Ignition Interlock Calibration FAQs
Here’s everything you should know about your calibration appointment before you go!
Smart Start Service Calibrations
Getting an Ignition Interlock can be confusing, but Smart Start is here to help. Calibration is a crucial process for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of your Smart Start device. It involves adjusting and fine-tuning the device to accurately measure your breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) levels. You are required to visit a Smart Start service center to calibrate your device regularly. Continue reading to learn more about what to expect at your calibration and your calibration schedule.
What to Expect at Your Smart Start Calibration
Calibrating the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is a routine and simple process. You can find your next service date on your device, the receipt from your last appointment, or on the Client Portal. At your appointment, let the technician know you’re there for an Ignition Interlock calibration and they will take it from there! They’ll have you back on the road in no time.
As of 2024, you may be required to pay $25+ for your calibration service appointment along with your monthly lease. This fee will be paid directly to the service center during the appointment—not Smart Start. It aligns with the standard practices of our industry and is intended to cover the labor and operational costs required to maintain and service your device.
Did you know you may not have to calibrate your IID every month? Find your state below to learn about your device calibration schedule.
Calibration Schedule
The below calibration schedule refers to the state of your conviction, which may differ from the state of your residence. Please check below to verify how often you must bring your vehicle in for service.
While your service schedule may vary, you will still need to pay your lease every month. If you have been paying your lease at a shop location, you should make plans to pay online instead. It’s the quickest and easiest way to stay up-to-date, not to mention avoid any processing fees.
Remember, you MUST come into the shop on your service date. After that date, you may be charged an additional service fee.
Some jurisdictions have grace periods in place. If you have specific questions about your service requirements, contact your local jurisdiction or court for more information.
Your calibration is every 30 days if your state is:
- Alabama
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Georgia
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Massachusetts
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Nebraska
- Rhode Island
- Tennessee
- Virginia
Your calibration is every 60 days if your state is:
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Illinois
- Iowa
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Montana
- New Jersey
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- South Carolina
- Utah
- Vermont
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
Your calibration is every 90 days if your state is:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Nevada
If your state of conviction is one of the following, you’ll need to return within 30 days after your installation. After, your schedule is returning every 60 days for service:
- Florida
- Kentucky
- Maine
- New Mexico
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- Wyoming
States with unique service intervals
Some jurisdictions have grace periods in place. Contact your local jurisdiction or court for more information.
If your state of conviction is New Hampshire, you’ll need to return within 180 days after your installation.
If your state of conviction is Hawaii, you’ll need to service your device every 30 days. If you chose to install a modem, you’ll need to return every 60 days for service.
If your state of conviction is Texas, your service interval is determined by your county or court. Please contact them for more information.
If your state of conviction is Idaho, you’ll need to return within 60 days after your installation. After, your schedule is returning every 120 days for service.
General Calibration Questions
What is a calibration?
Calibration is a crucial process for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of your Smart Start device. It involves adjusting and fine-tuning the device to accurately measure your breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) levels.
Why is calibration necessary?
Calibration is necessary to maintain the accuracy of your Smart Start device over time. Regular calibration ensures that the device continues to provide precise BrAC readings. Each state also requires this.
How often does calibration need to be done?
The frequency of calibration depends on various factors, including local regulations and Smart Start’s recommendations. Smart Start will notify you when your device is due for calibration. You can also find your next service date on your device, your last service center receipt, or on the Client Portal.
How long does calibration take?
Calibration typically takes a short amount of time and can often be completed within a single visit to a Smart Start service center. However, the exact duration may vary depending on factors such as the type of device and any additional services needed.
Do calibration services come with a fee?
The calibration fee will vary depending on your service center’s location. The calibration fee can be as low as $25.
Why is there a calibration fee?
The calibration fee is an industry standard fee and is not intended to be a financial burden. It will cover the labor and operational costs for the service center, which helps maintain the accuracy of your device.
There could be financial assistance available in your state. Contact your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or court-appointed official to explore your options.
What should I bring to the calibration appointment?
When attending a calibration appointment, be sure to bring your vehicle, any necessary documentation (such as your driver’s license and vehicle registration), and your Smart Start lease agreement or documentation provided by your monitoring authority.
What happens if I miss a calibration appointment?
Missing a calibration appointment can result in consequences such as device lockout, violations reported to monitoring authorities, or a missed appointment fee. It’s essential to adhere to the scheduled calibration intervals to maintain compliance with program requirements and ensure the continued operation of your Smart Start device.
How often does calibration need to be done?
The frequency of calibration depends on various factors, including local regulations and Smart Start’s recommendations. Generally, calibration is required every couple of months to ensure accuracy. Smart Start will notify you when your device is due for calibration. You can also find your next service date on your device, your last service center receipt, or on the Client Portal.
Why are my Interlock service dates changing?
Your state allows for a longer period between IID service dates, making your Interlock program more convenient and cost-effective for you.
When will these changes go into effect?
These changes are already in effect, ensuring an immediate improvement to your Interlock program.
How do I sign up for Client Portal and auto-pay?
If you don’t have a Client Portal account set up, you can sign up here. From the Client Portal, you can then sign up for auto-pay.
