Texas Ignition Interlock Requirements (2026): Costs & Approved Providers
If a Texas court has ordered an interlock — or you need one for an occupational license — the fastest way forward is to call a state-approved provider and book installation. Here’s what you need, what it costs, and who to call.
| Required for a first DWI? | Only if BAC 0.15+, a child passenger was present, or the court orders it — many courts do |
| Always required for | Second or later DWI; BAC 0.15+; child passenger; intoxication assault or manslaughter; occupational license |
| Typical duration | 6 months to 2 years, set by the court |
| Deadline to install | Typically within 30 days of your order — confirm with your provider or attorney |
| Who regulates devices | Texas DPS — Ignition Interlock Device Program |
| Governing law | Transp. Code §521.246; CCP art. 42A.408; CCP art. 17.441; Penal Code §49.09 |
| Offense term | DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) |
Do you need an interlock in Texas?
Texas is not an all-offender state, but the interlock net is wider than most people expect. A device is mandatory for a second or later DWI, a BAC of 0.15 or higher, a child passenger in the vehicle, or an intoxication assault or manslaughter charge. For a standard first DWI under 0.15, it’s up to the judge — but many counties, including Harris County (Houston), routinely order one. Since HB 3582 (2019), deferred adjudication for a first DWI generally requires an interlock as a condition. It’s also required for an occupational license if your regular license is suspended.
Texas-approved providers
All six providers below are on the Texas DPS certified-device list (verified December 2025). Call for a free quote — pricing and service-center locations vary by city.
| Provider | Monthly est. | Coverage | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intoxalock | $60–100 | Statewide | 888-283-5899 |
| Smart Start | $70–100 | Statewide | 800-831-3299 |
| LifeSafer | $65–95 | Statewide | 800-634-3077 |
| Guardian Interlock | $65–95 | Statewide | 800-499-0994 |
| RoadGuard (Dräger) | $65–95 | Statewide | 833-545-0368 |
| ALCOLOCK | $60–90 | Statewide | 866-700-9300 |
Monthly estimates are market ranges — your exact price depends on your vehicle and location. Confirm your provider’s certification on the DPS certified-device list before you sign. An unapproved vendor won’t satisfy your court order.
What an interlock costs in Texas
| Installation (one time) | $70–150 |
| Monthly lease + monitoring | $60–100 |
| Calibration (every 30–60 days) | Often included in monthly fee |
| Removal | $50–100 |
| State license restriction fee | $50–150 (paid to DPS) |
Over a typical 12-month term, expect roughly $1,000–1,500 all-in. Texas courts may reduce or waive fees for documented financial hardship — ask your provider or attorney. Estimate your exact cost →
How to get installed — 5 steps
- Have your court order or occupational-license notice ready before you call.
- Call a Texas-approved provider above and book an appointment — most can get you in the same week.
- Bring your vehicle, court order, and ID. Installation takes 60–90 minutes. Install within 30 days of your order.
- File your proof of installation with the court or DPS as instructed in your order.
- Keep every calibration appointment. Missed service visits are reported to DPS and can extend your term.
Violations that extend your term
Failed breath tests, missed calibrations, tampering, and missed rolling retests are all reported to DPS and can add time to your requirement — often 30 days per failed test, more for tampering. Some failures are false positives from mouthwash, certain foods, or acid reflux. If a false positive occurs, document it immediately and call your provider the same day.