What to Expect at an Ignition Interlock Installation Appointment

Prepare for successful long-term compliance by knowing what happens at your IID installation.

Having to blow into a device to start your car may seem like a hassle, but after a DUI conviction, an ignition interlock device (IID) can be a key to freedom. Following a court order, installing and using an IID may help you keep your driving privileges and your ability to work, socialize, and care for others.

In the United States, around 1 million impaired driving arrests occur each year. If you need to comply with IID requirements, one of your first steps is scheduling your interlock installation. With the largest nationwide certified installation network, Intoxalock can help you get started with your IID straightaway – give us a call at 888-283-5899. We also have Spanish-fluent agents ready to help.

Knowing what to expect at your ignition interlock installation appointment may help you prepare for long-term compliance. This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

General IID Installation Appointment Tips

During your first interlock appointment, a knowledgeable and certified technician installs your device and shows you how to use it.

Here are some things to think through before scheduling your initial interlock installation appointment:

• Have someone drive you to your installation appointment: It’s not advisable to drive your own vehicle to your interlock installation. If you’re under a court order after a DUI conviction, you’re not legally allowed to drive your vehicle without an IID. It’s best to have a loved one, friend, or co-worker drive you to your IID appointment.
• Ask if an installer can come to you: Mobile installation may be faster and more convenient for you. Some providers can arrange for a certified mobile technician to come to you. Intoxalock has mobile installers in 22 states, including California, Connecticut, and Illinois. Request a free, no-pressure quote here.
• Learn more about your state's IID laws: Ignition interlock state laws vary widely. Reputable ignition interlock installers can help explain what you need to know in your state to meet your legal requirements. For detailed specifics about your case, consult a qualified DUI attorney.
• Plan for the installation time: The ignition interlock installation process varies, says Steven Matos of Sober Tech in Everett, Washington, a certified Intoxalock installation service center. “On average, most appointments take between 1–2 hours. However, several factors can influence the duration, such as whether the vehicle is gas or electric, the age of the car, and the availability of technical information for that specific model. For example, installing on a 1999 Toyota Corolla may take about one hour, whereas a 2025 Tesla could take 3–4 hours due to its advanced systems and technology.” You may be able to drop off your vehicle and pick it up once the interlock installation is complete. 
• Work from a checklist so you don't forget anything: Download and refer to the Intoxalock installation checklist or make your own.

How the Interlock Installation Process Works

Ignition interlock installation requires a reputable, approved company and a certified technician. Let’s walk through what to expect at your IID installation appointment.

1. Installation

The actual ignition interlock installation time is typically a few hours. However, discuss this with your provider to understand their schedule on your actual installation day. Be aware your installation appointment may take longer than a few hours, so you might want to grab your belongings from the vehicle.

2. Demonstration

When your ignition interlock device setup is complete, the staff at most ignition interlock service centers will offer hands-on demonstrations. They will go over the equipment pieces, how to use your IID, calibration requirements, what constitutes a violation, and any other important information. Be sure to take your time on this step and ask as many questions as you need, says Matos of Sober Tech. “When customers understand the process, they feel more comfortable and capable using the device in their daily routine.”

If you’re an Intoxalock customer, you can even call us at 888-283-5899 before you drive away!

3. Education

After installation and demonstration, learning how to use your device is the next logical step. If you are an Intoxalock customer, you can use the one-button system on our device which makes it as easy as possible to get started with your new IID. If you are an independent learner, you can also choose to spend time reading your Intoxalock user guide to learn what the displays and alerts mean and what they sound like. When you choose Intoxalock, we don't want you to leave until you feel confident using your device.

4. Execution

The technician will also provide an on-site post-IID installation guide and ensure you have extra mouthpieces if needed. Technicians also usually help you practice blow patterns, says Aaron Hill with CarTronics Made in the Shade in Santa Rosa, California, a certified Intoxalock installation partner. “To avoid lockouts and make it easy for customers to start to drive again without unneeded stress, our technicians instruct people on the blow, suck, then blow sequence.” Proper blow patterns help you use the device to demonstrate your compliance so you can start your car quickly and easily each time you get in.

How to Provide a Breath Sample with an Intoxalock IID

What the Technician Does During Your IID Installation 

Now, you may be wondering what the certified technician does during your IID installation from a technological standpoint. Here’s exactly what the process looks like, step by step, so you’ll know what to expect and how it helps you on your DUI journey.

1. Assess Your Vehicle

The technician checks your vehicle to be sure it’s compatible with the IID. Most modern vehicles, including EVs, are eligible; some older models may require extra attention. Mikii Miske of AudioSonic Car Stereo in Brooklawn, New Jersey, a certified Intoxalock service center, says improperly maintained vehicles and bad vehicle batteries are the most common things they see that negatively affect installs.

2. Access the Electronics

Most vehicle’s electrical systems are under the dashboard. Your technician will safely and carefully access your car’s starter and ignition systems to link the IID. However, Miske says “poorly installed remote starters, non-functioning power seats, and broken electric tilt steering wheels can create complications during this step.”

3. Wire the Interlock

The technician will connect your IID to the vehicle by wiring it directly to the starter and ignition systems. The handheld breathalyzer connects to the IID base so all systems can communicate with one another.

4. Mount and Test

The breathalyzer will be securely fastened inside your vehicle. The technician will make sure it doesn’t interfere with driving or damage your interior.

5. Calibrate

Your technician will perform an initial calibration so your breathalyzer works reliably. Once calibration is complete, you can begin practicing how to take a successful test.

After Your Device Is Installed

Many states are interested in knowing whether IID orders are being followed. As such, you may need to submit proof that you have an appropriate device installed. At Intoxalock, we provide an installation certificate you can submit to the appropriate authority.

Your technician may also discuss scheduling calibrations with you. These calibrations do not need to be scheduled on the same day as your interlock installation. Depending on the requirements in your state, your IID may need calibration every 30-120 days. Calibration may be handled at the same service center as installation, but that’s not always the case. Discuss this with your technician before departing your IID installation appointment.

Driving Tips for First-Time Car Breathalyzer Users

Here are tips to support a smoother transition to using your IID:

• Leave a few minutes early: Build in some time to use your device without frustration.
• Avoid eating or drinking right before driving: Residue from mouthwash or energy drinks might trigger a false positive. Stop using those products or eating anything around 15 minutes before starting your car. You can also rinse your mouth with water for good measure.
• Keep spare mouthpieces in your vehicle: Your IID won’t work without one, so keeping a spare on hand can reduce delays.
• Don’t leave the vehicle running without being present: AudioSonic’s Miske says this is the hardest thing for customers to get used to, especially if they live in seasonal climates.

Handling Alerts or Lockouts 

Be prepared for random retests. Some IIDs require you to retest periodically while driving. Depending on your state law, you may have a pre-determined amount of time to complete a random retest, but you don’t need to panic if you receive a retest alert. You will likely have more than enough time to pull over to the side of the road or into a parking lot to safely comply. Refer to your user guide for state-specific information.

Lockouts occur when you fail the breath alcohol content test. The process following a lockout is different in each state, and your installation team can walk you through the next steps if this happens. 

In some cases, you may need to wait and retest later. That's true even if the lockout is due to something as innocent as mouthwash. Understanding common IID lockout causes can help you protect your driving privileges.

Find a Certified Installer Near You

Complying with a DUI or DWI can be a tricky, time-consuming situation, especially when you need to learn a new piece of technology like an ignition interlock. You can count on Intoxalock to make your IID installation quick and easy so you can get back to focusing on your life again.

Call us at 888-283-5899 to find Intoxalock locations near you if you need to comply with an IID order.