What an ignition interlock requirement means for your reinstatement
An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer installed in your car's dashboard that prevents the engine from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath. If your license was suspended or revoked because of a DUI or DWI conviction, your state may require you to install one before you can drive again. The device itself is not optional — it is a condition of reinstatement set by your state's DMV or licensing authority.
You will need to install the interlock before you submit your reinstatement request, not after. Most states will not even process your reinstatement paperwork without proof that the device is already in your vehicle. This means your first step is finding an approved installer in your area, getting the device installed, and collecting the paperwork that proves it.
The length of time you must keep the interlock in your car varies by state and by the severity of your offense. Some states require it for six months; others require one year or longer. During this period, you will pay a monthly monitoring fee to the service company, and you must pass all breath tests the device records.
Key Takeaways
- You must install an approved ignition interlock device before submitting your license reinstatement request — your state will not process the paperwork without proof of installation.
- The device costs money to install and a monthly fee to monitor, and you must keep it in your vehicle for the length of time your state requires, which typically ranges from six months to two years.
- You can only use an installer on your state's approved vendor list, which you can find through your DMV website or by calling your local DMV office.
- Every failed breath test or missed appointment is recorded and reported to your state, and violations can delay or deny your reinstatement.
- Once you have completed the required interlock period without violations, you will submit proof of completion along with your reinstatement request.
Finding an approved interlock installer in your state
Your state maintains a list of companies licensed to install ignition interlock devices. You cannot use any installer you choose — it must be one on your state's approved list. You can find this list on your state DMV website, usually under a section called "Ignition Interlock" or "DUI Requirements." If you cannot find it online, call your local DMV office and ask for the approved vendor list for your county or region.
Once you have the list, contact installers near you and ask about their availability and cost. Installation typically takes 30 minutes to an hour. You will need to bring your vehicle and a valid ID. Some companies offer mobile installation — they come to your home or workplace — which may cost more but saves you a trip.
When you schedule the installation, ask the installer what paperwork they will give you after the device is installed. You will need a certificate or letter stating the installation date and the device serial number. Keep this document — you will need it when you file for reinstatement.
What happens during the interlock monitoring period
Once the device is installed, you will use it every time you drive. Before you start the car, you blow into the mouthpiece. If the device detects no alcohol, the engine starts normally. If it detects alcohol, the engine will not start, and the device records the failed test.
The device also requires rolling retests while you are driving — usually a few minutes after you start the car, and then randomly during your trip. You will hear a beep or see a light telling you to blow into the device. You have a set amount of time (usually a few minutes) to pull over safely and provide a breath sample. If you miss a retest or fail one, the device logs it.
Every month, the monitoring company downloads data from your device. They review your breath tests, retests, and any missed appointments. This report goes to your state's DMV or licensing authority. If you have violations — failed tests, missed retests, or missed service appointments — your reinstatement can be delayed or denied, even if you have otherwise completed the required time period.
You are responsible for keeping your service appointments. The monitoring company will send you reminders, but missing an appointment is a violation. You must also pay the monthly monitoring fee on time. If you fall behind on payments, the company may report you to the DMV.
How long you must keep the device installed
The length of the interlock requirement depends on your state and your offense. Most states require the device for a minimum of six months to one year for a first DUI offense. A second or subsequent offense usually means a longer period — often one to three years. Some states have different requirements based on your blood alcohol content (BAC) at the time of arrest.
You cannot remove the device early, even if you have had no violations. The device must stay in your vehicle for the full period your state requires. If you remove it before that time, or if you tamper with it, you will face additional penalties and your reinstatement will be denied.
Check your reinstatement paperwork or call your DMV to confirm the exact length of time required in your case. This information should have been given to you when your license was suspended or revoked, but if you do not have it, the DMV can tell you based on your case number and offense date.
Gathering proof of completion for your reinstatement request
Once you have completed the required interlock period without violations, you will need proof from the monitoring company. Contact the company and request a certificate of completion or final monitoring report. This document shows the dates you had the device installed and removed, and confirms that you met all the requirements during the monitoring period.
The company will mail or email this certificate to you. Some companies charge a small fee for this document; others provide it at no cost. Ask when you call so you are not surprised by a charge. Keep the original certificate — you will need it to submit with your reinstatement request.
You will also need the original installation certificate from when the device was first installed. Gather both documents before you contact the DMV about reinstatement. Having them ready will speed up your reinstatement process.
Submitting your reinstatement request with interlock proof
Once you have your certificate of completion, you can submit your license reinstatement request to your state DMV. The exact process varies by state — some allow online submission, others require you to visit an office in person or mail documents. Check your state DMV website for the reinstatement process specific to your state.
When you submit your request, include the certificate of completion from the interlock monitoring company. Some states also ask for the original installation certificate. Follow the DMV's instructions exactly about what documents to include and how to submit them. Missing or incomplete paperwork will delay your reinstatement.
After you submit, the DMV will review your file. They will verify that you completed the interlock period, that you had no violations, and that all other reinstatement requirements are met. This review typically takes two to four weeks. You may be asked to pay a reinstatement fee at this time.
What violations mean for your reinstatement timeline
If you have violations during the interlock monitoring period — failed breath tests, missed retests, or missed service appointments — your reinstatement will be delayed. Some states require you to extend the interlock period by a set amount of time (often 30 to 90 days) before you can reinstate. Others may deny your reinstatement request and require you to reapply later.
The specific consequence depends on your state and the number and type of violations. A single failed test may result in a warning; multiple failures or missed appointments will have more serious consequences. The monitoring company reports all violations to the DMV, so the DMV will know about them when you explore for reinstatement.
This is why it is important to take the interlock requirement seriously. Every violation extends the time before you can drive legally again. If you are struggling to pass the breath tests, talk to your monitoring company about your situation — they cannot remove the device, but they can document your efforts and may be able to help you understand what is happening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove the interlock device myself if I have completed the required time?
No. Only an approved installer can remove the device. You must contact the monitoring company and schedule a removal appointment. When the installer removes it, they will give you a removal certificate showing the date. This certificate is part of your completion proof for reinstatement.
What if I miss a service appointment for the interlock device?
A missed appointment is recorded as a violation and reported to the DMV. Depending on your state, this may extend your interlock period or delay your reinstatement. The monitoring company sends reminders, but you are responsible for keeping the appointment. If you cannot make a scheduled appointment, call the company when ready to reschedule.
Do I have to pay for the interlock device and monitoring?
Yes. Installation typically costs $100 to $300, and monthly monitoring fees range from $50 to $100 or more, depending on the company and your state. These are your responsibility. Some states have programs that reduce costs for low-income drivers, but you will need to contact your DMV or a local legal aid organization to learn about those options.
What happens if I fail a breath test while the interlock is in my car?
The engine will not start. The device records the failed test and reports it to the monitoring company. One failed test is usually treated as a violation. Multiple failures can result in your interlock period being extended or your reinstatement being denied. If you are having trouble passing tests, contact the monitoring company or your DMV to discuss your situation.
Can I drive someone else's car without an interlock device?
No. Your reinstatement conditions usually require that you only drive vehicles with an approved interlock device installed. Driving a car without one can result in additional criminal charges and will definitely prevent your reinstatement. Check your reinstatement paperwork or ask your DMV about the exact restrictions in your case.