How Much Does a DUI Cost in Arizona?

Getting a DUI in Arizona isn't just dangerous—it's expensive. Many people underestimate the financial burden that comes with a DUI conviction, often focusing only on the immediate fines. A DUI in Arizona typically costs between $7,000 to $11,000 for a first-time offense, but can exceed $20,000 depending on the circumstances.

These costs add up quickly when you consider everything involved. The expenses include court fines starting at $1,250, legal fees for representation, mandatory alcohol screening and classes costing around $500, increased insurance premiums, and potential lost wages. First-time offenders also face at least 10 consecutive days in jail, which can impact employment and create additional financial strain.

We've seen many clients surprised by these hidden costs that continue long after the initial arrest. Understanding the true price of a DUI can be eye-opening for many Arizona residents who might not realize how significantly one bad decision can impact their finances for years to come.

Key Takeaways

• A DUI in Arizona costs between $7,000-$11,000 for first offenses but can exceed $20,000 in more serious cases.
• Beyond fines, expenses include legal fees, mandatory classes, insurance increases, and potential lost income from jail time.
• First-time offenders face minimum penalties of 10 days in jail and $1,250 in fines, plus long-term financial consequences.

Overview of DUI Laws in Arizona

Arizona has some of the strictest DUI laws in the United States. These laws establish clear guidelines about legal blood alcohol concentration limits and define different types of DUI offenses that can be charged in the state.

Understanding DUI Charges

In Arizona, DUI (Driving Under the Influence) can be charged in several ways. A standard DUI occurs when a person operates a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. This is the most common charge.

An Extreme DUI is charged when a person's BAC is 0.15% or higher. This carries more severe penalties than a standard DUI.

A Super Extreme DUI occurs with a BAC of 0.20% or higher, bringing the harshest penalties of the alcohol-related DUIs.

Aggravated DUI can be charged when:

• It's a third DUI offense within 7 years
• Driving with a suspended license
• Driving with a child under 15 in the vehicle
• Refusing a BAC test with an interlock device requirement

First-time DUI offenders face minimum jail time of 10 consecutive days and fines starting at $1,250.

BAC Levels and Impaired Driving

Arizona follows a 0.08% BAC legal limit for standard DUI charges for most drivers. However, commercial drivers face a stricter limit of 0.04%.

For drivers under 21, Arizona has a zero-tolerance policy. Any detectable amount of alcohol can result in a DUI charge for underage drivers.

Law enforcement can also charge a DUI regardless of BAC level if they observe signs of impairment. This is known as an impaired to the slightest degree DUI.

Field sobriety tests and chemical tests (breath, blood, or urine) are used to determine impairment. Refusing these tests triggers Arizona's implied consent law, resulting in an automatic license suspension for 12 months for first-time refusals.

We recommend always designating a sober driver or using alternative transportation after drinking to avoid these serious consequences.

Penalties for DUI Offenses

Arizona has strict penalties for DUI offenses that increase in severity with each conviction. These penalties include jail time, fines, license suspensions, and mandatory installation of ignition interlock devices.

1st Offense Penalties

A first-time DUI conviction in Arizona comes with significant consequences. You'll face a minimum of 24 hours in jail, though this can extend to 10 days depending on circumstances.

The financial impact is substantial. Fines start at approximately $1,500 but can reach up to $2,500 when all costs are calculated. This includes a base fine plus additional surcharges and fees.

Your driver's license will be suspended for 90 days. During this time, you may be eligible for a restricted license after 30 days of the suspension period.

The court will also order:

• Mandatory alcohol screening and education
• Installation of an ignition interlock device for at least 6 months
• Possible community service

2nd Offense Penalties

Second DUI offenses within 7 years face much harsher penalties. Jail time increases to a minimum of 30 days with no eligibility for probation or suspended sentences.

Fines jump significantly to a minimum of $2,500, but total costs often exceed $3,500 when including all fees and surcharges.

License suspension becomes more severe as well:

• 1-year license suspension
• No possibility of a restricted license during this period
• Mandatory alcohol screening and treatment

The ignition interlock requirement extends to 12 months after license reinstatement. Courts may also impose community service and lengthy probation periods.

Aggravated DUI Consequences

An Aggravated DUI is classified as a felony in Arizona. This occurs when driving under the influence with a suspended license, with a child under 15 in the vehicle, or after two prior DUI convictions within 7 years.

The penalties are extremely severe:

• Prison time: Minimum 4 months in state prison
• Fines: $4,000 minimum plus surcharges
• License revocation: 3-year minimum

The court will require completion of an alcohol education program and community service. You'll also need an ignition interlock device for 24 months after license reinstatement.

A felony DUI conviction creates a permanent criminal record, affecting employment opportunities, housing applications, and voting rights. Insurance rates typically increase dramatically or policies may be canceled altogether.

Aftermath of a DUI Conviction

A DUI conviction in Arizona brings several mandatory requirements that impact your daily life and finances. The state enforces strict measures to prevent repeat offenses while adding significant costs beyond just the initial fines.

License Suspension and Reinstatement

After a DUI conviction in Arizona, your driver's license will be suspended for a minimum of 90 days for a first offense. During the first 30 days, you cannot drive at all. For the remaining 60 days, you may qualify for a restricted license for travel to work, school, or treatment programs.

For a second offense, the suspension increases to one year. Subsequent offenses can result in longer suspensions or even permanent revocation.

The MVD charges a $10 suspension fee when your license is taken away. When it's time to reinstate your license, you'll need to pay a $10 reinstatement fee plus provide proof of future financial responsibility (SR-22 insurance).

Your insurance rates will also increase significantly after a DUI conviction. Many drivers see their premiums double or triple for 3-5 years following a conviction.

Ignition Interlock Device Requirements

All DUI convictions in Arizona require installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in any vehicle you drive. For a first-time regular DUI, you must keep the IID installed for at least 12 months.

Installation costs range from $100-$200, while monthly maintenance fees average $70-$100. Over a year, this adds approximately $940-$1,400 to your total DUI expenses.

The device requires you to provide a breath sample before starting your vehicle. If alcohol is detected, the car won't start. Random retests are also required while driving.

Tampering with or attempting to circumvent the IID results in additional penalties and extended requirements. You're responsible for all IID costs, as they aren't covered by insurance or eligible for fee waivers.

Alcohol Education and Counseling

Arizona courts mandate alcohol screening, education, and treatment programs for all DUI offenders. The screening assessment typically costs around $100 and evaluates your alcohol use patterns.

Based on the screening results, you'll be required to complete either:

• A basic alcohol education course (16 hours) - approximately $200
• More intensive treatment programs - $500-$1,000+ depending on length

Classes cover topics like:

• Effects of alcohol on driving ability
• Arizona DUI laws and penalties
• Addiction awareness
• Relapse prevention strategies

You must complete these programs to regain full driving privileges. Missing sessions or failing to complete required programs will extend your license suspension period.

Many courts also require proof of program completion before closing your case. The total cost for education and counseling typically ranges from $300-$1,000 depending on the required level of intervention.

Financial Implications of DUI

Getting a DUI in Arizona comes with serious financial consequences. The costs extend far beyond just the initial fine, impacting your wallet for years to come.

Cost for a 1st and 2nd DUI Offense

For a first-time regular DUI offense in Arizona, you can expect to pay between $7,000 and $11,000 in total costs. The minimum fine starts at $1,250 but typically reaches around $1,500 with additional court costs.

If you're facing a second DUI offense, the financial burden increases significantly. Fines and penalties nearly double, and you'll face longer license suspensions and mandatory ignition interlock requirements.

Extreme or aggravated DUIs (higher BAC levels or other factors) carry even steeper costs. These can range from $3,000 to over $3,250 in fines alone, not counting other expenses.

Additional Financial Considerations

Beyond the initial fines, several other costs will impact your finances:

• Legal representation: $2,500-5,000
• DUI education and treatment programs: Around $500
• Ignition interlock device: $75-100 for installation plus $60-90 monthly
• Insurance premium increases: 50-100% for 3-5 years
• License reinstatement fees: $50-100

There are also hidden costs we often don't consider. These include lost wages from jail time or court appearances, transportation costs while your license is suspended, and potential job loss if your position requires driving.

Many people don't realize that the financial impact of a DUI can last for years, especially when considering the long-term insurance increases.