Navigating the DUI process can be a challenge, so knowing what to expect can help. We’ve collected some general information about DUI requirements and penalties in Pennsylvania to get you started.
Smart Start Ignition Interlock: We’re Here for the Keystone State
Getting a DUI in Pennsylvania can feel like the end of the road — but Smart Start can help you find the path forward. We offer Ignition Interlock services near you in Pennsylvania, with 24/7 multilingual support from our compassionate customer care team.
We strive to offer competitive pricing on Ignition Interlocks in PA, and our skilled technicians know how to install your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) quickly so you can return to the road. Get in touch with Smart Start today — our friendly Program Advisors will help you find a PA DUI Interlock solution that fits your needs and program requirements.
How do you get your license back in Pennsylvania after a DUI?
Pennsylvania allows some drivers to obtain an Ignition Interlock Limited License (IILL) after a DUI.
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 March 1, 2025.
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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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Get In Touch With A Program Advisor Or Call (800) 831-3299 Now!Understanding Pennsylvania DUI Requirements
Basic DUI Requirements
DUI charges in Pennsylvania are assigned to one of three tiers, based on your blood alcohol content (BAC) as tested by law enforcement:
- General Impairment (BAC .08% to .099%)
- High BAC (BAC .10% to .159%)
- Highest BAC (BAC .16% and above, or you refused a field test)
Depending on which category you fall into, as well as other factors such as whether it’s your first DUI, you might face penalties from the State of Pennsylvania such as:
- Traffic fines between $300-$10,000
- Alcohol evaluation, education, and treatment requirement
- Probation or jail time
- Driver’s license suspension between 12-18 months
- Ignition Interlock requirement of 1 year
You also might be required to have an Ignition Interlock Device installed in any vehicle you drive. You’ll need to pay the cost to install and maintain the device, which must be installed by a PA interlock vendor like Smart Start.
License Reinstatement
Pennsylvania allows some drivers to obtain an Ignition Interlock Limited License (IILL) after a DUI. This license allows you to regain your driving privileges if certain conditions are met, including installing an IID.
You can request a Vehicle Registration Restoration Requirements Letter from the Pennsylvania DOT. This letter will give you specific instructions on how to restore your license and verify that you’ve completed any required conditions. If an Interlock is a requirement for you, you may also receive a letter from the Pennsylvania DOT 30 days prior to eligibility.
To apply for an IILL, you’ll complete the Ignition Interlock Limited License Petition and mail it, along with any required fees, to PennDOT. You can learn more by checking out PennDOT’s Ignition Interlock Limited License Fact Sheet.
How much does an Ignition Interlock Device cost in Pennsylvania?
We understand that a DUI can be a major financial challenge, so we offer an affordable solution for getting your Ignition Interlock in PA.
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Free, fast, and customized quotes from our friendly Program Advisors -
No long-term contracts required
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Affordable pricing
Free, fast, and customized quotes from our friendly Program Advisors For drivers who meet certain financial requirements, the State of Pennsylvania offers a hardship exemption that can help you afford an IID. For more information on the cost of an Ignition Interlock near you, see our IID cost guide for Pennsylvania.
Why Choose Smart Start in Pennsylvania?
Your DUI doesn’t have to define your life. With our knowledgeable Program Advisors who are ready to listen and address your needs, Smart Start is here to help you get on the road to a brighter future.
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No need to buy equipment or sign long-term contracts
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70+ service centers, often with same-day installation options
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24/7/365 multilingual customer support
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Easy-to-use Interlock Device technology
No need to buy equipment or sign long-term contracts 
Pennsylvania Forms
As part of your Ignition Interlock requirement, you may be required to complete specific forms. Find the forms you need right here!
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 6 Topics
How Does It Work?
Show 8 Topics
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 3 Topics
How Can We Help?
Show 3 Topics
How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?
Smart Start devices are compliant with all state and federal requirements, and we are certified and approved as an ignition interlock provider by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). In addition, our devices are tested and certified to meet the standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). All Ignition Interlock Device requirements in Pennsylvania will be listed on the Pennsylvania DUI Association (PADUI) website.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
If you have an Ignition Interlock Device requirement, but you don’t own a vehicle, the state of Pennsylvania requires you to submit a DL-17 form to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) stating that you don’t own a vehicle. Then, you will have to go through an Ignition Interlock provider like Smart Start to verify through the vehicle registration check that you do not own a vehicle. You can also give us supporting documentation proving that you don’t own a vehicle. However, you will still need to complete all of the other requirements on your Restoration Requirements Letter. If you bring your completed form DL-17, Smart Start will send a form DL-21 to PennDOT on your behalf.
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
Yes, the state of Pennsylvania requires you to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on every vehicle that you own.
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
In the state of Pennsylvania, a court order would dictate the need for a camera or GPS, but all of your specific ignition interlock requirements will be specified by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) in your Restoration Requirements Letter.
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.
Is the Ignition Interlock Device connected to my horn and lights?
Yes, Pennsylvania state law requires that the Ignition Interlock Device be connected to your horn and lights.
What happens after I get my DUI?
Once you are convicted of a DUI, you’ll receive a Restoration Requirements Letter from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). It will list all the requirements you must meet before you can install an Ignition Interlock Device. If you have any jail time listed as a requirement, you will have to complete your required jail time before you install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID). Jail time is not included in your license suspension. Typically, your license will be suspended for 12 months before you are eligible to install your Ignition Interlock Device (IID). You may have the option to apply for an occupational limited license (OLL). If you are eligible for the OLL, you can install your Ignition Interlock Device six months early with restricted driving times. If you are not eligible for an OLL, you will have to wait until your eligibility date, which follows your 12 months of suspension. Then, you will receive a Restoration Requirements Letter from PennDOT. You must complete all of the requirements listed in your Restoration Requirements Letter before PennDOT will grant you the ability to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID).
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DUI penalty? Third? Fourth?
In the state of Pennsylvania, there is no requirement for a first offense unless your judge dictates differently. If you have multiple years of suspension, once you’ve completed 50% of your suspension, you can apply for a probationary license that will allow you to have an Interlock restricted license for 12 months. After the 12 months are up, you can be issued a probationary license that no longer requires the Ignition Interlock Device. If you have another traffic violation during your probationary period, you will be kicked off the program, and you will need to finish the full remainder of your suspension.
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
The state of Pennsylvania requires that you service your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) 30 days after installation, and then up to 60 days every term thereafter.
Where can I go for service? Anywhere, or just within my state?
The state of Pennsylvania rules and regulations allow you to install or service your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) at any Smart Start service center nationwide.
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
Smart Start will send a record of your service appointments to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) on your behalf at no additional cost to you.
What happens if I violate?
If you violate in the state of Pennsylvania, you will be forced to pay a fee. If you fail to come in for service beyond the five-day grace period, you will become non-compliant, and you will remain non-compliant until you bring your car in for servicing. Your device may also go into lockout. If you purchase a new vehicle and do not install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID), you will be held in non-compliance until you install an Ignition Interlock Device on that vehicle. If you remove your Ignition Interlock Device before your program is up, and you have not been issued an unrestricted license, you will be non-compliant until you reinstall the device.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
In the state of Pennsylvania, any and all of the following may constitute a violation:
- Any alcohol content above the limit established by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), which is currently .025
- Skipping a rolling re-test
- Failing a rolling re-test
How do I know who my state authority is?
In the state of Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is your state authority. Your activities are monitored by the Pennsylvania DUI Association (PADUI).
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
In the state of Pennsylvania, you cannot install an Ignition Interlock Device until your eligibility date unless you are applying for an OLL, but you should begin completing your requirements listed on the Restoration Requirements Letter 30 days before the eligibility date.
What do I need to bring to my installation?
You will need to be driven to your installation by a driver with a valid driver’s license. To install the Ignition Interlock Device at a Smart Start service center in Pennsylvania, you will need to bring the following:
- 2 forms of photo identification
- Your eligibility date
- No eligibility date on the Restoration Requirements Letter
- An Act 122
- An Act 151, if completion of your jail time has not been acknowledged
- If you have court costs that have not been paid
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
Once you have installed an Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle, Smart Start will send a completed form DL-21 to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) on your behalf at no additional cost to you.
What do I need for removal?
To remove the Ignition Interlock Device at a Smart Start service center in the state of Pennsylvania, you will need an unrestricted regular driver’s license, a probationary restricted license, or a learner’s permit that does not have an interlock restriction.
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 at the service center during your service appointment using a credit card.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 6 Topics
How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?
Smart Start devices are compliant with all state and federal requirements, and we are certified and approved as an ignition interlock provider by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). In addition, our devices are tested and certified to meet the standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). All Ignition Interlock Device requirements in Pennsylvania will be listed on the Pennsylvania DUI Association (PADUI) website.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
If you have an Ignition Interlock Device requirement, but you don’t own a vehicle, the state of Pennsylvania requires you to submit a DL-17 form to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) stating that you don’t own a vehicle. Then, you will have to go through an Ignition Interlock provider like Smart Start to verify through the vehicle registration check that you do not own a vehicle. You can also give us supporting documentation proving that you don’t own a vehicle. However, you will still need to complete all of the other requirements on your Restoration Requirements Letter. If you bring your completed form DL-17, Smart Start will send a form DL-21 to PennDOT on your behalf.
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
Yes, the state of Pennsylvania requires you to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on every vehicle that you own.
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
In the state of Pennsylvania, a court order would dictate the need for a camera or GPS, but all of your specific ignition interlock requirements will be specified by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) in your Restoration Requirements Letter.
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.
Is the Ignition Interlock Device connected to my horn and lights?
Yes, Pennsylvania state law requires that the Ignition Interlock Device be connected to your horn and lights.
How Does It Work?
Show 8 Topics
What happens after I get my DUI?
Once you are convicted of a DUI, you’ll receive a Restoration Requirements Letter from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). It will list all the requirements you must meet before you can install an Ignition Interlock Device. If you have any jail time listed as a requirement, you will have to complete your required jail time before you install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID). Jail time is not included in your license suspension. Typically, your license will be suspended for 12 months before you are eligible to install your Ignition Interlock Device (IID). You may have the option to apply for an occupational limited license (OLL). If you are eligible for the OLL, you can install your Ignition Interlock Device six months early with restricted driving times. If you are not eligible for an OLL, you will have to wait until your eligibility date, which follows your 12 months of suspension. Then, you will receive a Restoration Requirements Letter from PennDOT. You must complete all of the requirements listed in your Restoration Requirements Letter before PennDOT will grant you the ability to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID).
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DUI penalty? Third? Fourth?
In the state of Pennsylvania, there is no requirement for a first offense unless your judge dictates differently. If you have multiple years of suspension, once you’ve completed 50% of your suspension, you can apply for a probationary license that will allow you to have an Interlock restricted license for 12 months. After the 12 months are up, you can be issued a probationary license that no longer requires the Ignition Interlock Device. If you have another traffic violation during your probationary period, you will be kicked off the program, and you will need to finish the full remainder of your suspension.
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
The state of Pennsylvania requires that you service your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) 30 days after installation, and then up to 60 days every term thereafter.
Where can I go for service? Anywhere, or just within my state?
The state of Pennsylvania rules and regulations allow you to install or service your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) at any Smart Start service center nationwide.
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
Smart Start will send a record of your service appointments to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) on your behalf at no additional cost to you.
What happens if I violate?
If you violate in the state of Pennsylvania, you will be forced to pay a fee. If you fail to come in for service beyond the five-day grace period, you will become non-compliant, and you will remain non-compliant until you bring your car in for servicing. Your device may also go into lockout. If you purchase a new vehicle and do not install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID), you will be held in non-compliance until you install an Ignition Interlock Device on that vehicle. If you remove your Ignition Interlock Device before your program is up, and you have not been issued an unrestricted license, you will be non-compliant until you reinstall the device.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
In the state of Pennsylvania, any and all of the following may constitute a violation:
- Any alcohol content above the limit established by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), which is currently .025
- Skipping a rolling re-test
- Failing a rolling re-test
How do I know who my state authority is?
In the state of Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is your state authority. Your activities are monitored by the Pennsylvania DUI Association (PADUI).
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 3 Topics
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
In the state of Pennsylvania, you cannot install an Ignition Interlock Device until your eligibility date unless you are applying for an OLL, but you should begin completing your requirements listed on the Restoration Requirements Letter 30 days before the eligibility date.
What do I need to bring to my installation?
You will need to be driven to your installation by a driver with a valid driver’s license. To install the Ignition Interlock Device at a Smart Start service center in Pennsylvania, you will need to bring the following:
- 2 forms of photo identification
- Your eligibility date
- No eligibility date on the Restoration Requirements Letter
- An Act 122
- An Act 151, if completion of your jail time has not been acknowledged
- If you have court costs that have not been paid
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
Once you have installed an Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle, Smart Start will send a completed form DL-21 to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) on your behalf at no additional cost to you.
How Can We Help?
Show 3 Topics
What do I need for removal?
To remove the Ignition Interlock Device at a Smart Start service center in the state of Pennsylvania, you will need an unrestricted regular driver’s license, a probationary restricted license, or a learner’s permit that does not have an interlock restriction.
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 at the service center during your service appointment using a credit card.
See What Everyone Says About Our Ignition Interlock
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September 11, 2025
"The representative was very helpful."
Angie burns.
United States
September 10, 2025
"Erica help the process of getting this done very simple fast and easy. Crappy situation but at least this isn’t stressful lol"
Jarrel Broussard.
United States
September 9, 2025
" She was very patient accurate & to the point!took no time to get my interlocking appointment scheduled "
Gene Grier.
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