What to Expect After a First DUI in Arizona

Do you know what to expect after a first DUI in Arizona? We understand that this is a stressful time but getting help with your DUI is fast and easy with Smart Start. We provide a reliable service during your Ignition Interlock period, but the device is one out of several circumstances that will occur because of your DUI. Let’s go over a typical timeline for a first DUI in Arizona, and what your next steps are.

A First DUI in Arizona: The Process

After your DUI arrest, you may know that your driver’s license was 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.

You have 15 days to request your hearing. If you do not request this hearing, you lose your only opportunity to contest the suspension of your driving privileges. You may have an additional hearing if you refused to take your requested chemical test at the time of your arrest. If you want to hire an attorney, make sure to do so before these hearing’s dates.

The Outcomes of a DUI First Offense

If you plead guilty, the following will occur under a first DUI in Arizona:

• Court fines and fees
• File for an SR-22 
  • After conviction, you must obtain an SR-22, which is proof of your financial responsibility to the state. The SR-22 must be maintained for a year.
• Alcohol counseling
  • You must complete the required counseling hours based on alcohol testing done by a certified counselor.
• MADD Victim Impact Panel class
  • You also must attend at least one MADD VIP or Victim Impact Panel.
• Possible 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.
• License suspension
  • The minimum license suspension period for a first DUI is 90 days. However, this period can go up to a year depending on the circumstances surrounding your case.
• Ignition Interlock
  • Install an Ignition Interlock into any vehicle you own so you can drive again. Smart Start can assist you with this as the preferred Arizona Ignition Interlock provider. You will most likely need to install an Ignition Interlock within 90 days from your arrest date.

Do you have any questions? Feel free to call our Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299. We know the Arizona DUI law and have helped many drivers get back on the road since 1992.

Need to Install an Ignition Interlock in Arizona?

Smart Start can get you back on the road fast with an affordable program and friendly customer service available 24/7/365. Schedule your installation appointment today by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our short online form.