Ignition Interlock Devices in Washington

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Finding an Ignition Interlock Device near you can be fast, simple, and affordable. Contact Smart Start’s dedicated state Program Advisors for a free customized quote. 

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Smart Start Ignition Interlock: We’re Here for the Evergreen State 

Get back on the road and back in control with Smart Start. If you’re required to install an Ignition Interlock Device (also known as a car breathalyzer) on your vehicle, we’re here to help you with support from a caring and compassionate team of Program Advisors. 

Smart Start offers IIDs in Washington state at affordable rates, with Interlock Device installation available at dozens of service locations throughout the state. 

Convenient Locations in Washington 

Wherever you live in Washington, it’s simple to find a Smart Start Ignition Interlock Device near you:  

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How do you get your license back in Washington after a DUI? 

Some drivers in Washington state may be eligible to apply for an Ignition Interlock Driver License (IIL), according to the Washington State Department of Licensing

The following is general information, not legal advice, about the conditions you might have to complete before applying for a reinstated license.

Phase 1: Get Started

Consult Your Legal Counsel

License Hearing

Phase 2: Ignition Interlock Device

Schedule Installation

Obtain SR-22 Certificate

Phase 3: Judicial Requirements

Assessment and Education

Pay Fees and Complete Forms

Phase 4: Monitoring and Calibration

Service Appointments

Phase 5: Device Removal

Removal or Early Removal

Information as of 3/1/25.

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Disclaimer

Please note that the information in the following sections is for general informational purposes only. The materials contained herein are not intended to and should not be relied upon or construed as a legal opinion or legal advice or to address all circumstances that might arise. Information may be dated and may not reflect the most current developments. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter. Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Smart Start expressly disclaims all liability regarding actions taken or not taken based on any or all content.

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Understanding Washington DUI Requirements

Basic DUI Requirements

We know that navigating a DUI can be overwhelming. Understanding the requirements and process after an alcohol related driving offense in Washington is an important step to getting back on the road. We’ve put together some general information to help you get started. 

According to the Washington State Department of Licensing, a DUI is determined as the below: 

The results of a breath or blood test show the amount of alcohol in the driver’s blood to be: 

  • .08 or higher for adults (21 and over) 
  • .02 or higher for minors (under 21) or 
  • He or she is found to be driving a vehicle under the influence or affected by alcohol, any drug, or a combination of alcohol and drugs, regardless of the concentration of alcohol in their breath or blood. 

License Reinstatement

Washington state imposes two separate driver’s license suspensions, as described by the Washington State Department of Licensing: one after you are arrested for DUI, and one after you are convicted of DUI. 

  • After you’re arrested, your license will be suspended beginning 30 days after your arrest date. The suspension period can be anywhere from 90 days to two years. According to the Washington State Department of Licensing, you can request a hearing to contest this suspension. 
  • After you’re convicted, your license may be suspended beginning 45 days after the state receives notice of your conviction from the court. The suspension period may be anywhere from 90 days to four years. If your license has already been suspended following your arrest, the Washington State Department of Licensing provides that you may get credit on your new suspension based on how long you’ve had your current one. 

To determine how to get your full license restored after a DUI, check the terms listed in the suspension letter you received from the Washington State Department of Licensing. The court will specify which terms you have to fulfill, potentially including alcohol assessment/treatment and payment of fees. 

How much does an Ignition Interlock Device cost in Washington?

Getting a DUI can be tough financially, so we offer affordable Ignition Interlock Devices to fit your budget and your vehicle.

  • Checkmark Program Advisors offer customized quotes in minutes
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Be sure to check Washington state’s financial assistance program, which can help you afford an Ignition Interlock Device in WA. For more information, see our resources on thecost of IIDs in Washington state. 

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How much does an Ignition Interlock Device cost in Washington?

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Washington Forms

As part of your Ignition Interlock requirement, you may be required to complete specific forms. Find the forms you need right here! 

Washington State Compliance Form: 4-Month/180-Day Review Form

Used to document and review compliance with the Ignition Interlock Program requirements at the 4-month and 180-day review marks. 

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Indigent Program Application Form

For individuals seeking financial assistance to cover costs associated with the Ignition Interlock Device due to financial hardship. 

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Installation Notification Form

To notify the appropriate authorities or agency of the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device in a vehicle. 

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Non-Owned Vehicle Installation Approval Form

For obtaining permission to install an Ignition Interlock Device in a vehicle that is not owned by the person required to use the IID. 

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Smart Start New Installation Form

For obtaining permission to install an Ignition Interlock Device in a vehicle that is not owned by the person required to use the IID. 

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Vehicle Service Affidavit Form

To attest to any service or maintenance performed on a vehicle equipped with an Ignition Interlock Device, ensuring compliance with regulations. 

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Washington FAQs

It’s important to thoroughly understand how IIDs work, and what you’ll need to do to stay in compliance with your program. Get fast answers to your most common questions about Interlocks in Washington.

What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?

What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?

Viewing 6 Topics

How Does It Work?

How Does It Work?

Show 9 Topics

How Do I Get An Appointment?

How Do I Get An Appointment?

Show 3 Topics

How Can We Help?

How Can We Help?

Show 3 Topics

What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?

An Ignition Interlock Device (IID), also called a car breathalyzer, is a device that measures breath alcohol content (BrAC). It is typically installed in your vehicle as part of an administrative or legal requirement after drunk driving. Learn more about Smart Start's Ignition Interlock here. 

How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?

In the state of Washington, Smart Start is on the approved list of Ignition Interlock Device providers, so you can be assured that our device will be compliant with your program. Smart Start’sIgnition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are tested to meet the standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) 

What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?

In Washington state, State you cannot wait out the Ignition Interlock requirement; it must be satisfied. You can install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on a family member’s vehicle or a friend’s vehicle that you’re borrowing, or you can buy a car. For a court requirement the judge may also choose to place you on a different form of alcohol monitoring like Smart Start’s IN-HOM™ SMART Mobile™. 

Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?

In Washington, you will need the Ignition Interlock Device on every vehicle that you drive, including another person’s vehicle. 

How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?

The state of Washington requires that both a camera and a GPS be installed with your Ignition Interlock Device (IID). 

Does the camera watch me all the time?

No, the camera will only take a picture as you provide a breath sample for the device. There is no live video feed. 

What happens after I get my DUI?

In Washington, once you get your DUI, you’ll contact an attorney. The attorney will tell you to immediately install yourIgnition Interlock Device (IID).  Your time with the IID will be applied retroactively to the fulfillment of your requirement unless otherwise specified by the judge. 

How do I obtain an Ignition Interlock License in Washington?

  • To obtain an Ignition Interlock License (IIL) in Washington State, follow these steps. This process is designed to allow individuals whose driving privileges have been suspended due to DUI or related offenses to drive legally with an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed in their vehicle: 
  • Obtain proof of financial responsibility. Typically, this involves purchasing and filing a SR-22 form with the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL), which is a certificate of financial responsibility that your insurance company files on your behalf. 
  • Apply for the Ignition Interlock License. You can apply for an IIL restricted license by submitting an application to the Washington State Department of Licensing. The application may include your personal information, details about your vehicle and IID, and the SR-22 certificate. 
  • Pay the required fees. There will be fees associated with the IIL application, IID installation, and monthly maintenance. Make sure to pay all necessary fees to both the DOL and your interlock device provider. 
  • Wait for approval. Once your application is submitted along with all required documentation and fees, the DOL will review your application. If approved, you will receive your Ignition Interlock License, which allows you to drive legally with the IID installed. 
  • Comply with license restrictions and requirements. With an IIL, you must drive vehicles equipped with an IID only. Additionally, you must comply with all terms set forth by the DOL, including regular IID data downloads and maintenance checks. 
It’s important to stay in communication with the Washington State Department of Licensing throughout this process for any specific requirements or changes in legislation. Always check the latest guidelines and procedures on the DOL’s official website or with a legal professional to ensure compliance with current laws. 

How do the consequences differ for a first and second DUI penalty? Third? Fourth?

  • In the state of Washington, DUI consequences are generally as follows: 
  • First DUI penalty: One year with an Ignition Interlock Device installed. 
  • Second DUI penalty: Mandatory jail time and arraignment. Within five days, you have to install an Ignition Interlock Device in your vehicle as a condition of your release. Then, you must complete five years with an IID installed. 
  • Third+ DUI penalty: 10 years with an IID installed. 
Additional consequences may be dictated by your judge, court, or Washington State authority. 

How do I know who my state authority is?

The court will tell you who your state authority is in Washington. Your state authority will usually either be the court (prosecution, probation, etc.) or the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL). You can verify the identity of your state authority with the specific court in which you were arrested. 

How often does my IID need to be serviced?

Washington state law dictates that you must service your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) once every 30 to 60 days. 

Where can I go for service? Anywhere, or just within my state?

Washington state law dictates that you can service your Ignition Interlock Device at any Smart Start service center in the state of Washington. 

Where do I send a record of my service appointments?

Smart Start will send a record of your service appointments to your state authority on your behalf at no additional cost to you. 

What happens if I violate?

If you violate in the state of Washington, immediate notification of your violation is sent to your State authority. 

What constitutes a violation in my state?

In the state of Washington, any and all of the following may constitute a violation: 
  • Any positive alcohol breath content above .025 
  • Any skipped rolling re-test 
  • Anything specified by your State authority 
  • Driving another person’s vehicle without an IID installed 

Where does installation fall based on my condition?

In the state of Washington, either the Department of Licensing (DOL) or the judge will order an Ignition Interlock Device (IID), and you’ll install the Ignition Interlock Device based on that order.  However, you can install the IID any time after you get a DUI to begin satisfying your requirement.   

What do I need to bring to my installation?

Once you have scheduled your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation with Smart Start, you will need to bring the following to your IID installation appointment: 
  • Vehicle registration OR a letter of permission from owner of vehicle to install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) 
  • Driver’s license 
  • Secondary proof of identification 

What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?

Smart Start will send proof of your installation to the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) and any other State authority on your behalf. 

What do I need for removal?

In the state of Washington, you don’t need anything specific to remove your Ignition Interlock Device (IID).  However, you won’t get credit for completing your requirement unless you’ve completed your four months of compliance (defined as four months without any sort of violation). 

What do I need to install voluntarily?

To install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on your vehicle or a family member’s vehicle voluntarily, complete our online form or call Smart Start at 800.831.3299 to speak with a Program Advisor and schedule a voluntary installation appointment. Make sure to bring your photo ID, vehicle registration and proof of vehicle insurance. Check to see if your insurance offers any discounts for voluntary interlock installation—especially for children going off to college. 

How can I pay for calibration?

You can pay for calibration via cash, credit card, or debit card at the Smart Start service center at the time of service. 

What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?

What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?

Viewing 6 Topics

What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?

An Ignition Interlock Device (IID), also called a car breathalyzer, is a device that measures breath alcohol content (BrAC). It is typically installed in your vehicle as part of an administrative or legal requirement after drunk driving. Learn more about Smart Start's Ignition Interlock here. 

How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?

In the state of Washington, Smart Start is on the approved list of Ignition Interlock Device providers, so you can be assured that our device will be compliant with your program. Smart Start’sIgnition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are tested to meet the standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) 

What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?

In Washington state, State you cannot wait out the Ignition Interlock requirement; it must be satisfied. You can install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on a family member’s vehicle or a friend’s vehicle that you’re borrowing, or you can buy a car. For a court requirement the judge may also choose to place you on a different form of alcohol monitoring like Smart Start’s IN-HOM™ SMART Mobile™. 

Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?

In Washington, you will need the Ignition Interlock Device on every vehicle that you drive, including another person’s vehicle. 

How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?

The state of Washington requires that both a camera and a GPS be installed with your Ignition Interlock Device (IID). 

Does the camera watch me all the time?

No, the camera will only take a picture as you provide a breath sample for the device. There is no live video feed. 

How Does It Work?

How Does It Work?

Show 9 Topics

What happens after I get my DUI?

In Washington, once you get your DUI, you’ll contact an attorney. The attorney will tell you to immediately install yourIgnition Interlock Device (IID).  Your time with the IID will be applied retroactively to the fulfillment of your requirement unless otherwise specified by the judge. 

How do I obtain an Ignition Interlock License in Washington?

  • To obtain an Ignition Interlock License (IIL) in Washington State, follow these steps. This process is designed to allow individuals whose driving privileges have been suspended due to DUI or related offenses to drive legally with an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed in their vehicle: 
  • Obtain proof of financial responsibility. Typically, this involves purchasing and filing a SR-22 form with the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL), which is a certificate of financial responsibility that your insurance company files on your behalf. 
  • Apply for the Ignition Interlock License. You can apply for an IIL restricted license by submitting an application to the Washington State Department of Licensing. The application may include your personal information, details about your vehicle and IID, and the SR-22 certificate. 
  • Pay the required fees. There will be fees associated with the IIL application, IID installation, and monthly maintenance. Make sure to pay all necessary fees to both the DOL and your interlock device provider. 
  • Wait for approval. Once your application is submitted along with all required documentation and fees, the DOL will review your application. If approved, you will receive your Ignition Interlock License, which allows you to drive legally with the IID installed. 
  • Comply with license restrictions and requirements. With an IIL, you must drive vehicles equipped with an IID only. Additionally, you must comply with all terms set forth by the DOL, including regular IID data downloads and maintenance checks. 
It’s important to stay in communication with the Washington State Department of Licensing throughout this process for any specific requirements or changes in legislation. Always check the latest guidelines and procedures on the DOL’s official website or with a legal professional to ensure compliance with current laws. 

How do the consequences differ for a first and second DUI penalty? Third? Fourth?

  • In the state of Washington, DUI consequences are generally as follows: 
  • First DUI penalty: One year with an Ignition Interlock Device installed. 
  • Second DUI penalty: Mandatory jail time and arraignment. Within five days, you have to install an Ignition Interlock Device in your vehicle as a condition of your release. Then, you must complete five years with an IID installed. 
  • Third+ DUI penalty: 10 years with an IID installed. 
Additional consequences may be dictated by your judge, court, or Washington State authority. 

How do I know who my state authority is?

The court will tell you who your state authority is in Washington. Your state authority will usually either be the court (prosecution, probation, etc.) or the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL). You can verify the identity of your state authority with the specific court in which you were arrested. 

How often does my IID need to be serviced?

Washington state law dictates that you must service your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) once every 30 to 60 days. 

Where can I go for service? Anywhere, or just within my state?

Washington state law dictates that you can service your Ignition Interlock Device at any Smart Start service center in the state of Washington. 

Where do I send a record of my service appointments?

Smart Start will send a record of your service appointments to your state authority on your behalf at no additional cost to you. 

What happens if I violate?

If you violate in the state of Washington, immediate notification of your violation is sent to your State authority. 

What constitutes a violation in my state?

In the state of Washington, any and all of the following may constitute a violation: 
  • Any positive alcohol breath content above .025 
  • Any skipped rolling re-test 
  • Anything specified by your State authority 
  • Driving another person’s vehicle without an IID installed 

How Do I Get An Appointment?

How Do I Get An Appointment?

Show 3 Topics

Where does installation fall based on my condition?

In the state of Washington, either the Department of Licensing (DOL) or the judge will order an Ignition Interlock Device (IID), and you’ll install the Ignition Interlock Device based on that order.  However, you can install the IID any time after you get a DUI to begin satisfying your requirement.   

What do I need to bring to my installation?

Once you have scheduled your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation with Smart Start, you will need to bring the following to your IID installation appointment: 
  • Vehicle registration OR a letter of permission from owner of vehicle to install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) 
  • Driver’s license 
  • Secondary proof of identification 

What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?

Smart Start will send proof of your installation to the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) and any other State authority on your behalf. 

How Can We Help?

How Can We Help?

Show 3 Topics

What do I need for removal?

In the state of Washington, you don’t need anything specific to remove your Ignition Interlock Device (IID).  However, you won’t get credit for completing your requirement unless you’ve completed your four months of compliance (defined as four months without any sort of violation). 

What do I need to install voluntarily?

To install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on your vehicle or a family member’s vehicle voluntarily, complete our online form or call Smart Start at 800.831.3299 to speak with a Program Advisor and schedule a voluntary installation appointment. Make sure to bring your photo ID, vehicle registration and proof of vehicle insurance. Check to see if your insurance offers any discounts for voluntary interlock installation—especially for children going off to college. 

How can I pay for calibration?

You can pay for calibration via cash, credit card, or debit card at the Smart Start service center at the time of service. 

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