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Finding a State-Approved Interlock Provider

When an interlock device is court-mandated, you are required to install an IID from a state-approved provider. These providers work with your state’s monitoring authority to keep your data secure while sharing it with the proper channels.

Finding a state-approved provider is also a requirement for offenders who want to regain driving privileges. The offender usually has to provide a certificate of installation as proof they have an IID before being granted a restricted or limited license.


How Can I Find the Best Interlock Provider for Me?

There are many state-approved providers, though not all are available in every state. The court should give you a list and contact information for the interlock providers in your state. While this will narrow down your options, there are many ignition interlock companies to choose from.

There are a few that stand out, and one we recommend strongly. The chart below showcases what most customers are looking for, and which companies may provide those features. We've also provided a list of questions you should ask yourself when choosing an IID provider. 

Does the ignition interlock device company meet my state requirements?

As mentioned earlier, typically the court or your attorney will provide you with a list of approved providers. If you’re unsure, you can always check with your monitoring authority or verify with your attorney that your chosen provider meets state criteria. Our preferred provider, Intoxalock, has their sales and customer service representatives help you collect the paperwork and information needed to confirm which device you need. This is the fastest and easiest of set ups as we have found.

Does the ignition interlock device offered include a camera, GPS or other advanced technology required by my state?

States do have different requirements for their interlock devices. Some require a camera to photograph the user before or during their test. Intoxalock offers devices with cameras that are also state-approved. Not all technologies used by breathalyzer providers are certified by the state. This is important to consider when making your choice. You will want to ensure that the company is a nationally recognized brand that’s not been suspended by a state before. This can help you determine if the device will meet state criteria and allow you to serve your IID period without incident. Intoxalock has never been suspended in any state.

Does this ignition interlock device provider have locations near me?

It’s important to note that when you have an interlock device, you will have to return on a regular basis for device calibration. This makes choosing a convenient location particularly important. You can use our ignition interlock device installation center locator or enter your ZIP code to find the closest shop. This shop will handle the installation, maintenance, calibration, and device removal services you need. 

Has the ignition interlock company ever been suspended in a state in the U.S.?

State suspension is serious, and can impact your driving privileges. We can’t stress the importance of caution when choosing your interlock provider enough. If a company has been suspended in a different state, it’s possible they could soon be suspended in yours. If your chosen provider is suspended during your interlock term, this will require you to make a switch, taking time, effort, and money. When an ignition interlock company is suspended in a state, the customers are all required to find a new provider and get a new device. This can delay your interlock removal date. Be sure to verify your provider has never been suspended in your state or others. Intoxalock is one of the only IID providers that has never been suspended or penalized in any state.

How seriously should I take ignition interlock device reviews?

Since very few ignition interlock devices are acquired voluntarily, product reviews are often heavily skewed with negative reviews from customers who are upset they needed to install a device at all. In some cases, they may have also been caught drinking and driving with their IID. This can lead to an overflow of bad reviews that aren’t really product-specific, but result from customers’ frustration at their own situation. Bad reviews can stem from other things like customers not following their order, customers upset at interlock costs and responsibilities, and more. A DUI is hard to recover from and can result in a lot of anger and negativity. It is understandable that this is a rough time and the state laws certainly crack down on driving under the influence. Check reviews with a critical eye to see what you can discern about the service and customer support provided. While the other negative complaints may not apply to you, the best thing the ignition interlock device company can do is provide helpful customer service if you need them. Intoxalock has a nearly five-star review rating on Trustpilot, a third-party review site.

Overall, the decision is yours and you can easily find the best ignition interlock provider for you if you follow these tips. Read more to find out more about ignition interlock devices and what to expect.

Features

Intoxalock

Smart Start

LifeSafer

Device Design
One button, no need to look at or read the device screen while driving.

Full numerical keypad. The screen requires you to read it while testing.Four buttons, must be able to read screen to retest while driving.
Blow PatternBlow-inhale-blow, easy to perform pattern.
Devices uses a blow-hum-blow pattern. This is difficult and distracting for many and can lead to lockouts.

Blow-hum-blow, more complicated pattern.
Locations
5,000+ locations in 47 states, within 15 minutes of 91% of customers.

1,800 locations1,500 locations 
Pricing
$2.50 to $3.50 per day, with optional device protection plan for $10 per month.

Varies by state - must call for pricing.$2.50 to $3.50 per day.
SupportAvailable 24/7 via text, email and chat.Available 24/7 via text, email and chat.
Available via phone and email, 48 hour turnaround time for email.