We know that navigating a DUI can be overwhelming. Understanding the requirements and process after an alcohol related driving offense in Connecticut is an important step to getting back on the road. We’ve put together some general information to help you get started.
Smart Start Ignition Interlock: We’re Here for the Constitution State
You might feel like your DUI in Connecticut is the end of the road — but Smart Start can help you get back behind the wheel. We offer affordable pricing on easy-to-use Ignition Interlock Devices in Connecticut, with compassionate 24/7 support available in multiple languages. Authorized skilled installers offer fast and efficient Interlock services near you, with same-day service available for many drivers.
If you’re ready to return to the road, we’re ready to help. Get in touch with Smart Start’s Program Advisors to find an IID that fits your program requirements at an affordable price.
How do you get your license back in Connecticut after a DUI?
According to the Connecticut DMV, your license can be suspended for either failing or refusing a chemical sobriety test, or for being convicted in court of a DUI. Drivers often receive both penalties concurrently, but many drivers will be eligible to apply for limited reinstatement after a set period of time.
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 Connecticut DUI Requirements
Basic DUI Requirements
Like most states, Connecticut considers any person with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of .08 or higher to be legally intoxicated. However, you can still be prosecuted and/or have your license suspended without a BAC reading. If you refuse a chemical sobriety test, your license will automatically be suspended.
The Connecticut DMV notes the following immediate consequences for a DUI arrest in Connecticut:
- Detainment and transportation to a police station
- Remaining in police lock-up until you’re bailed out
- Vehicle towed at your expense
- Held on presumption of DUI if you register a .08 or higher on a chemical test
If you’re convicted of DUI, the Connecticut General Assembly lists legal consequences for a first-time DUI including:
- A fine of $500 to $1,000
- Up to six months in jail with a mandatory minimum of two days, or up to six months suspended with probation and 100 community service hours
Penalties are often higher for a second or subsequent DUI conviction.
As previously noted, your driver’s license will typically also be suspended, either via the administrative process, the court process, or both. For a first-time DUI offense, your license will usually be suspended for 45 days, during which you can’t drive. After completing the suspension period, you may be eligible to reinstate your license under the condition that you install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID).
License Reinstatement
Connecticut requires most drivers to install an Ignition Interlock Device to restore their driving privileges after a DUI. Many drivers convicted of their first DUI will have to keep their IID installed for six months to one year, depending on their individual circumstances. If it’s not your first DUI, you might be required to keep it for longer.
The Connecticut DMV lists the following steps to take to install your IID:
- Contact an IID provider approved by the State of Connecticut that offers Ignition Interlock services near you. Smart Start is an authorized Connecticut IID provider with convenient installation centers located throughout the state.
- Pay the required DMV fees online or by mail:
- $175 license reinstatement fee
- $100 IID administration fee
When you’re ready to reinstate your license:
- Make sure you don’t have any other license-related suspensions. If you do, you’ll need to resolve these before applying.
- Once you’ve met the requirements (including installing an IID) and your suspension period is over, the DMV will mail you a letter verifying that your license is reinstated and providing you with the IID rules you’re required to follow. You may drive again, but are only allowed to drive vehicles with an IID installed.
- Be sure you have a current valid driver’s license, and exchange any other ID cards you may have received during your suspension for your previously held license.
How much does an Ignition Interlock Device cost in Connecticut?
Navigating a DUI can come with serious financial difficulties, so Smart Start strives to offer Ignition Interlock Devices that fit the budget for Connecticut 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 Depending on your financial circumstances, financial aid may be available to help you afford your IID. Ask your monitoring authority or your attorney whether you might qualify for financial assistance.
Why Choose Smart Start in Connecticut?
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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Convenient locations, 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
Connecticut 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 Connecticut.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 4 Topics
How Does It Work?
Show 10 Topics
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 3 Topics
How Can We Help?
Show 3 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?
All of Smart Start’s Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are approved by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the state of Connecticut. You can rest assured that, having met these requirements, Smart Start’s Ignition Interlock Devices are compliant with your program.
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
Yes, the state of Connecticut requires that you install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on all of your vehicles.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
In Connecticut, if you have a requirement, but you don’t own a vehicle, you can have the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed on a family member’s vehicle or a friend’s vehicle. You will need a letter of permission from the vehicle’s owner stating that you can install the IID.
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DWI? Third? Fourth?
Connecticut interlock laws require that, if you are convicted of a DUI, you serve a suspension of 45 days or until your 21st birthday, whichever is longer. After that suspension is complete, you are required to have an Ignition Interlock Device installed for one to three years, depending on prior DUI offenses. You are considered to be DUI if you register .08% or above on a blood-alcohol test. If you are under 21 years old, you are considered to be DUI if you register .02% or over.
When you are arrested for a DUI in Connecticut your license can be suspended in two different ways:
- DMV suspension: This only happens if you fail a breath test or refuse to take one. The suspension period generally begins 30 days after your DUI arrest. You will receive a Notice of Suspension from the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) dictating your period of suspension. Suspension can range from six months to six years, depending on your age, blood alcohol level (BAC) at the time of arrest, and prior record of offenses.
- Criminal Court suspension: This occurs when you are sentenced by a court after a trial or plea agreement.
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
In the state of Connecticut, you can install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) after you have completed your 45-day license suspension.
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
Connecticut state law indicates that your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) must be serviced every 30 days.
Where can I go for Ignition Interlock service?
The state of Connecticut allows you to service your Ignition Interlock Device 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 your state authority on your behalf at no additional cost to you.
How can I pay for calibration?
What happens if I violate?
If you violate in the state of Connecticut, a report is sent to the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (CTDMV) and your state authority for further action.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
In the state of Connecticut, any and all of the following may constitute a violation:
- A breath test resulting in a high breath alcohol content (BrAC)
- A failed rolling re-test
- A missed rolling re-test
- An attempt at circumvention, tampering with the IID, or an illegal start
- A missed service appointment
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
If you need a camera or GPS in the state of Connecticut, it will be added as a condition of your sentence and will be on the summary given to you by the court.
Is the Ignition Interlock Device connected to my horn and lights?
No, the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is not connected to your horn and lights during installation in Connecticut.
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 proof of residency (this can be a bill of some sort), photo identification, and payment for your installation and first month’s lease to your IID installation appointment.
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
Once your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is installed, you must bring proof of installation to the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (CTDMV) and your assigned state authority.
How do I know who my state authority is?
In Connecticut, your state authorities will be the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (CTDMV) and your assigned probation officer.
What do I need for removal?
To remove your Ignition Interlock Device in the state of Connecticut, you will need the form that the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (CTDMV) mails out to you 14 days in advance of your removal.
What do I need to install voluntarily?
To install an Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle or a family member’s vehicle voluntarily, click the chat window below, fill out our online form, or call 800-831-3299 to speak with one of our Program Advisors.
Can I get one on my motorcycle?
Motorcycle Ignition Interlock installation laws differ by state. Smart Start operates throughout the U.S. as a certified manufacturer and will work harder than other companies to provide you a seamless Interlock program that still follows your case requirements in the state of Iowa. Please call our Customer Care Center at 800-831-3299 if you have any questions.
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?
All of Smart Start’s Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are approved by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the state of Connecticut. You can rest assured that, having met these requirements, Smart Start’s Ignition Interlock Devices are compliant with your program.
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
Yes, the state of Connecticut requires that you install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on all of your vehicles.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
In Connecticut, if you have a requirement, but you don’t own a vehicle, you can have the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed on a family member’s vehicle or a friend’s vehicle. You will need a letter of permission from the vehicle’s owner stating that you can install the IID.
How Does It Work?
Show 10 Topics
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DWI? Third? Fourth?
Connecticut interlock laws require that, if you are convicted of a DUI, you serve a suspension of 45 days or until your 21st birthday, whichever is longer. After that suspension is complete, you are required to have an Ignition Interlock Device installed for one to three years, depending on prior DUI offenses. You are considered to be DUI if you register .08% or above on a blood-alcohol test. If you are under 21 years old, you are considered to be DUI if you register .02% or over.
When you are arrested for a DUI in Connecticut your license can be suspended in two different ways:
- DMV suspension: This only happens if you fail a breath test or refuse to take one. The suspension period generally begins 30 days after your DUI arrest. You will receive a Notice of Suspension from the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) dictating your period of suspension. Suspension can range from six months to six years, depending on your age, blood alcohol level (BAC) at the time of arrest, and prior record of offenses.
- Criminal Court suspension: This occurs when you are sentenced by a court after a trial or plea agreement.
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
In the state of Connecticut, you can install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) after you have completed your 45-day license suspension.
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
Connecticut state law indicates that your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) must be serviced every 30 days.
Where can I go for Ignition Interlock service?
The state of Connecticut allows you to service your Ignition Interlock Device 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 your state authority on your behalf at no additional cost to you.
How can I pay for calibration?
What happens if I violate?
If you violate in the state of Connecticut, a report is sent to the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (CTDMV) and your state authority for further action.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
In the state of Connecticut, any and all of the following may constitute a violation:
- A breath test resulting in a high breath alcohol content (BrAC)
- A failed rolling re-test
- A missed rolling re-test
- An attempt at circumvention, tampering with the IID, or an illegal start
- A missed service appointment
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
If you need a camera or GPS in the state of Connecticut, it will be added as a condition of your sentence and will be on the summary given to you by the court.
Is the Ignition Interlock Device connected to my horn and lights?
No, the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is not connected to your horn and lights during installation in Connecticut.
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 proof of residency (this can be a bill of some sort), photo identification, and payment for your installation and first month’s lease to your IID installation appointment.
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
Once your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is installed, you must bring proof of installation to the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (CTDMV) and your assigned state authority.
How do I know who my state authority is?
In Connecticut, your state authorities will be the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (CTDMV) and your assigned probation officer.
How Can We Help?
Show 3 Topics
What do I need for removal?
To remove your Ignition Interlock Device in the state of Connecticut, you will need the form that the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (CTDMV) mails out to you 14 days in advance of your removal.
What do I need to install voluntarily?
To install an Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle or a family member’s vehicle voluntarily, click the chat window below, fill out our online form, or call 800-831-3299 to speak with one of our Program Advisors.
Can I get one on my motorcycle?
Motorcycle Ignition Interlock installation laws differ by state. Smart Start operates throughout the U.S. as a certified manufacturer and will work harder than other companies to provide you a seamless Interlock program that still follows your case requirements in the state of Iowa. Please call our Customer Care Center at 800-831-3299 if you have any questions.
See What Everyone Says About Our Ignition Interlock
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September 11, 2025
"The representative was very helpful."
Angie burns.
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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.
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September 9, 2025
" She was very patient accurate & to the point!took no time to get my interlocking appointment scheduled "
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