Arizona DUI Penalties
Arizona is widely regarded as having some of the toughest DUI penalties in the nation. Even a first offense carries mandatory jail time. Understanding the potential consequences helps you appreciate the importance of a strong defense.
Penalty Comparison Chart
| Charge | Jail Time | Fines | License | Interlock |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular DUI (1st) | Min 10 days (9 suspended) | ~$1,250+ | 90 day suspension | 12 months |
| Regular DUI (2nd) | Min 90 days | ~$3,500+ | 12 month revocation | 12 months |
| Extreme DUI (1st) | Min 30 days consecutive | ~$2,500+ | 90 day suspension | 12 months |
| Super Extreme DUI (1st) | Min 45 days consecutive | ~$3,200+ | 90 day suspension | 18 months |
| Aggravated DUI (Felony) | Min 4 months prison | ~$4,000+ | 3 year revocation | 24+ months |
Additional Consequences
Beyond the criminal penalties, a DUI conviction carries numerous collateral consequences:
- Insurance Rate Increases — Your auto insurance rates will significantly increase, often doubling or tripling for several years.
- SR-22 Requirement — You will be required to maintain SR-22 insurance (proof of financial responsibility) for 3 years.
- Criminal Record — A DUI conviction will appear on background checks for employment, housing, and professional licensing.
- Professional Licensing — Many professional licenses (law, medicine, nursing, teaching, real estate) can be affected by a DUI conviction.
- Employment Impact — Jail time, court appearances, and a criminal record can all impact your employment.
- Travel Restrictions — Some countries (notably Canada) may deny entry to individuals with DUI convictions.
- Alcohol Screening and Treatment — Mandatory alcohol screening and treatment programs at your expense.
- Community Service — Courts often require community service hours.
- Ignition Interlock Device — The cost of installing and maintaining an interlock device is borne by the defendant ($70-100/month).
Total Cost of a DUI
When you add up fines, surcharges, jail costs, insurance increases, interlock costs, attorney fees, treatment programs, and lost wages, the total cost of a first-offense DUI in Arizona can easily exceed $10,000-$15,000. This underscores the importance of mounting a vigorous defense.