California DMV and Ignition Interlocks : Alcohol Schools

Every California DUI arrest triggers two separate and distinct cases: the California DUI criminal court case, and the California DMV case. They are totally separate and distinct; what happens in one generally has no impact on what happens in the other. However, both the DMV case and the criminal court case could give rise to the need for an ignition interlock device. If you've been arrested for a California DUI, you should consult with a drunk driving lawyer at once. (See our Helpful Links page for more information on California DUI lawyers or drunk driving defense attorneys that can help.)

The California DMV does offer an opportunity for those convicted of California DUI to regain their driving privileges on condition that they have an ignition interlock device installed in their car. The ignition interlock device must be from an approved provider, such as Smart Start of California, and must be calibrated every 60 days (at a minimum).

Please feel free to call on us at Smart Start of California if you qualify to receive a California driver's license on condition that you keep an ignition interlock installed in your car. Generally, if you have completed at least half of your drunk driving suspension/revocation, and your last drunk driving violation occurred July 1, 1999, or later, you may qualify for a restricted license if you meet these requirements:

• Install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle and provide DMV with a Verification of Installation form (DL 920).
• Clear all other outstanding suspensions/revocations on your driving record.
• Comply with a drinking driver program's requirements and have the program provider submit either a Proof of Enrollment form (DL 107) or Notice of Completion form (DL 101) to DMV (whichever applies to your case).
• Submit an SR 22 form establishing proof of financial responsibility issued by your auto insurance company to DMV.
• Pay all required fees, including the $15 ignition interlock device restriction fee.

NOTE: Call DMV at (916) 657-6525 for eligibility information, or simply call Smart Start of California, and we would be glad to help you out. We can be reached toll-free, 24/7, at 1.800.880.3394.

All required forms and fees may be submitted to any local Department of Motor Vehicles office or mailed to: DMV, Mail Station J233, P.O. Box 942890, Sacramento, CA 94290-0001.

Smart Start of California is one of the few licensed ignition interlock providers in California, and is here to help you navigate the process of properly restoring your driving privileges by way of an ignition interlock device installed in your car. If you've been convicted of DUI, drunk driving, or any related drinking and driving offense, please call on us today to see if an ignition interlock device will assist you in regaining your California driving privileges. Call us anytime, day or night, and we'd be happy to help: 1.800.880.3394.