We know that navigating a DUI can be overwhelming. Understanding the requirements and process after an alcohol related driving offense in Arizona is an important step to getting back on the road. We’ve put together some general information to help you get started.
Smart Start Ignition Interlock: We’re Here for The Grand Canyon State
The road back from an Arizona DUI charge begins with Smart Start. We’re the leading Arizona approved Ignition Interlock provider, with convenient locations across Arizona for quick installation of an Ignition Interlock Device near you.
With Smart Start, you always have a trusted advisor to help with your Ignition Interlock Device. Our multilingual customer care experts are here for you 24/7, and our trained technicians handle traditional, hybrid, and electric vehicles with ease. Contact us today for a free quote, and we’ll show you how simple it is to ride with Smart Start.
How do you get your license back in Arizona after a DUI?
Arizona’s DUI laws are some of the strictest in the US. Your driving privileges could be suspended immediately, and you’ll need to comply with the conditions imposed by the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) and/or court to get your license reinstated. Some drivers may be eligible for a Special Restricted Driver License (SIIRDL). Contact the Arizona MVD to verify your eligibility.
The following is general information, not legal advice, about the conditions you might have to complete before applying for a reinstated license.
Phase 1: Get Started
Consult Your Legal Counsel
License Hearing
Phase 2: Ignition Interlock Device
Schedule Installation
Obtain SR-22 Certificate
Phase 3: Judicial Requirements
Assessment and Education
Pay Fees and Complete Forms
Phase 4: Monitoring and Calibration
Service Appointments
Phase 5: Device Removal
Removal or Early Removal
Information as of 3/1/25.
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Disclaimer
Please note that the information in the following sections is for general informational purposes only. The materials contained herein are 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. Information may be dated and may not reflect the most current developments. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter. Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Smart Start expressly disclaims all liability regarding actions taken or not taken based on any or all content.
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Get In Touch With A Program Advisor Or Call (800) 831-3299 Now!Understanding Arizona DUI Requirements
Basic DUI Requirements
The Arizona Department of Public Safety website states a clear definition of DUI:
- BAC of .08 or higher for non-commercial drivers over 21
- BAC of .04 or higher for commercial drivers
- BAC above .00 for drivers under 21
According to the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division, a BAC of .15 or higher is considered an “Extreme DUI” in Arizona, meaning you’ll often be required to serve a jail sentence and pay heavier fines. Penalties are increased for an “Aggravated DUI,” which applies to circumstances such as getting a DUI with an already-suspended license or with a person under age 15 in the car.
License Reinstatement
According to the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division, you’ll need to complete certain conditions to get your license reinstated. These might include, but aren’t limited to:
- Installing an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on any vehicle you have access to
- The State of Arizona recommends contacting the Arizona MVD before having your interlock installed to verify that you’re currently allowed to operate a vehicle.
- Completing a substance abuse assessment with a provider approved by the State of Arizona
- Completing traffic and alcohol safety classes
- Obtaining proof of Future Financial Responsibility, either as an SR-22 insurance form or a cash deposit
- Paying all required fees
When you’re ready to apply for reinstatement of your Arizona driver’s license, you’ll need to fill out a revocation application and re-apply at an Arizona MVD location. In the meantime, you may be able to apply for a Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver’s License (SIIRDL), which could allow you to maintain driving privileges during your suspension, so long as you comply with the State’s requirements.
How much does an Ignition Interlock Device cost in Arizona?
Smart Start has an affordable Ignition Interlock Device solution for every budget and every need.
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Custom quotes in minutes from our Program Advisors -
No long-term contracts required
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No hidden monthly fees
Custom quotes in minutes from our Program Advisors For more information on the cost of an Ignition Interlock near you, see our IID cost guide for Arizona.
Why Choose Smart Start in Arizona?
You might have a DUI, but your Ignition Interlock doesn’t have to be a nightmare to use. Smart Start respects your time with our friendly, on-the-ball service, and we bring you reliable IID technology that integrates smoothly into your life. When you choose Smart Start for your Interlock Device in Arizona, you can count on:
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Affordable pricing with no hidden fees
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Over 50 convenient service locations across Arizona
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Service from skilled technicians who respect your vehicle
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24/7/365 customer support in English and Spanish
Arizona Forms
As part of your Ignition Interlock requirement, you may be required to complete specific forms. Find the forms you need right here!
Arizona Ignition Interlock Consent to Install Form
Used by those with a DUI case, ensuring that the installation of a certified Ignition Interlock Device on your motor vehicle meets the strict requirements of the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division and the law office overseeing DUI defenses and convictions.
Failure to Return Property Form
Used by Arizona drivers, especially those under DUI arrest or with a restricted license, to prevent further legal implications and ensure compliance with interlock requirements and vehicle registration laws in the United States.
Arizona FAQs
It’s important to thoroughly understand how IIDs work, and what you’ll need to do to stay in compliance with your program. Get fast answers to your most common questions about Interlocks in Arizona.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 6 Topics
How Does It Work?
Show 9 Topics
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 3 Topics
How Can We Help?
Show 3 Topics
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
An Ignition Interlock Device (IID), also called a car breathalyzer, is a device that measures breath alcohol content (BrAC). It is typically installed in your vehicle as part of an administrative or legal requirement after drunk driving. Learn more about Smart Start's Ignition Interlock here.
How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?
Smart Start is on the list of approved Ignition Interlock providers for the state of Arizona. Smart Start’s devices are also tested to meet the standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), as well as all state and federal requirements.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
In Arizona, if you have an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) requirement, but you don’t own a vehicle, you will need to borrow a vehicle from a friend or family member to fulfill your Ignition Interlock requirement. If you are installing the IID on someone else’s vehicle, the Registered Owner (RO) will need to be present at the time of the installation to complete a consent form.
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
Per Arizona state law, you will need the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on all of the vehicles that you plan on operating during your Ignition Interlock requirement. If you get pulled over driving a vehicle not equipped with an IID, you will receive a 12-month extension on the Ignition Interlock program.
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
In Arizona, your court or State authority will let you know if you need any additional features like a camera or GPS.
Does the camera watch me all the time?
No, the camera will only take a picture as you provide a breath sample for the device. There is no live video feed.
What happens after I get my DUI?
If you get your DUI in Arizona, you’ll most likely be held in the county jail for 24 hours. Then you’ll be given a court date and an arraignment. You’ll enter a plea of guilty or not guilty, then your case will go to trial. If you’re found not guilty, your case will be dismissed. If you’re found guilty, your driver’s license will be suspended for 90 days. Then, you’ll go through treatment, alcohol screening, traffic survival school, and an Ignition Interlock requirement. (These requirements vary on a case-by-case basis. For example, the defendant does not always serve time in the county jail for 24 hours and they are not always suspended for 90 days.)
What is a Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver License (SIIRDL)?
In Arizona, the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) isn’t optional if you’re convicted of a DUI; it’s a requirement. However, if you refuse to take a field sobriety or blood test, Arizona law enforces an immediate one-year license suspension due to implied consent laws. You are ineligible to drive for the first 90 days of this suspension. After this period, you may apply for a Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver License (SIIRDL), which allows you to drive to work, school, or DUI education programs, provided an IID is installed in your vehicle. This restricted license is not obligatory but is an option to retain limited driving privileges during the rest of your suspension. Following the SIIRDL period and upon DUI conviction, you must reinstate your full driving privileges through the Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) and adhere to the mandated IID installation as part of your sentence.
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DUI? Third? Fourth?
For the first DUI, if it is a regular DUI, you will still be ordered to have the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 12 months. However, after six months, the Arizona Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) will review your record and possibly allow you to remove your IID if there are no violations and you have completed the necessary classes. If your first DUI is an extreme, you will be ordered for 12 months with no possibility for an early removal. 2nd DUI and subsequent DUIs require an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 18 months. The jail time requirement is longer on subsequent DUI arrests.
How do I know who my state authority is?
In the state of Arizona, your State authority will generally be the Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) within the Arizona Department of Transportation. However, your judge, attorney, or probation officer may also request copies of your report.
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
Arizona law states that your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) needs to be serviced every 30 or 60 days, depending on the program. For example, if you are on the deferment program, you will be required to come in every 30 days. If you have the IID for 12-18 months, you have the option of coming in every 60 days after your first 90 days on the program.
Where can I go for service? Anywhere, or just within my state?
Arizona state law dictates that you can service your Ignition Interlock Device at any Smart Start service center location nationwide.
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
Smart Start will send a record of your service appointments to your State authority on your behalf at no additional cost to you.
What happens if I violate?
In the state of Arizona, your requirement may be extended for six months if your breath sample indicates a BrAC over .080 two times within the time that you are on the Ignition Interlock. If you are under 21 years of age, any violation will most likely result in a six-month extension.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
In the state of Arizona, any and all of the following may constitute as a violation:
- Tampering with the Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
- Skipping a rolling re-test
- Any test in which the breath sample has alcohol content exceeding .02
- Operating a vehicle without an Ignition Interlock Device would constitute as a violation with the state
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
In Arizona, you can install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) at any time, but you may need to wait until your Ignition Interlock requirement begins to get credit. For an answer that addresses the specifics of your individual Ignition Interlock requirement, consult your State authority or local Motor Vehicle Department (MVD).
What do I need to bring to my installation?
Once you have scheduled your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation with Smart Start, you will need to bring your photo ID and your letter from the Arizona Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) to your IID installation appointment. You will also need to bring your title and/or registration. If the vehicle is not in your name, the registered owner needs to be present at the time of installation and must complete a “Consent to Install” form for you.
What should I bring back to my State authority after my device is installed?
Once the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is installed, you’ll need to provide the Ignition Interlock Installation Notice Certificate to the Arizona Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) for your time to count toward the requirement.
How can I pay for calibration?
You can pay for calibration via cash, credit card, or debit card at the Smart Start service center at the time of service.
What do I need for removal?
In order to remove your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in the state of Arizona, you must have a new, unrestricted driver’s license or a letter of approval from the Arizona Motor Vehicle Department (MVD). If you elect to remove before the term is completed, you will be charged an early termination fee.
What do I need to install voluntarily?
To install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on your vehicle or a family member’s vehicle voluntarily, complete our online form or call Smart Start at 800.831.3299 to speak with a Program Advisor and schedule a voluntary installation appointment. Make sure to bring your photo ID, vehicle registration and proof of vehicle insurance. Check to see if your insurance offers any discounts for voluntary interlock installation—especially for children going off to college.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
Viewing 6 Topics
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
An Ignition Interlock Device (IID), also called a car breathalyzer, is a device that measures breath alcohol content (BrAC). It is typically installed in your vehicle as part of an administrative or legal requirement after drunk driving. Learn more about Smart Start's Ignition Interlock here.
How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?
Smart Start is on the list of approved Ignition Interlock providers for the state of Arizona. Smart Start’s devices are also tested to meet the standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), as well as all state and federal requirements.
What if I have a requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
In Arizona, if you have an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) requirement, but you don’t own a vehicle, you will need to borrow a vehicle from a friend or family member to fulfill your Ignition Interlock requirement. If you are installing the IID on someone else’s vehicle, the Registered Owner (RO) will need to be present at the time of the installation to complete a consent form.
Do I need the device on all of my vehicles?
Per Arizona state law, you will need the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on all of the vehicles that you plan on operating during your Ignition Interlock requirement. If you get pulled over driving a vehicle not equipped with an IID, you will receive a 12-month extension on the Ignition Interlock program.
How do I know if I need a camera/GPS/etc.?
In Arizona, your court or State authority will let you know if you need any additional features like a camera or GPS.
Does the camera watch me all the time?
No, the camera will only take a picture as you provide a breath sample for the device. There is no live video feed.
How Does It Work?
Show 9 Topics
What happens after I get my DUI?
If you get your DUI in Arizona, you’ll most likely be held in the county jail for 24 hours. Then you’ll be given a court date and an arraignment. You’ll enter a plea of guilty or not guilty, then your case will go to trial. If you’re found not guilty, your case will be dismissed. If you’re found guilty, your driver’s license will be suspended for 90 days. Then, you’ll go through treatment, alcohol screening, traffic survival school, and an Ignition Interlock requirement. (These requirements vary on a case-by-case basis. For example, the defendant does not always serve time in the county jail for 24 hours and they are not always suspended for 90 days.)
What is a Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver License (SIIRDL)?
In Arizona, the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) isn’t optional if you’re convicted of a DUI; it’s a requirement. However, if you refuse to take a field sobriety or blood test, Arizona law enforces an immediate one-year license suspension due to implied consent laws. You are ineligible to drive for the first 90 days of this suspension. After this period, you may apply for a Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver License (SIIRDL), which allows you to drive to work, school, or DUI education programs, provided an IID is installed in your vehicle. This restricted license is not obligatory but is an option to retain limited driving privileges during the rest of your suspension. Following the SIIRDL period and upon DUI conviction, you must reinstate your full driving privileges through the Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) and adhere to the mandated IID installation as part of your sentence.
How do the consequences differ for a first and second DUI? Third? Fourth?
For the first DUI, if it is a regular DUI, you will still be ordered to have the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 12 months. However, after six months, the Arizona Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) will review your record and possibly allow you to remove your IID if there are no violations and you have completed the necessary classes. If your first DUI is an extreme, you will be ordered for 12 months with no possibility for an early removal. 2nd DUI and subsequent DUIs require an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 18 months. The jail time requirement is longer on subsequent DUI arrests.
How do I know who my state authority is?
In the state of Arizona, your State authority will generally be the Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) within the Arizona Department of Transportation. However, your judge, attorney, or probation officer may also request copies of your report.
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
Arizona law states that your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) needs to be serviced every 30 or 60 days, depending on the program. For example, if you are on the deferment program, you will be required to come in every 30 days. If you have the IID for 12-18 months, you have the option of coming in every 60 days after your first 90 days on the program.
Where can I go for service? Anywhere, or just within my state?
Arizona state law dictates that you can service your Ignition Interlock Device at any Smart Start service center location nationwide.
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
Smart Start will send a record of your service appointments to your State authority on your behalf at no additional cost to you.
What happens if I violate?
In the state of Arizona, your requirement may be extended for six months if your breath sample indicates a BrAC over .080 two times within the time that you are on the Ignition Interlock. If you are under 21 years of age, any violation will most likely result in a six-month extension.
What constitutes a violation in my state?
In the state of Arizona, any and all of the following may constitute as a violation:
- Tampering with the Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
- Skipping a rolling re-test
- Any test in which the breath sample has alcohol content exceeding .02
- Operating a vehicle without an Ignition Interlock Device would constitute as a violation with the state
How Do I Get An Appointment?
Show 3 Topics
Where does installation fall based on my condition?
In Arizona, you can install the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) at any time, but you may need to wait until your Ignition Interlock requirement begins to get credit. For an answer that addresses the specifics of your individual Ignition Interlock requirement, consult your State authority or local Motor Vehicle Department (MVD).
What do I need to bring to my installation?
Once you have scheduled your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation with Smart Start, you will need to bring your photo ID and your letter from the Arizona Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) to your IID installation appointment. You will also need to bring your title and/or registration. If the vehicle is not in your name, the registered owner needs to be present at the time of installation and must complete a “Consent to Install” form for you.
What should I bring back to my State authority after my device is installed?
Once the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is installed, you’ll need to provide the Ignition Interlock Installation Notice Certificate to the Arizona Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) for your time to count toward the requirement.
How Can We Help?
Show 3 Topics
How can I pay for calibration?
You can pay for calibration via cash, credit card, or debit card at the Smart Start service center at the time of service.
What do I need for removal?
In order to remove your Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in the state of Arizona, you must have a new, unrestricted driver’s license or a letter of approval from the Arizona Motor Vehicle Department (MVD). If you elect to remove before the term is completed, you will be charged an early termination fee.
What do I need to install voluntarily?
To install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on your vehicle or a family member’s vehicle voluntarily, complete our online form or call Smart Start at 800.831.3299 to speak with a Program Advisor and schedule a voluntary installation appointment. Make sure to bring your photo ID, vehicle registration and proof of vehicle insurance. Check to see if your insurance offers any discounts for voluntary interlock installation—especially for children going off to college.
See What Everyone Says About Our Ignition Interlock
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June 21, 2025
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June 21, 2025
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Jose B.
United States
June 21, 2025
"The best customer service I've seen in awhile.
Erica was my advisor and was absolutely amazing and kind. She made the frustrating process go very smoothly and was very patient with me. I would recommend smart start to anyone who needs an interlock device because there customer service is above and beyond. She made everything right."
Jenene Stewart.
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