Kentucky Ignition Interlock License

What the Ignition Interlock License Actually Is

The ignition interlock license is a restricted credential that lets you drive during a DUI-related suspension — at any hour, for any purpose — as long as any vehicle you drive has an approved ignition interlock device installed, subject to any applicable employer work exemption. It is the only restricted driving option available for standard alcohol-related DUI convictions under KRS 189A.010(1)(a), (b), (e), or (f).

This is distinct from a judicial hardship license, which is limited to narrow non-alcohol DUI categories and requires court approval. The interlock license is administered entirely through the KYTC Division of Driver Licensing and the Kentucky Ignition Interlock Program (KIIP).

Eligibility

Eligibility is based on your five-year driving record. If the record contains convictions under KRS 186.560 (certain serious traffic violations), you may be ineligible or face revocation of the interlock license after it is issued.

Drivers who refused the chemical test at the time of arrest are still eligible for the interlock license — unlike the judicial hardship license, which is unavailable to anyone who refused testing.

How to Apply

What You Need

• Form TC 94-175 (Ignition Interlock Application) — available from the KYTC website
• Proof of valid Kentucky auto liability insurance
• Current vehicle registration
• If the vehicle is registered to someone else, the registered owner must complete and sign the notarized permission statement on page two of the application
• $105 non-refundable application fee

Where to Submit

Email the completed application and supporting documents to [email protected], upload them through a verified myDrive account if you are an in-state driver, or submit them at any Driver Licensing Regional Office.

The 14-Day Window

After the KYTC approves your application, you receive a Letter of Approval. From that date, you have exactly 14 days to:

1. Drive to an approved interlock vendor and have the device installed
2. Obtain the Certificate of Installation from the vendor
3. Present the certificate at a KYTC Regional Driver Licensing Office to receive your physical restricted license

If you cannot meet the 14-day window, contact the KYTC for instructions before proceeding.

The Suspension Reduction

The interlock program trades a longer full-suspension period for a shorter one with the device. Your compliance clock does not start when the device is installed — it starts when the Regional Office physically issues your restricted interlock license.

Financial Assistance

If interlock installation or the monthly device lease ($60 to $90 per month) creates financial hardship, you can apply for fee reductions using Form TC 94-188 (KIIP Affordability Application). This requires documentation of your financial situation — federal tax returns, W-2s, or benefit statements.

Switching Vendors or Vehicles

You cannot remove the interlock device or switch vendors without prior KYTC authorization. Form TC 94-204 must be submitted and approved before any physical changes are made. Do not remove the device or switch vendors until that approval is received.

The full KIIP application process, including the affordability petition and employer work exemption forms, is covered in the Kentucky Driver's License Reinstatement Guide.

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