North Carolina Ignition Interlock Laws

For DWI offenders, the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the courts may require you to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle if you…

Had a breath alcohol concentration (BAC) level of .15 or higher.
Are guilty of a second or subsequent DWI traffic offense within seven years.

*You will be responsible for all costs and installation services for the IID, and will be required to bring your vehicle in for regular monitoring.

How to Get Your License Quickly in North Carolina

Serve any jail or suspension time, as well as complete a DWI Assessment.
Call 800.831.3299 to schedule an appointment to have your interlock device installed with a state-approved, Smart Start Interlock service provider. Call the DMV at 919-715-7000 to verify your installation date first before visiting Smart Start.
Pay all your applicable fees. Note that you will still have to complete court regulations as well.

DISCLAIMER: These steps may not be a complete representation of what you must do to regain your license. As DWI 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 Long Do I Have My Interlock in North Carolina?

DWI Offense	License Suspension/Revocation Period	Interlock Period
First	1 year	1 year
First Aggravated – Level 1	Permanent revocation	3 years
Second in seven years	1 year	1 year
Second in three years	4 years	3 years
Third in seven years	1 year	1 year
Third in five years	Permanent revocation	7 years