What a Smart Start ignition interlock does

A Smart Start ignition interlock is a device installed in your vehicle's dashboard that measures your breath alcohol content before the engine will start. If the device detects alcohol above a set threshold — typically 0.02% blood alcohol content — the engine will not turn over. The device is wired into your vehicle's ignition system and fuel pump, making it impossible to bypass without professional removal.

Smart Start is one of several companies that manufactures and services interlock devices under court order or DMV requirement. When a court mandates an interlock as a condition of driving after a DUI or DWI conviction, the offender must install an approved device, pay installation and monthly monitoring fees, and submit to regular breath tests. The device records every test result and sends that data to Smart Start's monitoring center, which reports to the court or DMV.

The device does not prevent you from driving — it only prevents the engine from starting if alcohol is detected. Once the engine is running, the device will prompt you to take rolling retests at random intervals during your drive to may support you have not consumed alcohol while behind the wheel.

Key Takeaways

  • Smart Start devices measure breath alcohol before engine start and during driving, with results reported to the court or DMV.
  • Installation typically costs between $100 and $300, with monthly monitoring fees ranging by state and contract length.
  • You must pass an initial breath test and maintain the device in working order; missed tests or tampering can result in license suspension.
  • The device remains installed for the duration set by your court order, which varies by conviction severity and state law.
  • Smart Start offers customer service to help with device malfunctions, scheduling maintenance, and understanding test results.

Installation and initial setup

After a court orders an interlock requirement, you contact Smart Start to schedule installation at one of their service centers. You will need to bring a valid driver's license and proof of vehicle registration. The technician will install the device into your vehicle's dashboard and explain how to use it, including how to provide a proper breath sample and what to do if the device malfunctions.

During installation, you will take your first breath test to establish a baseline. The device is calibrated to your vehicle's ignition system and fuel pump. Smart Start will provide you with a user manual and a list of maintenance appointments you must keep. The entire installation process usually takes one to two hours.

You will receive a bill for installation fees and your first month of monitoring. Costs vary by state and by whether you choose a standard or premium service plan. Some courts or DMVs have approved vendors in your area, and you may be required to use one of them.

How breath testing works with the device

To start your vehicle, you blow into the Smart Start device's mouthpiece for about five to six seconds. The device analyzes your breath sample and displays a result within seconds. If your blood alcohol content is below the set threshold, the engine will start normally. If it is at or above the threshold, the engine will not start, and the device will lock for a set period — usually five to fifteen minutes — before allowing another test.

Once the engine is running, the device will prompt you to take a rolling retest at random intervals. You will see a light and hear a tone, and you have a set amount of time — usually three to five minutes — to provide another breath sample. If you do not take the test in time, or if the test shows alcohol, the device will log a violation and may trigger your vehicle's lights and horn until you turn off the engine.

The device stores all test results with timestamps. Smart Start's monitoring center receives this data and reports it to the court or DMV. A pattern of failed tests, missed tests, or attempts to tamper with the device can result in license suspension or other penalties.

Fees, maintenance, and how long you keep the device

Smart Start charges an installation fee, a monthly monitoring fee, and a removal fee when your requirement ends. Installation typically ranges from $100 to $300. Monthly monitoring fees vary by state and service plan, generally between $60 and $100 per month. Removal fees are usually $50 to $100. Some states cap these fees by law; others do not.

You are responsible for keeping the device in working order. Smart Start schedules maintenance appointments every 30 days, during which a technician will read your test data, recalibrate the device, and check for any mechanical issues. You must attend these appointments; missing one can be reported to the court as a violation.

The length of time you must keep the device installed depends on your court order. Typical requirements range from six months to three years, depending on the severity of your conviction, whether it was a first or repeat offense, and your state's laws. Some courts allow early removal if you maintain a clean record of passing tests and attending all maintenance appointments.

What happens if the device detects a violation

A violation is recorded when you fail a breath test, miss a scheduled test, or attempt to tamper with or bypass the device. Smart Start reports all violations to the monitoring authority — usually the court or DMV — within a set timeframe. The consequences depend on your specific court order and state law.

Common penalties for violations include extension of your interlock requirement, license suspension, fines, or additional court appearances. A single failed test may not trigger when ready action, but a pattern of failures or missed tests usually does. Tampering with the device — such as attempting to disconnect it, using a bypass tube, or having someone else blow into it — is treated as a serious violation and can result in criminal charges in addition to license suspension.

If your device malfunctions and you cannot start your vehicle, contact Smart Start when ready. The company can provide documentation of the malfunction to show to the court or DMV, which may protect you from being penalized for a missed test caused by equipment failure rather than non-compliance.

Removing the device and ending your requirement

When your court-ordered interlock period ends, you must schedule a removal appointment with Smart Start. The technician will uninstall the device, restore your vehicle's ignition system to normal operation, and provide you with a final report of your test history. You will be charged a removal fee at this time.

Some courts allow early removal if you meet certain conditions — such as maintaining a clean test record for a specified period, completing a DUI education program, or paying all fees on time. You must request early removal through the court or DMV, not through Smart Start. The monitoring authority will notify Smart Start when your requirement officially ends.

After removal, you have no further obligations to Smart Start unless you have unpaid fees. Your test history remains on file with the court or DMV and may be reviewed if you are charged with another driving offense.

Troubleshooting common device issues

If your Smart Start device will not start your vehicle, first check that you are providing a proper breath sample — blow steadily for the full five to six seconds without pausing. If the device still will not accept your sample, it may need recalibration. Contact Smart Start's customer service line to report the issue and schedule an emergency service appointment if needed.

If you receive a violation notice for a missed rolling retest, review the circumstances. If you were driving in an area with poor cell signal, or if the device malfunctioned, document this and contact Smart Start with details. The company can review the data and may be able to explain the violation to the monitoring authority.

If you believe a test result was inaccurate — for example, if you had not consumed alcohol but the device showed a positive result — ask Smart Start to perform a calibration check. Devices can occasionally register false positives due to residual mouth alcohol from mouthwash or certain foods. Keep records of what you consumed before any failed test, as this information may help explain the result.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive someone else's car while my interlock requirement is active?

No. Your interlock requirement is tied to you as a driver, not to a specific vehicle. You can only drive a vehicle with an installed Smart Start device. If you need to drive a different vehicle, that vehicle must also have an interlock device installed. Some people install devices in multiple vehicles; others arrange to drive only the vehicle with the device.

What if I have a medical condition that affects my breath sample?

Certain medical conditions — such as acid reflux, diabetes, or respiratory infections — can affect breath test results. If you believe a medical condition is causing false positives, contact Smart Start and request a meeting with a supervisor. Bring medical documentation. You may be able to request a different testing method or have violations reviewed in light of your condition. Ultimately, the court or DMV makes the final information.

Do I have to pay for the device if I am found not guilty?

No. If your case is dismissed or you are acquitted, the interlock requirement is lifted and you do not owe Smart Start any fees beyond what you have already paid. Contact the court to request an order lifting the requirement, then provide that order to Smart Start to schedule removal at no additional charge.

Can I remove the device myself to save money?

You should not attempt to remove the device yourself. Unauthorized removal is a violation of your court order and can result in criminal charges. Additionally, improper removal can damage your vehicle's electrical system. Always use Smart Start's official removal service.

How do I know if Smart Start is reporting my data correctly to the court?

You can request a copy of your test history and violation report from Smart Start at any time. Compare this report to what the court or DMV has on file. If you believe there is an error, contact Smart Start's customer service and request a correction. You can also ask the court to review the data directly with Smart Start's monitoring center.