Kentucky Ignition Interlock Laws

For first-time offenders and repeat DUI offenders, Kentucky courts may require you to install and maintain an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on your vehicle if:

  • Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level was .08 or higher
  • You operated a vehicle while impaired as a result of alcohol or other drugs
  • Your BAC level was less than .08 (per other supporting evidence that indicates impairment)
  • Your BAC level was .04 or higher while operating a commercial vehicle
  • Your DUI included aggravating circumstances

Repeat offenders will be required to forfeit their license plates to the courts within the period that the license is suspended. You’re required to pay for all costs associated with the IID, from installation, monthly lease payments, and service fees to removal. You may also be required to complete an alcohol treatment program.

How to Get Your License Quickly in Kentucky

  1. Serve your jail time, wait out your suspension period, and pay all applicable fines.
  2. Complete an alcohol treatment program and provide proof of completion to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (if applicable).
  3. Visit the driver licensing office or Circuit Court Clerk’s office and submit the reinstatement fee.
  4. Schedule an appointment to have your ignition interlock installed with an approved Smart Start interlock service provider by calling 800.831.3299.
  5. Complete any pending court regulations.

DISCLAIMER: These steps may not be a complete representation of what you must do to regain your license. As DUI case details vary by each individual, please do not see this step-by-step guide as an official process to regaining your license, but rather as a starting point only.

How Much Does a DUI Cost in Kentucky?

DUI OffenseJail TimeFee
*IID fees not included
Suspended License Period
First2 days to 30 days$200 to $50030 days to 120 days
Second7 days to 6 months$350 to $50012 months to 18 months
Third30 days to 12 months$500 to $1,00024 months to 36 months
Fourth120 days (minimum)Court’s discretion60 months

*Additional fees, jail time, and suspension periods may apply.

For additional information and resources to help you regain your license in Kentucky, refer to these links: