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When it comes to DUI penalties in Arizona, the financial consequences are just as serious as the legal ones. Many people focus on the possibility of jail time, license suspension, or criminal records—but the reality is that the cost of a DUI in Arizona can be crushing. From court-imposed fines to hidden expenses like insurance hikes and interlock devices, even a first-time DUI can leave you paying thousands of dollars out of pocket.
So how much are DUI fines in Arizona? The answer depends on several factors: your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), whether it’s your first offense, whether there are aggravating elements, and whether you’re facing misdemeanor or felony charges. Arizona has one of the most aggressive DUI enforcement systems in the U.S., with mandatory minimum fines, non-negotiable assessments, and a long list of additional financial penalties.
In this detailed guide, we break down the full cost of a DUI in Arizona—including base fines, surcharges, assessments, and extra fees—so you understand exactly how much you may have to pay, and why.
Standard DUI Fines for First-Time Offenders
In Arizona, a standard DUI is typically charged when a driver’s BAC is 0.08% to 0.149%. Even though this is the most common DUI charge, the fines are anything but light. For first-time offenders, the court must impose a set of mandatory financial penalties, and these cannot be reduced, even by the judge.
Here’s what a first-time standard DUI looks like financially:
- Base fine: $250
- Arizona DUI assessment: $500
- State surcharge: ~$500
- Court costs and administrative fees: $200 to $300 (varies by county)
Total minimum fines and court costs: $1,200 to $1,500
That’s just the beginning. These numbers don’t reflect any of the non-court-related costs—like DUI education classes, MVD fees, or long-term insurance increases. And if you’re convicted, you’re also subject to mandatory license suspension, which creates its own set of expenses and challenges.
Arizona law requires offenders to pay every cent of these mandatory fines. There is no option for the court to waive or lower them, regardless of your income, hardship, or circumstances.
Extreme and Super Extreme DUI Fines in Arizona
Arizona takes BAC levels seriously. If your BAC was 0.15% or higher, you’re looking at either an Extreme DUI or Super Extreme DUI, each carrying substantially higher fines and penalties.
For a first-time Extreme DUI (BAC between 0.15% and 0.199%):
- Base fine: $250
- Additional DUI assessment: $1,000
- Surcharges and court fees: $1,000+
- Court processing and jail fees: ~$250
Total estimated financial penalties: $2,500 to $3,000
For a first-time Super Extreme DUI (BAC of 0.20% or higher):
- Base fine: $500
- Additional DUI assessment: $1,250
- Court surcharges: $1,000+
- Other court costs: ~$300
Total estimated fines and fees: $3,000 to $4,000
These enhanced DUI charges also come with longer mandatory jail sentences, extended ignition interlock requirements, and stricter license restrictions, all of which increase total out-of-pocket expenses.
Second DUI Offense and Repeat Offender Fines
Repeat offenses bring higher financial penalties and tougher consequences. Arizona courts do not treat second-time offenders lightly, and fines for a second standard DUI can easily double.
For a second standard DUI:
- Base fine: $500
- Repeat offender assessments: $1,250+
- Court surcharges and fees: $1,000+
- Alcohol screening and treatment: $300–$500
Total estimated cost: $3,000 to $4,000+
For a second Extreme or Super Extreme DUI, fines climb even higher:
- Fines and assessments: $4,000 to $5,000+
- Longer interlock installation periods
- Probation and supervision costs
- Jail time fees, which increase with sentence length
Repeat offenses also carry extended SR-22 insurance requirements, which can raise your premiums by $1,000 or more per year for up to 3 years.
Arizona’s Aggravated DUI Fines (Felony Charges)
Aggravated DUI in Arizona is a felony and applies to situations like:
- Driving under the influence with a suspended or revoked license
- Committing a DUI with a child under 15 in the vehicle
- Getting a third DUI within 7 years
- Refusing to install a court-ordered ignition interlock device
Felony DUIs result in much higher fines and more severe financial consequences:
- Base fine: $750
- Felony DUI assessments: $1,500+
- Court and probation fees: $1,000+
- Restitution (if required): Variable
- Alcohol education and treatment: $300–$1,000
- Felony conviction surcharge: ~$500
Total estimated fines and penalties: $5,000 to $7,500 or more
In addition to fines, a felony DUI in Arizona can lead to:
- Longer license suspension periods
- Mandatory prison time
- Higher insurance premiums
- Loss of civil rights and job restrictions
The financial impact of a felony DUI often extends far beyond the courtroom, affecting housing, employment, and your long-term financial health.
Indirect and Ongoing DUI-Related Costs
Many DUI defendants are surprised to learn that the majority of the cost doesn’t come from the fine itself—but from everything else that comes with it. Here’s a breakdown of typical hidden and ongoing expenses associated with a DUI in Arizona:
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID): $1,200–$1,500 per year
- Towing and vehicle impound fees: $200–$500
- Alcohol education/treatment classes: $300–$1,000
- License reinstatement fees: ~$50–$100
- SR-22 insurance (3 years): $3,000–$5,000+ total
- Probation fees and compliance monitoring: $600+ per year
- Time off work/lost wages: Variable
These costs apply whether you’re facing a first-time DUI or a repeat offense. Add them to your court fines, and it’s easy to see how a DUI in Arizona can cost $7,000 to $15,000 or more over time.
Long-Term Financial Impact of a DUI
The total financial impact of a DUI in Arizona doesn’t stop once you’ve paid your fines. A conviction follows you into the future—affecting your insurance, employability, and finances for years.
Insurance Increases
Auto insurance providers drastically raise premiums after a DUI. Even with clean driving going forward, you could face a 50–100% increase in your rate, and most companies require SR-22 high-risk coverage, which can cost thousands.
Employment Consequences
Many employers conduct background checks. A DUI on your record—especially a felony—can disqualify you from positions involving driving, security, or even professional licensing.
Travel Restrictions
Some countries (like Canada) restrict entry for individuals with DUI convictions. This can affect personal and business travel, adding another layer of long-term cost.
A DUI conviction in Arizona is not just a short-term fine—it’s a long-term financial burden.
FAQ
What is the minimum fine for a first-time DUI in Arizona?
About $1,200 to $1,500, including mandatory assessments and surcharges.
How much does an Extreme DUI cost?
Expect to pay $2,500 to $3,500+, depending on the jurisdiction and BAC level.
Are DUI fines higher for repeat offenders?
Yes. Fines can exceed $4,000 for second offenses and go higher with added penalties.
What’s the total cost of a felony DUI?
Aggravated DUIs can cost $5,000 to $7,500 or more, plus long-term financial and personal consequences.
Does the judge have the power to reduce DUI fines?
No. Arizona imposes mandatory minimum fines that cannot be lowered by the court.
How much does SR-22 insurance cost after a DUI?
Typically $1,000 to $2,000 per year, required for 3 years.
Can a DUI conviction affect my job or travel plans?
Yes. A DUI can impact employment, licensing, and travel eligibility in certain countries.
Conclusion
In Arizona, the financial price of a DUI is steep—and it only increases with the severity of the offense. From minimum fines for standard DUIs to thousands in penalties for Extreme or Aggravated DUI charges, the court system ensures that the cost of impaired driving hits hard. And beyond the courtroom, additional costs like interlock devices, insurance premiums, and alcohol education pile on, pushing the total impact even higher.
Understanding the full range of financial consequences is critical for anyone facing DUI charges in Arizona. The true cost goes far beyond the base fine—it’s a combination of mandatory penalties, hidden expenses, and long-term fallout that can impact your finances for years.
To get the full picture of Arizona DUI penalties, visit Common DUI Fines and Financial Penalties. For broader legal context, check out our comprehensive guide to DUI Penalties and Consequences.