How it Works

Call Smart Start on 0800 002 182 while you're in the disqualification period. We'll set you up in the programme, find out if you're eligible for a subsidy, and help with any other questions you might have.

We'll text and email you with the next step you need to take to ensure you get an interlock installed as soon as you can.

If you'd prefer not to call, fill in this form to get started!

At the end of your disqualification period, it's time to apply for your alcohol interlock licence. You can apply for an alcohol interlock licence at any driver licensing agent. Go to www.nzta.govt.nz/agent to find an agent in your area.

Details to have ready for Smart Start

Once you've obtained your alcohol interlock licence, email a copy of it to info@smartstartinterlocks.co.nz. If you don't have email you can send us a photo using Facebook.

If you're eligible for a subsidy, the cost of the licence is free. You'll also need to send us a copy of the $0.00 receipt to prove that you're subsidised.

Smart Start will then send you a lease agreement to sign before arranging a time and date with your nearest Service Centre to install the interlock device.

What to email Smart Start

Once Smart Start has confirmed your install, take your vehicle to the Service Centre. Allow half a day for the installation and training on how to use the interlock device. You'll need to pay an installation fee and the first month's lease to the installer at this time.

What to take for the install

Each month you'll be required to take your vehicle to a Smart Start Service Centre for a monthly service. A monthly service takes 10 - 15 minutes. Payment is to be made to the service centre at the time of your service.

What's required for a monthly service

The interlock programme has two main pricing structures; Standard and Subsidy. If you qualify for the alcohol interlock subsidy, the NZ Transport Agency will cover a portion of the interlock costs.

You should be eligible for the alcohol interlock subsidy if:

Call us on 0800 002 182 and we’ll walk you through the standard costs.

We’ll help you find out if you’re eligible for a subsidy and we can help you get the subsidy!

If you’ve been through an Alcohol & Other Drug Treatment Court, you may be fully funded by the Department of Corrections. Call us on 0800 002 182 to enquire.

Click this link to find out more about the alcohol interlock subsidy.

Has your financial situation changed since your alcohol interlock device was installed? You may now be eligible for the Waka Kotahi NZTA Alcohol Interlock Subsidy to help cover your remaining costs.

Give us a call on 0800 002 182 and we can answer any questions you have about how to apply for the subsidy after you interlock has been installed.

If you've got questions about the interlock subsidy, we will be able to help! 😊

Congratulations on reaching the final stages of your alcohol interlock programme!

Your eligibility to exit the programme is based on several key factors, including:

• The date your alcohol interlock licence was issued
• The date your interlock device was installed
• Your violation history in the final six months of the programme

If you have any questions about the steps below, or your eligibility to exit the programme, please give our team a call on 0800 002 182.

Step 1: Get Your Final Interlock Service

Before you can apply to exit, you must complete a final service to download the data from your interlock.

Make sure you go for your final service after you've had your alcohol interlock licence, and the interlock, for 12 months.

Step 2: Apply to exit the interlock programme

• Apply online here; www.nzta.govt.nz/driver-licences/driving-offences-and-penalties/alcohol-sentencing/alcohol-interlock-programme/exit-aid.  
• Or, call NZTA on their free phone: 0800 822 422

Step 3: Get your Zero Alcohol Licence

Personal breathalysers are a must have!

We strongly recommend you get a personal breathalyser if you haven't already got one.

After your interlock is removed, you'll be subject to a zero alcohol licence for three years before you get back to a normal licence again. This means that you cannot drive with ANY level of alcohol in your system. If you were caught driving with any alcohol, you'd be back to square one of the interlock programme.

We have two excellent breathalyser options, the Lifeloc FC10 (premium police-grade option) and the AF-35C (quality personal breathalyser). Both options come with a 12-month warranty and they are both great breathalysers. You will probably be able o find lots of cheap breathalysers online, but you will get what you pay for. It's unlikely that they will be accurate and they won't last very long. Often they can't even be calibrated for accuracy.
Think of it this way! A single accurate reading which prevents you from driving could save you thousands of dollars.

You can learn more and compare our different breathalyser options here: https://smartstartinterlocks.co.nz/personal-breathalyser/