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One of the most immediate and disruptive consequences of a DUI arrest in Arizona is the suspension of your driver’s license. Whether it’s your first time being charged or you have previous offenses, losing your driving privileges can significantly affect your ability to work, manage daily responsibilities, and maintain personal independence. Understanding how long license suspensions last after a DUI in Arizona—and what factors influence the length—is essential to grasping the full scope of DUI penalties in the state.
Arizona has strict DUI laws, and license suspension is not just a possibility—it’s a guaranteed consequence. The suspension timeline begins shortly after the arrest, often before the case is even heard in court. This is because Arizona uses an administrative suspension process through the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) that operates separately from criminal court proceedings. These administrative penalties take effect even if the DUI case is eventually dismissed or reduced in court.
In this article, we’ll explore how Arizona handles DUI-related license suspensions across various offense levels. We’ll break down the timelines for first offenses, repeat offenses, and aggravated DUI cases, and clarify the difference between administrative suspensions and court-ordered revocations. Understanding these timeframes is critical for anyone looking to anticipate the practical impact of a DUI arrest in Arizona and plan for what comes next.
Administrative License Suspension After a DUI Arrest
In Arizona, license suspension can begin almost immediately following a DUI arrest due to the administrative license suspension (ALS) process. This is handled by the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) and is triggered if a driver either fails or refuses a chemical test (breath, blood, or urine). This administrative penalty is separate from any court-imposed consequences and begins regardless of a court conviction.
For a failed BAC test, where the driver is shown to have a BAC of 0.08% or higher, the MVD imposes a 90-day license suspension. The suspension typically starts 15 days after the driver receives notice, which is often at the time of arrest. The first 30 days are a complete suspension, with no driving allowed. After that, the remaining 60 days may be eligible for a restricted license, allowing travel to work, school, or treatment programs.
If a driver refuses to take a chemical test, the suspension is much longer. Arizona enforces an automatic 12-month suspension for a first refusal. This jumps to 24 months for a second refusal within 84 months (7 years). Refusing a test triggers harsher penalties to discourage avoidance of BAC verification, a tactic some might try in hopes of minimizing evidence against them.
These administrative suspensions are enforced quickly and operate separately from the court system. That means even if the DUI charge is reduced or dismissed, the suspension still applies unless it’s successfully challenged in an MVD hearing.
Court-Ordered License Suspensions and Revocations
In addition to administrative actions by the MVD, Arizona courts can impose their own license suspensions or even revocations as part of the DUI sentencing process. These penalties are layered on top of any administrative suspension and are based on the outcome of the court case.
For a first-time DUI conviction, the court may impose a suspension that aligns with the existing MVD administrative penalty—typically 90 days. However, if the offense involves aggravating circumstances, such as an extremely high BAC or an accident resulting in injury, the court may issue a longer suspension.
A second DUI offense within 7 years can result in a 1-year revocation of driving privileges. Unlike a suspension, a revocation means the license is terminated, and the driver must apply for reinstatement after the revocation period ends, often by completing additional requirements like drug and alcohol screening and possibly installing an ignition interlock device.
For a third DUI offense, or for cases qualifying as Aggravated DUI, the revocation can extend to 3 years or more, depending on the nature of the offense. These longer-term revocations emphasize Arizona’s zero-tolerance stance on repeat DUI behavior and make it more difficult for repeat offenders to regain driving privileges.
The Role of the Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
In many DUI cases in Arizona, the court or the MVD may order the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) as a condition for regaining limited driving privileges. This device requires the driver to pass a breath alcohol test before the car can start and may be required even after a suspension period ends.
For first-time DUI convictions, an IID is typically required for 12 months, but that period can sometimes be reduced to 6 months if the driver complies with all legal requirements and has no violations during the initial monitoring period. This requirement applies even if the DUI did not involve an extremely high BAC.
For Extreme DUI (BAC 0.15% or higher) and Super Extreme DUI (BAC 0.20% or higher), the IID period is longer—often 18 months or more. Repeat offenders or those convicted of Aggravated DUI may face mandatory IID use for up to 24 months after their license is reinstated.
While an IID allows individuals to drive legally, it comes with its own restrictions and financial obligations. Drivers are responsible for the installation and monthly maintenance costs, which can total several hundred dollars over the course of the requirement.
License Suspension for Underage DUI Offenders
Arizona has a zero-tolerance law for underage drivers, meaning anyone under 21 found to have any detectable alcohol in their system while operating a vehicle is subject to DUI penalties. These cases carry unique license suspension rules.
An underage DUI conviction typically results in a mandatory 2-year license suspension, even if the BAC is below 0.08%. This severe penalty reflects Arizona’s strict stance on underage drinking and driving. In some cases, a restricted license may be available after a portion of the suspension has been served, particularly if the offender is enrolled in school or treatment programs.
In addition, underage drivers may still face the standard administrative penalties if they fail or refuse a chemical test. That means the MVD’s 90-day or 12-month suspension for test failures or refusals can apply on top of the court-imposed penalties.
Arizona’s underage DUI laws are designed to send a clear message: there is no tolerance for underage drinking and driving, and the penalties—including long-term license suspensions—are structured accordingly.
License Reinstatement After a DUI in Arizona
After serving a suspension or revocation period, drivers in Arizona are not automatically granted their driving privileges back. There is a formal reinstatement process that must be completed through the Arizona MVD, and the steps vary depending on the nature and length of the penalty.
For standard suspensions, drivers may need to:
- Complete alcohol or drug screening
- Pay reinstatement fees
- Provide proof of SR-22 insurance
- Install an IID, if ordered
For revocations, especially those stemming from repeat offenses or felony DUIs, additional steps may include a court order for reinstatement or submission of compliance documentation proving successful treatment program completion.
Failure to complete any part of the reinstatement process results in continued license suspension, even if the designated time period has elapsed. It’s also important to note that reinstatement does not erase the DUI from a person’s record—criminal and administrative records remain, and future violations will be judged in that context.
Understanding the full reinstatement process helps avoid delays and ensures that individuals regain their driving privileges legally and safely.
FAQ
How long is your license suspended after a first DUI in Arizona?
For a first DUI with a failed BAC test, the license is typically suspended for 90 days, with the possibility of a restricted license after 30 days.
What happens if you refuse a breath or blood test?
Refusing a chemical test results in a 12-month suspension for a first refusal and 24 months for a second refusal within 7 years.
Do court and MVD suspensions happen at the same time?
Yes, but they are separate processes. The MVD may suspend your license before your court case concludes, and the court may issue additional suspensions upon conviction.
What is the difference between suspension and revocation?
A suspension is temporary and may end automatically or through a simple reinstatement process. A revocation requires a more extensive application and review before driving privileges can be restored.
Can I drive during my suspension period?
You may be eligible for a restricted license during part of your suspension, especially if it’s a first offense and you meet specific conditions.
Is an Ignition Interlock Device always required?
In most DUI cases, yes. Arizona mandates IID installation as a condition of reinstating driving privileges, with the duration varying by offense type.
Conclusion
Arizona’s DUI laws leave no ambiguity when it comes to license suspension. Whether it’s through administrative action by the MVD or court-imposed penalties, every DUI offense results in a loss of driving privileges. The length of the suspension—or revocation—depends on the severity of the offense, the driver’s history, and whether they refused to comply with testing protocols. Even underage drivers face harsh penalties, including multi-year suspensions.
Understanding these timelines is essential for anyone facing DUI charges in Arizona. License suspension affects employment, education, and personal life, making it one of the most impactful penalties that comes with a DUI arrest or conviction. From first-time offenders to repeat violators, the system is structured to respond with escalating consequences.
To explore the full implications of license loss and driving restrictions in DUI cases, visit the License Suspension and Driving Restrictions After a DUI page. For a complete breakdown of all Arizona DUI penalties, see the DUI Penalties and Consequences hub for more detailed information.