process.
California
If your Ignition Interlock was required because of:
Probation Requirement
You may submit your original court documents or Minutes with length of Terms of Interlock to Removals@smartstartinc.com.Make sure to include your full name, date of birth and driver’s license number.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
You may submit a request for verification to DMV_Verify@smartstartinc.com. Make sure to include your full name, date of birth and driver’s license number.
You can also contact our Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299.
Please allow one business day for processing. A Customer Care Specialist will notify you of the removal eligibility date or steps to follow.
Colorado
Are you on a 9-Month Program?
If YES
What is your reinstatement date? If you don’t know, you can call the DMV at 303-205-5613.
Please contact Smart Start at 303-279-3318to start the removal process and to have your 4-Month Report processed and sent to the DMV for removal approval. Colorado DMV will issue you an unrestricted license after completion of the interlock program. Please allow 5 business days for processing.
In both cases, you will need to present your unrestricted license at the time of removal. Contact your local Smart Start service center to schedule your removal appointment.
If NO
You can obtain your restriction end date from the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) at 303-205-5613. Or you can obtain your unrestricted license to become eligible to have your Ignition Interlock removed. When you get your restriction end date, please contact your Smart Start service center to schedule the removal of your device.
Is your vehicle totaled, inoperable, or repossessed?
Please contact us at 303-279-3318 and our team will assist you on next steps.
Connecticut
You will need to obtain a P-249 form from the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) at 860-263-5720 or by email at dmv.suspension@ct.gov.The DMV will usually mail you the P-249 form 14 days in advance of your Ignition Interlock removal.Bring this form to your removal appointment at your Smart Start service center.
Once you have your P-249 form, forward it to us atRemovals@smartstartinc.com. You can also fax the form to 972-929-6638. Include your full name, date of birth and driver’s license number. Please allow one business day for processing. A Customer Care Specialist will notify you of the removal eligibility date or steps to follow.
If your vehicle is inoperable, totaled or repossessed, you may file an Incident Reportto coordinate the removal. Please be sure to include the P-249 form, if it is available.
Delaware
We recommend you verify your device removal eligibility date with the Delaware Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) at 302-744-2509. For revoked licenses, call 302-744-2507.
You or your monitoring authority can email the removal authorization to Removals@smartstartinc.com or fax it to 972-929-6638. Make sure to include your full name, date of birth and driver’s license number. Please allow 1 business day for processing. A Customer Care Specialist will notify you of the removal eligibility date or steps to follow.
Florida
If your Ignition Interlock was required through:
The Florida Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
You may email us at Removals@smartstartinc.com. Include your full name, date of birth and your driver’s license number. Allow two business days for processing. A Customer Care Specialist will notify you of your removal eligibility date or next steps.
Pre-Trial Diversion Requirement
Smart Start will remove our device at your request. However, if you remove your device early, your Diversion requirements or driving privileges may be suspended or canceled. In addition, any fees paid will be non-refundable. We recommend you contact your Pre-Trial counselor to obtain removal authorization.
Georgia
You will need a “final download” of your Ignition Interlock in Georgia. Your Smart Start service technician will be able to assist!
When you take your device to your last service appointment, the technician will complete the monitoring report form provided by the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). Our technician will fill out the information, sign it in blue ink and stamp it.You can then take the signed form to the DDS office for your license reinstatement.
If DDS approves the form, you will receive a DDS Authorization to Remove Form signed by the DDS.Once obtained, please contact your local Smart Start service center to schedule a removal appointment. Make sure to bring the form signed by DDS with you to the appointment.
Ignition Interlock Removal Series
Part 1: A general Ignition Interlock removal guide.
Part 2: The proper removal process for your Interlock program broken down by state: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida and Georgia
Part 3: Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine and Maryland
Part 4: Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey
Part 5:New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and South Carolina
Part 6: South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming
Need to install an Ignition Interlock? We can provide you a quote and set up an installation appointment. Call our Customer Care Center today at (800) 831-3299 or fill out our quick and simple online form.
FAQs
How do I disconnect an interlock device? ›
Once you have completed your state mandated lease and if you no longer want an ignition interlock device attached to your car, you can call you ignition interlock provider to have them schedule an appointment for its removal.
How do I remove Smart Start myself? ›You may contact your monitoring authority to obtain permission. You or your monitoring authority may submit the removal document to Removals@smartstartinc.com or fax it to 972-929-6638. Include your full name and date of birth. Allow one business day for processing.
How do you unlock ignition interlock? ›To receive a lockout or unlock code, visit the Client Portal and select Payments & Unlock Codes from the menu. If you have more than one Smart Start device, make sure you select Ignition Interlock on the Payments & Unlock Codes screen.
What happens if I unplug my interlock? ›If you do remove or disable the device, your IID provider will be notified of the removal and will notify your state legal authority that you are no longer in compliance with your ignition interlock requirement.
Can you leave your car running with interlock device? ›Don't leave your car running.
However, your ignition interlock device can prompt you for a random retest at any time, and if you're not in the car to hear the alert, you could miss the test. This missed test counts as a failed test and will be reported, so make sure to shut off your vehicle whenever you aren't driving.
POSSIBLE CAUSE. 0 Failed Stopped Test Failed a breath test before starting the vehicle engine. 1 Failed Running Test Failed a breath test (retest) after starting the vehicle engine. 2 Tach Fault An acceptable breath test was provided and the vehicle engine started, but the device did not detect a tach signal.
What happens if I don't calibrate my interlock? ›Missed calibration
The calibration takes only a few minutes. If you don't get your device calibrated, you risk a service lockout, where you may need to tow your vehicle to a service center to get it running again.
Because the devices are very sensitive, they can detect even small amounts of alcohol which may be present in substances such as food or toothpaste. Due to this it is recommended that you do not eat or drink ten minutes before taking a test and while driving.
What does start smart mean? ›Start Smart is the term used to describe the initial prescribing of antibiotics and is a part of the 'Start Smart then Focus' campaign to reduce antibiotic resistance.
Does Smart Start Ever turn off? ›Our Ignition Interlock Devices will not shut off the engine while you're driving. Smart Start goes to great lengths to ensure the safety of our drivers and our devices. That's why none of our Ignition Interlock Devices will ever turn off the car while you're driving.
Can I unplug my Smart Start device? ›
In most states, you can disconnect the head unit from the curly cord to prevent your Interlock Device from getting too cold.
How do you unlock a stuck ignition? ›Turning the wheel in the opposite direction can release the lock and enable you to take the key out of the ignition. Jiggling the key – Another easy method for removing a stuck key is to push down on the key cylinder with your left index finger while simultaneously jiggling the key with your right hand.
How long does a lockout reset take? ›Temporary Lockout
Generally speaking, the first failed test will result in a 2-15 minute lockout. After that, you will be asked to retest. If the retest is successful, you will be able to start your car and be on your way. However, if subsequent retests are failed, you will not be able to start your car.
It's nearly impossible to trick an ignition interlock device because of the way the new generation of machines works. The new machines allow for rolling retests, which means that you have to blow into the machine and retest your breath while you're driving.
Can I unplug my intoxalock and bring it inside? ›Don't disconnect your device and bring it inside*. This will register as a power interruption which could be considered tampering. It will be reported to your monitoring authority as well. If your state's interlock program is compliance-based, this could result in a longer interlock term requirement.
Can an interlock device drain your battery? ›You're getting an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle but you have a few questions first. One thing you're concerned about is whether an interlock device drains your car battery. We can assure you it does not.
Can a interlock mess up starter? ›Ignition Interlock Device Installation is Worry-Free
The IID consists of two components: the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) and the handheld device. The technician will physically wire the ECU into your vehicle's starter system. This will not damage your starter or electrical system.
- Spicy Foods. Spicy meals are constantly used as an example that will cause 'false positive' results in Interlocks. ...
- Sugary Foods. One of the most common culprits is yeast. ...
- Fruit & Fruit Drinks. ...
- Vinegar. ...
- Energy Drinks. ...
- Vanilla Extract. ...
- Mouthwash. ...
- Breath Spray.
- Press and hold the button on your device for three beeps before you shut your vehicle off.
- Release after the third beep.
- Your device is now in Sleep Mode and will remain in Sleep Mode until you press the activation button again.
Condensation from the air you breath can freeze in the mouthpiece and cause issues. Make sure you remove the mouthpiece, and replace it with a new one or dry the one you removed thoroughly before reusing.
What does recall 3 mean on 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!
What happens if I miss my calibration? ›Missed service appointments could unfortunately result in a lockout. However, in some states, if you contact your provider before-hand, there are short “grace periods” you can use to prevent a violation or penalty from occurring for missing a calibration appointment.
What is Alcolock recall code 02? ›Temporary Lockout / Startup Lockout
02 or . 025 (depending on your state), you can start the engine just like you normally would. However, if the device detects a BAC above at or above the level set by your state, the IID will prevent you from starting your car. In other words, a startup lockout.
The Interlock's data will download and the Device will also refresh. You also make your next payment. Calibration appointments usually only take about 15 minutes.
Why does interlock drain battery? ›Occasionally an interlock user will have problems with a battery that seems to drain too fast. The fault could be a defective device, but most times it's caused by an old battery or defective alternator.
Can intoxalock give false readings? ›These false positives can occur even when you have not consumed any alcohol whatsoever. A number of foods and other substances have been known to cause false results with breathalyzer testing. The same substances can also lead to false results with an ignition interlock device.
Can coffee set off a breathalyzer? ›While it might come as a surprise, the over-consumption of caffeine could trigger a false positive on a breathalyzer test.
Does vinegar affect a breathalyzer? ›Vinegar – Some types of vinegar are made from wine and contain trace amounts of alcohol. Not nearly enough to cause impairment, but possibly enough to lead to a false positive.
Can mouthwash set off interlock? ›Ignition Interlock Devices use sophisticated fuel cell technology to detect alcohol on your breath. But your favorite mouthwash could contain enough alcohol – as much as 27 percent, or 54 proof – to potentially cause a fail notification on your Ignition Interlock.
Does Smart Start use GPS? ›Viper Smart Start and Viper Smart Start with GPS Tracking. Add Viper SmartStart Pro to almost any remote start system harnessing the fastest connected car solution that lets you lock, unlock and remote start or locate your vehicle from virtually anywhere.
Is Smart Start always recording? ›
Smart Start cameras are clearly visible to drivers and do not record video. The only times the camera will activate is to automatically take a photograph of the driver every time a breath test is provided, every time a random retest sample is not provided on time, and when device circumvention is detected.
What brand is Smart Start? ›Kellogg's® Smart Start® Antioxidants cereal is a delicious combination of sweetened, toasted multi-grain flakes and crunchy oat clusters.
Why won't my car start with interlock device? ›The Ignition Interlock Device Won't Turn On
If your device won't turn on at all, the most common problem is that your car battery is low or has died completely. Check your vehicle battery to make sure that it's working. You may need to change out your battery.
Swish Your Mouth with Water Before Testing
Swishing your mouth with water will help dissolve the alcohol in your mouth from items such as breath mints, mouthwash, etc. To keep it simple, make sure to swish your mouth with water before any test to eliminate false positive readings on your Device.
Retests are always announced: Your ignition interlock device will beep loudly when a retest is required. You have up to 6 minutes of extra time to pull off to the side of the road if you do not feel comfortable taking the test while driving.
Can you charge car battery with interlock? ›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.
Can you warm up your car with intoxalock? ›Blow into your mouthpiece 3-4 times before pressing the button to turn on your ignition interlock device. This will help warm the unit up quicker. Drive your vehicle often. Driving your vehicle regularly ensures that your battery will remain charged, even in winter weather.
Why is my intoxalock draining my battery? ›Three possibilities. Something is wrong with the interlock, it wasn't installed correctly, or they botched the wiring installing the interlock so that something else is vampiring your battery.. The interlock shouldn't drain your battery overnight. Get it checked out.
How come my key won't come out of the ignition? ›A car key stuck in the ignition that won't release is usually because of a damaged/worn out car key or the ignition wafers have broken. The three common reasons for stuck car keys are as follows: Damaged Car Key – car keys can become bent, worn out & damaged causing the key to become stuck.
Why is ignition stuck? ›Common reasons for this to happen:
Wheel lock cylinder is worn: Every time you insert that key or fob into the wheel lock cylinder, there is one less turn for it to go in its lifetime. Battery is dead: On modern cars, a dead battery will result in the key remaining stuck in the ignition.
How do I reset my lockout? ›
Follow the below steps in GPO to resolve the misconfiguration. Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Account Policies >> Account Lockout Policy >> "Reset account lockout counter after" to "30" minutes.
What is a lockout code? ›The lockout code is a single-use code to unlock your vehicle once and only once. It typically unlocks your vehicle for a 6-hour period. You may start and stop your vehicle unlimited times within the unlock time period.
What does abort 15 mean on interlock device? ›In a nutshell, the ABORT error code means there is a problem with the handset. ABORT could mean that something is blocking the airflow into the IID. You might have inadvertently blown item into the mouthpiece, such as a piece of gum, or food debris.
Is there a way to bypass interlock? ›- Using compressed air instead of your own breath to blow into the interlock.
- Asking a friend to blow into the interlock to start your car.
On Your Breath: 12-24 Hours. In Your Urine: 12-24 Hours. In Your Saliva: 12-24 Hours.
Can I unplug my intoxalock? ›Don't disconnect your device and bring it inside*. This will register as a power interruption which could be considered tampering. It will be reported to your monitoring authority as well. If your state's interlock program is compliance-based, this could result in a longer interlock term requirement.
How long does a lockout last on an interlock? ›Temporary Lockout
Generally speaking, the first failed test will result in a 2-15 minute lockout. After that, you will be asked to retest. If the retest is successful, you will be able to start your car and be on your way. However, if subsequent retests are failed, you will not be able to start your car.
Recharging or Replacing Your Battery
When your car's battery dies or is disconnected, your interlock device will record the event as a potential violation, since tampering with the car's battery could occur when someone tries to bypass their interlock device.
The DMV will allow a driver to remove the interlock device from their vehicle early if they show full compliance with the device for four (4) consecutive months of no less than 120 full calendar days. Full compliance means no allegations of tampering, circumvention, or lockouts due to an excess BAC (≥0.025).
Can I warm up my car with Intoxalock? ›Blow into your mouthpiece 3-4 times before pressing the button to turn on your ignition interlock device. This will help warm the unit up quicker. Drive your vehicle often. Driving your vehicle regularly ensures that your battery will remain charged, even in winter weather.
How long after drinking can I use interlock? ›
So the answer to the question, How long after you stop drinking can you pass an ignition interlock device test? is anywhere from 12 to 24 hours after your last drink. So really, you shouldn't plan to drive unless it's been at least 12 hours since your last drink.
Why is my interlock draining my battery? ›Occasionally an interlock user will have problems with a battery that seems to drain too fast. The fault could be a defective device, but most times it's caused by an old battery or defective alternator.
How many interlock violations can you have in Colorado? ›How Many Times You Can Fail the Interlock Before Consequences. You can fail the interlock three times in 12 months before you face serious consequences.
Can I get my interlock removed early Tennessee? ›If you wish to remove your Ignition Interlock Device before you are eligible for license reinstatement, email TNRemoval@smartstartinc.com to request an early removal form. You will be required by the TN Department of Safety to surrender your license and obtain a State ID.
How long do you have to have an interlock in Colorado? ›1st Per Se or DUI conviction, May be eligible to reinstate early after serving one month of revocation - 2 year interlock requirement with BAC above . 15.