Intoxalock vs Smart Start: Which IID Is Better?
The two largest IID providers head-to-head. Here's how they compare on cost, convenience, and customer experience.
Our Pick
Smart Start
Wins on app quality, customer satisfaction, device reliability, and often lower installation costs. Intoxalock's larger location network is its main advantage.
At a Glance
Smart Start
Winner- Best-in-class mobile app
- Highly rated customer support
- More reliable device performance
Intoxalock
Runner-up- Largest service network
- App frequently criticized in reviews
- Mixed customer service feedback
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | Smart Start | Intoxalock |
|---|---|---|
| Service Locations | 2,200+ | 4,500+ |
| State Coverage | All 50 states | All 50 states |
| Monthly Cost | $70-90 | $70-90 |
| Installation | $0-99 | $75-150 |
| Calibration | Usually included | Usually included |
| Mobile App | Excellent | Fair |
| Customer Support | 24/7 (highly rated) | 24/7 (mixed reviews) |
| Device Reliability | Above average | Average |
| Camera Option | Available | Available |
Service Locations
Intoxalock has roughly twice as many service locations as Smart Start. However, Smart Start's locations tend to be higher-quality vetted service centers with better technician training.
Smart Start: 2,200+ locations
Curated network of trained service centers. Users consistently report shorter wait times and better technician quality.
Intoxalock: 4,500+ locations
Largest network in the country. Quality varies by location — always check reviews for your specific service center.
Tip: Check available locations in your area before choosing. The most convenient location with a quality technician matters more than total network size.
Cost Comparison
| Cost Type | Smart Start | Intoxalock |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | $0-99 | $75-150 |
| Monthly Lease | $70-90 | $70-90 |
| Calibration | Included | Included |
| Removal | $50-100 | $50-100 |
| 12-Month Estimate | $970-1,270 | $1,065-1,380 |
Edge: Smart Start — frequently offers free or reduced-cost installation promotions, making total first-year cost lower in many states.
Mobile App Experience
Both providers offer mobile apps for managing appointments, viewing test history, and receiving notifications. Smart Start's app is significantly better — consistently rated higher across both iOS and Android.
Smart Start App ✓
- Clean, intuitive interface
- Easy appointment scheduling
- Test history and device status
- Higher app store ratings (4.5+)
Intoxalock App
- View upcoming calibration appointments
- Find service locations
- Frequent complaints about bugs and crashes
- Low app store ratings (2.8-3.2)
Customer Service
Both providers offer 24/7 customer support. However, user review patterns show a clear gap in satisfaction — Smart Start customers report faster resolutions and fewer billing disputes.
Smart Start ✓
Consistently positive reviews. Users report responsive agents, quick issue resolution, and transparent billing practices.
Intoxalock
Mixed reviews. Common complaints include long hold times, unexpected billing charges, and inconsistent support quality across agents.
The Bottom Line
Choose Smart Start if:
- • App experience and transparency matter to you
- • You want consistently good customer service
- • There's a Smart Start location near you
- • You want the most reliable device day-to-day
Choose Intoxalock if:
- • Smart Start has no convenient location near you
- • You're in a rural area where Intoxalock's larger network helps
- • You get a significantly better quote from them
Other Comparisons
Sources
Last updated: March 17, 2026
Comparison based on provider websites, customer reviews, and industry analysis as of March 2026:
- • Smart Start Official Site — Mobile app features and support
- • NHTSA IID program data — State approval and coverage information
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you install an interlock device through our partners, at no additional cost to you.