The more you understand about your Missouri DWI charge, the better you’ll be prepared to make good decisions in dealing with the consequences. While you should always ask your attorney or monitoring authority for the latest information, these resources will help you gain a general understanding of Missouri DWI laws.
Smart Start Ignition Interlock: We’re Here for the Show Me State
Getting your life back together can be tough after a DWI, but Smart Start is here to help. Our knowledgeable, compassionate customer care agents have your back with 24/7 multilingual support, and our skilled technicians have the tools and skills to install your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) quickly and let you get back to your day. Finally, we strive to keep our pricing affordable to make sure that all of our customers get a great price on an Ignition Interlock Device.
Reach out today — our Program Advisors are ready to assist.
How do you get your license back in Missouri 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!Understanding Missouri DWI Requirements
Basic DWI Requirements
Generally, according to the Missouri Department of Revenue, a first-offense DWI in Missouri is punishable by a 90-day license suspension, in addition to other potential penalties like fines or even jail time. Fines and jail time depend on how your DWI is classified. Under Missouri law, a first-offense DWI is usually a Class B misdemeanor, eligible for a fine of up to $1,000 and up to six months in jail, although many drivers can avoid jail time for a first offense.
In most first-offense cases, your driver’s license will be suspended for 30 days, following a 60-day Restricted Driving Privilege, which will require you to install an Ignition Interlock Device. Some drivers may be immediately eligible for a 90-Day Restricted Driving Privilege with an IID.
If you have a previous alcohol-related traffic offense, your license will usually be revoked for one year, and if you have multiple DWIs in five years or fewer, you might lose your license for five years. Three or more offenses qualifies a driver for a ten-year license denial. Depending on your previous record and other factors, multiple DWIs may also make you eligible for a felony conviction under Missouri law, exposing you to higher fines and longer prison terms. With these convictions, some drivers may qualify for a Limited Driving Privilege, a more heavily restricted license type that also requires the installation of an IID.
Note that Missouri has both criminal and administrative penalties for drivers who get a DWI. That means you may still receive a license suspension even if your ticket is disposed of or pleaded down to a lesser charge in court. Talk to your attorney for more information about the specifics of your administrative and charges.
License Reinstatement
According to the Missouri DOR, these steps will allow you to get your license back in Missouri:
- Determine why your driver’s license was taken away. You can find this on the suspension or revocation letter you received from the Driver License Bureau, or you may order a copy of your driving record from the state.
- Look at the dates upon which you become eligible for reinstatement. If you’re eligible, use this chart to determine which forms you need to submit and fees you need to pay. If your license was taken away for more than one reason, note everything you need to do (although you’ll typically need only one SR-22 insurance form). Many drivers who get a DWI and/or refuse a chemical test will be required to complete a Substance Awareness Traffic Offender Program (SATOP) through an approved provider, so be sure to check whether you need to submit a SATOP completion form as part of your license application.
- Submit the appropriate fees and forms to the Driver License Bureau, either in person, by mail, or online. See the instructions and addresses here.
How much does an Ignition Interlock Device cost in Missouri?
Dealing with a DWI is a significant financial challenge for many people, and we’re happy to offer our affordable Interlock Device services to Missouri drivers.
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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 To learn more about the cost of Interlock services near you, see our IID cost guide for Missouri.
Why Choose Smart Start in Missouri?
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 need to buy equipment or sign long-term contracts
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Convenient 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 
Missouri 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 Missouri.
What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 4 Topics
How Does It Work?
Show 8 Topics
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 3 Topics
How Can We Help?
Show 1 Topics
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
An Ignition Interlock Device (IID), also called a car breathalyzer, is a device that measures breath alcohol content (BrAC). It is typically installed in your vehicle as part of an administrative or legal requirement after drunk driving. Learn more about Smart Start's Ignition Interlock here.
How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?
Smart Start is an approved provider in the state of Missouri and is compliant with all state Ignition Interlock requirements. We are also one of the few providers with a state-approved camera and GPS unit.
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
Pursuant to state law and the Missouri Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, any vehicle that you drive must be equipped with a state-approved Ignition Interlock Device (IID). If you are a multi-car family, you do not have to equip every vehicle with an IID; just keep in mind that you cannot drive a vehicle not equipped with an IID.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
In order to satisfy the Department of Revenue (DOR) requirements and have your license reinstated, you must install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on a vehicle for six months from your reinstatement date. You may need to borrow a vehicle from a friend or family member to satisfy this requirement.
What happens after I get my DWI?
Normally upon a plea or if you are found guilty, the Department of Revenue will suspend your driver’s license. Suspensions can range from 90 days to 10 years, depending on the circumstances.
You can apply for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) or a Limited Driving Privilege (LDP) as long as you install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID). Individuals found or pleading guilty will also have to attend a Substance Abuse Traffic Offender Program (SATOP) and apply for SR-22 insurance (high risk insurance).
In order to have your driver’s license reinstated after a suspension, you will have to have an Interlock installed (possibly with camera and GPS monitoring capability depending on circumstances) and will have to maintain the device for at least 6 months from reinstatement date.
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DWI? Third? Fourth?
There is no mandatory interlock requirement for a first offense. If you are reinstating your license after a second or subsequent DWI, you must have an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle for a six-month period from the time of reinstatement.
If you have a five-to-10-year license denial in Missouri, you can obtain a Limited Driving Privilege (LDP) with installation of an IID that includes camera and GPS tracking. The IID must remain in your vehicle for the LDP to be in effect. After the LDP expires, you will be eligible for reinstatement, and you will have to keep the IID for six months from the reinstatement date.
If you have a five-to-10-year license denial in Missouri, you can obtain a Limited Driving Privilege (LDP) with installation of an IID that includes camera and GPS tracking. The IID must remain in your vehicle for the LDP to be in effect. After the LDP expires, you will be eligible for reinstatement, and you will have to keep the IID for six months from the reinstatement date.
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
Pursuant to Missouri law and Missouri Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, all IID units in Missouri must be calibrated every 30 days.
Where can I go for Ignition Interlock service?
You may be serviced at any one of our locations nationwide.
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
State regulations mandate that the manufacturer is responsible for sending all reports electronically. You are not responsible for sending paperwork to the State authority.
What happens if I violate?
For a court order, it depends on the type and severity of the violation. If the IID is installed for a reinstatement requirement, you may receive a six-month extension on your IID.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
It will ultimately depend on the reason for installation, but below is a general list of violations pursuant to state regulations:
- Two 15-minute temporary lockouts within a 30-day period.
- Any three refusals to provide a retest sample within a 30-day period.
- Any three breath samples, after startup, above the alcohol set point within a 30-day period.
- Any attempts to circumvent or tamper with your device.
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
If the court order specifies a camera and/or GPS, then it would be required for your unit. All individuals on a 5 or 10-year denial are required to have both the camera and GPS for the duration of the denial period.
What do I need to bring to my installation appointment?
Once you have scheduled your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation with Smart Start, you will need to bring a photo ID, credit card for the installation, and proof of residency (a rent bill, for example).
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
Missouri has both judicial and administrative install orders. If you are complying with a court order, the installation notification will normally be sent electronically to the State authority through Smart Start. You can request a copy of the installation notification from the shop to take to the State authority as well. All installs complying with the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) reinstatement requirements are sent electronically to the DOR through Smart Start.
How do I know who my State authority is?
It will normally be either the court or a probation officer if the court assigns probation. If installing for reinstatement the State authority is the Department of Revenue.
What do I need for removal?
It depends on the reason for your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation. Judicial installations are court-specific: You will need to check with your attorney, probation officer or the court clerk to see about removal. For administrative installations, the Department of Revenue (DOR) will need a certificate of completion on file prior to removal.
What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 4 Topics
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
An Ignition Interlock Device (IID), also called a car breathalyzer, is a device that measures breath alcohol content (BrAC). It is typically installed in your vehicle as part of an administrative or legal requirement after drunk driving. Learn more about Smart Start's Ignition Interlock here.
How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?
Smart Start is an approved provider in the state of Missouri and is compliant with all state Ignition Interlock requirements. We are also one of the few providers with a state-approved camera and GPS unit.
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
Pursuant to state law and the Missouri Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, any vehicle that you drive must be equipped with a state-approved Ignition Interlock Device (IID). If you are a multi-car family, you do not have to equip every vehicle with an IID; just keep in mind that you cannot drive a vehicle not equipped with an IID.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
In order to satisfy the Department of Revenue (DOR) requirements and have your license reinstated, you must install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on a vehicle for six months from your reinstatement date. You may need to borrow a vehicle from a friend or family member to satisfy this requirement.
How Does It Work?
Show 8 Topics
What happens after I get my DWI?
Normally upon a plea or if you are found guilty, the Department of Revenue will suspend your driver’s license. Suspensions can range from 90 days to 10 years, depending on the circumstances.
You can apply for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) or a Limited Driving Privilege (LDP) as long as you install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID). Individuals found or pleading guilty will also have to attend a Substance Abuse Traffic Offender Program (SATOP) and apply for SR-22 insurance (high risk insurance).
In order to have your driver’s license reinstated after a suspension, you will have to have an Interlock installed (possibly with camera and GPS monitoring capability depending on circumstances) and will have to maintain the device for at least 6 months from reinstatement date.
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DWI? Third? Fourth?
There is no mandatory interlock requirement for a first offense. If you are reinstating your license after a second or subsequent DWI, you must have an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle for a six-month period from the time of reinstatement.
If you have a five-to-10-year license denial in Missouri, you can obtain a Limited Driving Privilege (LDP) with installation of an IID that includes camera and GPS tracking. The IID must remain in your vehicle for the LDP to be in effect. After the LDP expires, you will be eligible for reinstatement, and you will have to keep the IID for six months from the reinstatement date.
If you have a five-to-10-year license denial in Missouri, you can obtain a Limited Driving Privilege (LDP) with installation of an IID that includes camera and GPS tracking. The IID must remain in your vehicle for the LDP to be in effect. After the LDP expires, you will be eligible for reinstatement, and you will have to keep the IID for six months from the reinstatement date.
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
Pursuant to Missouri law and Missouri Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, all IID units in Missouri must be calibrated every 30 days.
Where can I go for Ignition Interlock service?
You may be serviced at any one of our locations nationwide.
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
State regulations mandate that the manufacturer is responsible for sending all reports electronically. You are not responsible for sending paperwork to the State authority.
What happens if I violate?
For a court order, it depends on the type and severity of the violation. If the IID is installed for a reinstatement requirement, you may receive a six-month extension on your IID.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
It will ultimately depend on the reason for installation, but below is a general list of violations pursuant to state regulations:
- Two 15-minute temporary lockouts within a 30-day period.
- Any three refusals to provide a retest sample within a 30-day period.
- Any three breath samples, after startup, above the alcohol set point within a 30-day period.
- Any attempts to circumvent or tamper with your device.
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
If the court order specifies a camera and/or GPS, then it would be required for your unit. All individuals on a 5 or 10-year denial are required to have both the camera and GPS for the duration of the denial period.
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 3 Topics
What do I need to bring to my installation appointment?
Once you have scheduled your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation with Smart Start, you will need to bring a photo ID, credit card for the installation, and proof of residency (a rent bill, for example).
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
Missouri has both judicial and administrative install orders. If you are complying with a court order, the installation notification will normally be sent electronically to the State authority through Smart Start. You can request a copy of the installation notification from the shop to take to the State authority as well. All installs complying with the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) reinstatement requirements are sent electronically to the DOR through Smart Start.
How do I know who my State authority is?
It will normally be either the court or a probation officer if the court assigns probation. If installing for reinstatement the State authority is the Department of Revenue.
How Can We Help?
Show 1 Topics
What do I need for removal?
It depends on the reason for your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation. Judicial installations are court-specific: You will need to check with your attorney, probation officer or the court clerk to see about removal. For administrative installations, the Department of Revenue (DOR) will need a certificate of completion on file prior to removal.
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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