What to Expect After a First DUI in Arizona

Do you know what the penalties for a first DUI in Arizona are? We understand this is a stressful time but getting help with your DUI case is fast and easy with Smart Start. If you are required to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID), we provide a reliable service at an affordable price during your Ignition Interlock program. However, installing an IID is one out of several circumstances that may occur because of your DUI charge. Let’s go over the Arizona DUI laws and requirements, a typical timeline for getting a first time DUI in Arizona, and what your next steps are.

Understanding Arizona DUI Laws

Arizona law maintains a tough stance on drunk driving and other DUI offenses. Operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of 0.08% or higher is deemed illegal. For commercial vehicle drivers, the legal limit is reduced to 0.04%. A first time DUI offense in Arizona carries both criminal penalties and administrative consequences.

A First Offense DUI in Arizona: The Process

During your DUI arrest, your driver’s license may be confiscated at the police station. If your DUI case wasn’t extreme or included aggravating circumstances, the officer will give you a temporary driver’s license that is valid until your administrative hearing date, should you choose to contest your case. At this point, the police will notify the Arizona Motor Vehicle Department or MVD of your arrest, which starts your license suspension period.

According to the Arizona Department of Transportation website, you have 15 days to request your hearing. If you do not request this hearing, you lose your only opportunity to contest your DUI penalties, including the suspension of your driving privileges. You may have an additional hearing if you refused to take your requested alcohol screening and chemical test at the time of your arrest. If you want to hire an DUI attorney, you will need to do so before these hearing dates.

Criminal Penalties for First DUI Offense:

When convicted of a regular DUI charge  in Arizona without a prior DUI conviction, you may face penalties from the following categories:

Jail Time: Those convicted of a first-time DUI can potentially serve up to 10 consecutive days in jail. However, alternative punishments like home detention or work release may be available depending on the circumstances.

Fines: Fines for a standard DUI offense range from $250 to $2,500, not including court costs and associated fees.

Suspension of Driving Privileges: A DUI conviction may result in the suspension of your driver’s license for up to 90 days. However, you may qualify for a restricted driving permit, enabling travel to work, school, and other necessary destinations.

Ignition Interlock Device (IID): In certain cases, the court may require you to install an IID in your vehicle. The IID measures your Breath Alcohol Concentration (BrAC) and prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected. The duration of IID usage varies depending on the offense.

Community Service: For a first-time DUI, you may be required to complete a specific number of community service hours as part of their sentence.

Convicted of a DUI in Arizona: The Next Steps

If you plead guilty, these are the general next steps for a first DUI penalty in Arizona:

1. Pay any court fines and fees.
   • As we said earlier, fines for a first offense DUI range from $250 to $2,500, not including court costs and associated fees.
2. File for an SR-22 Insurance
   • After conviction, you must obtain an SR-22 insurance, which is proof of your financial responsibility to the state. The SR-22 insurance must be maintained for a year.
3. Receive alcohol counseling.
   • You may be required to complete the required counseling hours based on alcohol testing done by a certified counselor.
4. Attend a MADD Victim Impact Panel class.
   • You may be required to attend at least one Mothers Against Drunk Driving Victim Impact Panel.
5. Serve any jail-time.
   • The minimum jail sentence for a first DUI is 10 consecutive days. Some of these days can be suspended by the court if you complete an approved alcohol or drug screening assessment.
6. Install an Ignition Interlock Device.
   • Install an Ignition Interlock into any vehicle you own so you can drive again. Smart Start can assist you with this as a preferred Arizona Ignition Interlock provider. You will most likely need to install an Ignition Interlock within 90 days from your arrest date.
7. Apply for a Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver’s License (SIIRDL).
   • A SIIRDL allows you to drive to and from work, school, and home only with an Ignition Interlock Device. Keep in mind that the period with your SIIRDL does not count toward any other required period with an Ignition Interlock. Once you complete the SIIRDL period, you may or may not be required to apply for an Ignition Interlock license.

Smart Start’s Ignition Interlock: A Reliable Solution

Smart Start Ignition Interlock offers a proven solution to help individuals regain their driving privileges following a felony DUI conviction. Our Ignition Interlock Devices provide accurate and reliable BAC measurements, enabling you to demonstrate your commitment to sober driving. We have the easiest Interlock Device to use! Here’s how our system works:

Convenient Installation: Our certified technicians will handle the Ignition Interlock device installation in your vehicle quickly and efficiently. We have a widespread network of service centers in Arizona for your convenience.

Accurate BrAC Monitoring: The Smart Start Ignition Interlock Device measures your BrAC level before allowing your vehicle to start. Our devices utilize state-of-the-art technology to ensure precise and reliable results.

User-Friendly Interface: Our devices feature a simple and intuitive interface, making them easy to use and operate. You can trust our devices to deliver accurate readings without any hassle.

Compliance Reporting: Smart Start Ignition Interlock devices generate comprehensive reports, allowing you to demonstrate your compliance with court-mandated requirements. These reports can be easily accessed by your attorney or probation officer when needed to ensure you are following DUI law.

Exceptional Support: Our dedicated customer support team is available 24/7 to address any questions or concerns you may have. We are committed to assisting you throughout your Ignition Interlock program, ensuring a smooth and successful experience.

Now you know what happens when you get a DUI in AZ. Do you have any questions? Feel free to call our Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299. We know Arizona DUI laws and have helped more than 1 million drivers get back on the road since 1992.

The information in this blog is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to and should not be relied upon or construed as a legal opinion or legal advice or to address all circumstances that might arise. Individuals and entities referencing this page are encouraged to consult with their own legal counsel and their state authority. Some information may be dated and may not reflect the most current legal developments. Smart Start expressly disclaims all liability regarding actions taken or not taken based on any or all content.