Alcohol Interlock Subsidy New Zealand – What’s Covered & Who Qualifies

If you've been sentenced to the NZ Alcohol Interlock Programme, you may qualify for a subsidy that covers the majority of your costs. Here's everything you need to know.

Call us on 0800 002 182 or contact us here to apply to get an alcohol interlock installed.

You may be eligible for the alcohol interlock subsidy if you meet both of the following criteria:

• your alcohol interlock sentence was issued on or after 1 July 2018
• you meet the financial eligibility criteria (you hold a Community Services Card or are eligible for one)

If you're unsure, call us on 0800 002 182 — we'll check your eligibility at no cost and explain the standard pricing so you can compare.

1. Check your eligibility
   Call us on 0800 002 182 or use the contact form below. We'll confirm whether you qualify based on your sentence date and financial situation.
2. Gather your proof of eligibility
   You'll need either your Community Services Card, or a completed and witnessed Statutory Declaration form DL27.
3. Apply for your alcohol interlock licence
   Present your proof to the licensing agent when applying. The subsidy is applied at this point — you won't be charged the covered fees upfront.
4. Book your installation
   Once your licence is issued, contact Smart Start to book your device installation at one of our installer locations across NZ.

If you’re granted alcohol interlock subsidy assistance, you won’t have to pay for:

• Alcohol interlock licence: $31.30
• Standard alcohol interlock device installation (one vehicle): $199.00
• Monthly servicing contribution: $50.00 per month
• Alcohol interlock device removal: $149.00
• Zero alcohol licence: $37.30 (provided you exit the programme within 15 months)

Please note that the subsidy only applies for 15 months from your alcohol interlock licence issue date!

Don't miss your services! If you miss more than one monthly service in a row, your subsidy may stop. You will need to call us immediately on 0800 002 182 if you think you might miss your monthly service.

Your situation can change, and so can your subsidy eligibility. If you now meet the financial criteria after your interlock device has been installed, you may be able to have some of your remaining costs covered. Just upload a photo of your Community Services Card or signed DL27 directly to NZTA here — give them a call on 0800 822 422 if they haven't got back to you after a couple of days.