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Ignition Interlock in Minnesota: We’re Always Here for You
If you have been charged with a DWI, also known as a DUI, we offer more than just one of the best Ignition Interlock Devices in Minnesota. Our caring, compassionate specialists are dedicated to helping you complete your car breathalyzer requirement wherever you live.
Outstanding customer care makes our affordable Ignition Interlock program in Minnesota even better. We’ll be with you right from the beginning with the services and support you need at any of our Minnesota service centers. Trust Smart Start and schedule an installation appointment now.
How do you get your license back in Minnesota after a DWI?
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
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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!
How much does an Ignition Interlock Device cost in Minnesota?
At Smart Start, we understand the challenges that come with a DWI and that’s why we provide an affordable and user-friendly IID option to support your successful completion of the Interlock program.
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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
Why Choose Smart Start in Minnesota
Your DWI 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 long-term contracts
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Convenient locations 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
Minnesota 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 Minnesota.
What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 4 Topics
How Does It Work?
Show 5 Topics
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 5 Topics
How Can We Help?
Show 2 Topics
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
An Ignition Interlock is an electronic device that tests the level of alcohol in your breath and prevents you from driving your vehicle until you can pass a test. It is installed into your vehicle’s electrical system and interrupts the starter until the driver has an alcohol test below Minnesota’s required level.
A driver who is going to lose their license for a DWI can be approved for the Minnesota Ignition Interlock program almost immediately. No need to wait for court! Call Smart Start MN at 612-607-0833, or fill out our online form, and we’ll assist you in getting back on the road.
How do I know if I’m eligible for an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
You can always call Smart Start MN at 612-607-0833, or fill out our online form, and we’ll help you determine your eligibility. Calling us first will also save you time.
How do I know what kind of IID to get?
Smart Start MN is a state-certified Ignition Interlock provider, so we’re able to meet all the alcohol state authority’s requirements to ensure that you’re compliant. Call us today at 612-607-0833, or fill out our online form, and we can help you determine what your Ignition Interlock needs are.
What is the difference between a revoked license and a cancelled driver’s license?
A revoked driver can easily get into the Minnesota Ignition Interlock program. The program requirements are straight-forward, and in most cases, Smart Start MN can have you driving again with minimal disruption. Revoked drivers can drive their vehicle anywhere they want, and any time they want. There are no driving restrictions on revoked drivers once they have been installed with the Ignition Interlock and approved by the state.
A cancelled driver has a substantial number of requirements to be approved to drive. There are additional documents and steps that must be completed. If you are a cancelled driver, we can help you arrange all the steps necessary to get the state’s approval.
Give us a call at 612-607-0833 or fill out our online form to help you determine what steps you will need to take to enter the Minnesota Ignition Interlock program.
How can I learn how to use my device properly?
You will be trained on the use of the device at your installation appointment. One of our helpful technicians will show you how the device works and practice your testing techniques with you while in the shop. Additionally, we have a training video that is available on our website that shows you how to use the device. This video can be reviewed both before and after your installation appointment.
If you need more assistance with training on your device, Smart Start MN can always provide one-on-one support!
Will I have to take a test while I’m driving?
You will not HAVE to take a test while you are driving. Your initial test will always be before your vehicle starts, but on subsequent rolling retests, we encourage you to pull over to the side of the road to take the test. Once your Ignition Interlock has indicated that you need to take a test, you will have 10 minutes to provide that breath sample. You should have plenty of time to pull over and take the breath test.
How much can I drink before I blow a violation in Minnesota?
It depends and will be a function of what you are drinking, when you drank it, and your metabolism. In Minnesota, the fail point for the device is very low, a quarter of the legal limit. It does not take much to put you over the fail point for the device. Make sure to rinse your mouth out with water before taking a test to ensure maximum accuracy.
Do I require special insurance during my Ignition Interlock program?
Yes, Minnesota requires an Insurance Certification from your insurance company. This certification goes by a variety of names, but it is a requirement that this document be produced to the State prior to your approval into the Ignition Interlock program. Please contact us at 612-607-0833 or fill out our form online, and we can explain how to go about obtaining that certification, or we can even make referrals to providers of the certification.
Do I need to pre-pay for a year of insurance to get the insurance certification?
No. The requirement of the Insurance Certification is to prove to the state that liability insurance is in place. There is no requirement that insurance be pre-paid.
Where is the nearest Smart Start service center to me?
Visit Smart Start’s Locations page and enter your zip code to find a list of locations nearest you. We have many locations throughout Minnesota, so you’re sure to find a location that’s close and convenient to you.
Do I need to schedule an appointment to install my Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Yes. You can fill out our short Online Form to have a Customer Care expert contact you to schedule an appointment. You can also call us at 612-607-0833 to speak with a Smart Start MN representative today. In some cases, same-day installation appointments are available.
What should I bring to my installation appointment?
There are no forms that are required of you to install. However, you will need to be approved for the Minnesota Ignition Interlock Program to drive legally. It can be daunting to try to figure out what forms the State of Minnesota requires. The easiest way to make sure you are progressing to driving is to call Smart Start Minnesota at 612-607-0833, or find us online to send a Contact request, email or online chat, and discuss the steps you need to take with one of our Smart Start MN representatives.
What documents do I need to provide to Smart Start Minnesota?
Smart Start MN does not require any documents to get your Ignition Interlock installed. However, Minnesota law requires that you be approved into the Minnesota Ignition Interlock program before you can legally drive. Call us today at 612-607-0833, or fill out our online form, and we can help you determine what paperwork you need for state approval.
Do I have to own the vehicle that I intend to drive?
No, you can borrow a vehicle from a friend or relative to drive in the Ignition Interlock program. However, you are still required to obtain the Insurance Certification, and you must be a named insured on the insurance policy and you also must be a named insured on the Insurance Certification.
I need to take my vehicle to a mechanic. Can he/she work around my Ignition Interlock? What do I do?
You have two excellent options available. First, most Smart Start MN locations are full-service auto repair locations with ASE-certified mechanics. Each Smart Start MN location is fully capable of providing you with all your necessary vehicle maintenance while knowing how to work the Ignition Interlock, so you don’t have to worry about misuse of your device or potential violations occurring on your device. If you insist on having your own mechanic work on your car, the mechanic can call our Corporate Headquarters at (800) 831-3299 for instructions on what to do to assist your mechanic.
How much does an Ignition Interlock system cost? What are the fees?
Smart Start MN is unique in the Ignition Interlock industry where we only charge one simple flat rate per month. This flat rate includes your monthly calibration service, download of your device’s data, repair/replacement/maintenance to your device and any device lockouts due to violations. No other vendor can make that promise! We provide all-inclusive, straightforward pricing, and NO hidden fees. Call Smart Start MN today at 612-607-0833 to discuss your next steps to enter Minnesota’s Ignition Interlock program.
What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 4 Topics
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
An Ignition Interlock is an electronic device that tests the level of alcohol in your breath and prevents you from driving your vehicle until you can pass a test. It is installed into your vehicle’s electrical system and interrupts the starter until the driver has an alcohol test below Minnesota’s required level.
A driver who is going to lose their license for a DWI can be approved for the Minnesota Ignition Interlock program almost immediately. No need to wait for court! Call Smart Start MN at 612-607-0833, or fill out our online form, and we’ll assist you in getting back on the road.
How do I know if I’m eligible for an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
You can always call Smart Start MN at 612-607-0833, or fill out our online form, and we’ll help you determine your eligibility. Calling us first will also save you time.
How do I know what kind of IID to get?
Smart Start MN is a state-certified Ignition Interlock provider, so we’re able to meet all the alcohol state authority’s requirements to ensure that you’re compliant. Call us today at 612-607-0833, or fill out our online form, and we can help you determine what your Ignition Interlock needs are.
What is the difference between a revoked license and a cancelled driver’s license?
A revoked driver can easily get into the Minnesota Ignition Interlock program. The program requirements are straight-forward, and in most cases, Smart Start MN can have you driving again with minimal disruption. Revoked drivers can drive their vehicle anywhere they want, and any time they want. There are no driving restrictions on revoked drivers once they have been installed with the Ignition Interlock and approved by the state.
A cancelled driver has a substantial number of requirements to be approved to drive. There are additional documents and steps that must be completed. If you are a cancelled driver, we can help you arrange all the steps necessary to get the state’s approval.
Give us a call at 612-607-0833 or fill out our online form to help you determine what steps you will need to take to enter the Minnesota Ignition Interlock program.
How Does It Work?
Show 5 Topics
How can I learn how to use my device properly?
You will be trained on the use of the device at your installation appointment. One of our helpful technicians will show you how the device works and practice your testing techniques with you while in the shop. Additionally, we have a training video that is available on our website that shows you how to use the device. This video can be reviewed both before and after your installation appointment.
If you need more assistance with training on your device, Smart Start MN can always provide one-on-one support!
Will I have to take a test while I’m driving?
You will not HAVE to take a test while you are driving. Your initial test will always be before your vehicle starts, but on subsequent rolling retests, we encourage you to pull over to the side of the road to take the test. Once your Ignition Interlock has indicated that you need to take a test, you will have 10 minutes to provide that breath sample. You should have plenty of time to pull over and take the breath test.
How much can I drink before I blow a violation in Minnesota?
It depends and will be a function of what you are drinking, when you drank it, and your metabolism. In Minnesota, the fail point for the device is very low, a quarter of the legal limit. It does not take much to put you over the fail point for the device. Make sure to rinse your mouth out with water before taking a test to ensure maximum accuracy.
Do I require special insurance during my Ignition Interlock program?
Yes, Minnesota requires an Insurance Certification from your insurance company. This certification goes by a variety of names, but it is a requirement that this document be produced to the State prior to your approval into the Ignition Interlock program. Please contact us at 612-607-0833 or fill out our form online, and we can explain how to go about obtaining that certification, or we can even make referrals to providers of the certification.
Do I need to pre-pay for a year of insurance to get the insurance certification?
No. The requirement of the Insurance Certification is to prove to the state that liability insurance is in place. There is no requirement that insurance be pre-paid.
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 5 Topics
Where is the nearest Smart Start service center to me?
Visit Smart Start’s Locations page and enter your zip code to find a list of locations nearest you. We have many locations throughout Minnesota, so you’re sure to find a location that’s close and convenient to you.
Do I need to schedule an appointment to install my Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Yes. You can fill out our short Online Form to have a Customer Care expert contact you to schedule an appointment. You can also call us at 612-607-0833 to speak with a Smart Start MN representative today. In some cases, same-day installation appointments are available.
What should I bring to my installation appointment?
There are no forms that are required of you to install. However, you will need to be approved for the Minnesota Ignition Interlock Program to drive legally. It can be daunting to try to figure out what forms the State of Minnesota requires. The easiest way to make sure you are progressing to driving is to call Smart Start Minnesota at 612-607-0833, or find us online to send a Contact request, email or online chat, and discuss the steps you need to take with one of our Smart Start MN representatives.
What documents do I need to provide to Smart Start Minnesota?
Smart Start MN does not require any documents to get your Ignition Interlock installed. However, Minnesota law requires that you be approved into the Minnesota Ignition Interlock program before you can legally drive. Call us today at 612-607-0833, or fill out our online form, and we can help you determine what paperwork you need for state approval.
Do I have to own the vehicle that I intend to drive?
No, you can borrow a vehicle from a friend or relative to drive in the Ignition Interlock program. However, you are still required to obtain the Insurance Certification, and you must be a named insured on the insurance policy and you also must be a named insured on the Insurance Certification.
How Can We Help?
Show 2 Topics
I need to take my vehicle to a mechanic. Can he/she work around my Ignition Interlock? What do I do?
You have two excellent options available. First, most Smart Start MN locations are full-service auto repair locations with ASE-certified mechanics. Each Smart Start MN location is fully capable of providing you with all your necessary vehicle maintenance while knowing how to work the Ignition Interlock, so you don’t have to worry about misuse of your device or potential violations occurring on your device. If you insist on having your own mechanic work on your car, the mechanic can call our Corporate Headquarters at (800) 831-3299 for instructions on what to do to assist your mechanic.
How much does an Ignition Interlock system cost? What are the fees?
Smart Start MN is unique in the Ignition Interlock industry where we only charge one simple flat rate per month. This flat rate includes your monthly calibration service, download of your device’s data, repair/replacement/maintenance to your device and any device lockouts due to violations. No other vendor can make that promise! We provide all-inclusive, straightforward pricing, and NO hidden fees. Call Smart Start MN today at 612-607-0833 to discuss your next steps to enter Minnesota’s Ignition Interlock program.
See What Everyone Says About Our Ignition Interlock
Excellent TrustScore Rating
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.
United States
