Best Ignition Interlock Devices 2026
Here's how Smart Start, LifeSafer, and Intoxalock — three of the most widely used IID providers — compare on cost, coverage, and customer experience.
Best Overall
Smart Start
Best Value
LifeSafer
Largest Network
Intoxalock
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Top IID Providers Compared
Smart Start
Editor's Pick$70-90
per month
Pros
- Best-in-class mobile app (4.5+ store rating)
- Highly rated customer support
- 24/7 support availability
- Reliable device performance
- Transparent, predictable pricing
Cons
- Smaller location network than some competitors
- May have longer wait for appointments in rural areas
LifeSafer
Best Value$60-80
per month
Pros
- Lowest monthly rates
- Calibration typically included
- Established 30+ year track record
- Reliable, proven technology
Cons
- Not available in Alaska or Hawaii
- Fewer service locations
Intoxalock
Largest Network$80-100
per month
Pros
- Largest installation network in the US (3,000+ locations)
- Available in all 50 states
- Multiple device options
- Widely accepted by state DMVs
Cons
- Lower customer satisfaction than competitors
- Higher reported complaint volume
- Cancellation fees apply
- Customer service inconsistency reported
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Smart Start | LifeSafer | Intoxalock |
|---|---|---|---|
| Service Locations | 2,200+ | 1,700+ | 3,000+ |
| State Coverage | All 50 | 48 states | All 50 |
| Monthly Cost | $70-90 | $60-80 | $80-100 |
| Installation | $0-99 | $0-75 | $0-99 |
| Calibration | Included | Included | Included |
| Mobile App | ✓ (4.5+) | ✓ | ✓ |
| 24/7 Support | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Camera Option | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Customer Rating | 4.4 ★ | 4.3 ★ | 3.8 ★ |
How to Choose an IID Provider
Check Service Locations
Make sure there's a service center near your home or work. You'll need to visit monthly for calibration.
Compare Total Costs
Look beyond monthly fees. Factor in installation, calibration, and potential violation fees.
Consider Support Hours
24/7 support is valuable if you have issues early morning or late night. Both Smart Start and LifeSafer offer around-the-clock assistance.
Check State Approval
Verify the provider is approved in your state. Your court order may specify which providers you can use.
Our Recommendation
For most users, we recommend Smart Start — their mobile app, customer support, and device reliability consistently earn the highest marks in user reviews. Pricing is competitive and installation is often free or low cost.
If budget is your primary concern, LifeSafer offers the lowest monthly rates with calibration typically included. They're an excellent choice if there's a location convenient to you.
Head-to-Head Comparison
IID Cost Breakdown
Full breakdown of all costs involved
Installation Guide
What to expect during installation
Sources
Last updated: March 17, 2026
Provider information compiled from official company websites, customer reviews, and industry reports as of March 2026:
- • Smart Start Inc. — Provider information and mobile app details
- • LifeSafer — Pricing and service coverage
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.