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 your Ignition 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:
- Install an Ignition Interlock Device. You can find an Ignition Interlock installation center in Washington on our website!
- 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.
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 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’s Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are tested to meet the standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
What happens if I violate?
If you violate in the state of Washington, immediate notification of your violation is sent to your State authority.
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.
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DUI penalties? 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.
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 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.
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.
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
What do I need to do to install voluntarily?
To install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on your vehicle or a family member’s vehicle voluntarily, click the chat window below, fill out our online form, or call Smart Start at 800.831.3299 to speak with one of our customer care advocates and schedule a voluntary installation appointment. Check to see if your insurance offers any discounts for voluntary interlock installation—especially for children going off to college.
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).
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, and you’ll install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) based on that order. However, you can install the IID any time after you get a DUI to begin satisfying your requirement.
Does the Ignition Interlock camera watch me all the time?
No, it only takes a picture when you take a test. There is no live video feed.
How do I know who my Washington 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 do I know what my state requires in an Ignition Interlock Device?
You can visit the Washington State Patrol website to verify the requirements of an Ignition Interlock Device in Washington, or you can check with your attorney. Because Smart Start is on the list of approved Ignition Interlock Device providers in the state of Washington, you can be sure that our devices will be compliant with your program
How can I pay for calibration?
You can pay by cash, credit card, or debit card at the Smart Start Ignition Interlock service center at the time of calibration.
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
Smart Start will send the record of your service appointments to your State authority on your behalf at no additional cost to you.
Will the Ingition Interlock Device damage my vehicle?
No, Smart Start’s Ignition Interlock Device (IID) will not hurt your vehicle.
Can I get one on my motorcycle?
Motorcycle Ignition Interlock installation laws differ by state. Smart Start operates throughout the U.S. as a certified manufacturer and will work harder than other companies to provide you a seamless Interlock program that still follows your case requirements in the state of Washington. Please call our Customer Care Center at 800-831-3299 if you have any questions.