Ignition interlock in Kentucky
After a first DUI in Kentucky, you must have an ignition interlock if you want to drive while your license is suspended, per the IIHS. The interlock is a small breath-testing device connected to your car, and your program time does not start until it is fitted and your restricted license is issued, so call us to set up an install.
- Form for applying
- TC 94-175
- Highest breath alcohol reading that starts the car
- 0.02
- Fee to reinstate
- $40
- Companies installing
- 6
- Installed
- in Kentucky, unless the state approves another spot ahead of time
- Agency in charge
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet
6 interlock companies in Kentucky
| Company | From, a month | Installation | 12 months, install included | Trustpilot |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 LifeSafer | From $50 | $70 to $150 | From $670 | 4.6 of 5 |
 Guardian Interlock | From $50 | $70 to $170 | From $670 | 3.7 of 5 |
 Intoxalock | From $54.99 | Set by each service center | From $729.88install at MADD's typical range | 4.4 of 5 |
 Smart Start | From $59.99 | From $150 | From $869.88 | 4.6 of 5 |
 Low Cost Interlock | From $78.76 | $100 to $250, plus $40 set-up | From $1,085.12 | 2.9 of 5 |
 Alcohol Detection Systems (ADS) | Call for a quote | 2.4 of 5 | ||
Prices are each company's national starting price. The 12-month column adds a year of that price, the install price and any set-up fee, or MADD's typical $70 to $150 where no install price is posted.
MADD's national range: $70 to $150 to install, then $60 to $80 a month, or $790 to $1,110 for a year.
Sending in your application
To join the program, you fill out form TC 94-175. Once it is complete, you send it to the Ignition Interlock Device Section, part of the Division of Driver Licensing under the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, in Frankfort.
Has a doctor said your lung capacity is reduced? If so, include a Physician Statement (form TC 94-176) together with your application. That way the state knows about your condition right away.
If the car is not yours, its owner signs as well. By signing, they agree to bring the vehicle in for device removal within 5 business days should you exit the program.
Getting the device installed
The state requires the device to be installed in Kentucky unless it approves a different location ahead of time. A number of companies install interlocks in Kentucky: LifeSafer, Smart Start, Intoxalock, ADS, Guardian Interlock and Low Cost Interlock.
Call us and we will send your request to a Kentucky interlock company or installer, who will then set up a time to fit the device.
After installation: steps to your restricted license
Once the device is in your car, follow these steps to get back behind the wheel:
- Ask the installer for the Certificate of Installation. That paper shows the device has been fitted.
- Bring the certificate to a regional Driver Licensing office.
- Hand over the $40 reinstatement fee while you are there.
- You will receive your Restricted License, which allows driving only a vehicle with an interlock.
Your program clock only starts counting the day the state issues your restricted license, not the day the device is fitted. So visit the Regional Office shortly after installation, and your clock starts sooner.
Living with the interlock
With a breath alcohol reading above 0.02, the car will not start. That limit sits well below the standard legal one, so even one small drink can block the engine.
While driving, the device also calls for breath tests at random moments. Skipping one of these counts as a violation, unless a photo check proves the car was not being driven by you.
A violation resets your tally of violation-free days. It will not extend your program beyond the original suspension period, however.
Changing cars while on the program
Before you move to another vehicle, the state must approve a TC 94-204 form. Get that approval first so the switch is not held against you.
What an interlock costs
Costs vary by company and by how long the device stays in the car. Nationally, MADD estimates $70 to $150 to install and $60 to $80 per month after that.
Added up, that is roughly $430 to $630 over 6 months and roughly $790 to $1,110 over 12 months. Some companies list their own starting rates, like Intoxalock at $54.99 a month and Smart Start at $59.99 a month.
One short call connects you with an installer who can quote prices for Kentucky.
Wrapping up the program and taking out the device
Once your compliance period ends, the state mails you a Letter of Removal. In other words, it is the length of time the device has to stay trouble-free before you can drive freely again.
Give your interlock company the letter so it can set up the removal. Once the device is out, hand in the Certificate of Removal at a Regional Office, and you will walk out with your Non-Restricted License.