A DUI charge can turn your life upside down.
Whether it happened unexpectedly or after going through a really difficult time, it’s completely normal to be scared, humiliated, and confused about what the future holds.
If you’re reading this, you’re already taking a brave step forward, and that is important!
In 2025, Arizona DUI laws have once again seen major revisions, and it’s crucial to understand what that means for you or a loved one.
This guide will walk you through the changes, penalties, and next steps in a clear, compassionate, and hopeful manner.
You don’t have to face this by yourself, and you do have options.
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Overview of Arizona DUI Laws in 2025
Arizona has some of the toughest DUI laws in the country.1
If you’re driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher in Arizona, you’re legally impaired.
Here are some of the basics you need to know:
- Legal BAC Limit: 0.08% for drivers 21 and over
- Zero Tolerance for Minors: Any alcohol in your system if you’re under 21 is against the law
- Implied Consent: If you refuse a breathalyzer or blood test, your license can be suspended automatically
- Standard DUI: BAC between 0.08% and 0.149%
- Extreme DUI: BAC between 0.15% and 0.199%
- Super Extreme DUI: BAC of 0.20% or higher
- Aggravated DUI: Includes repeat offenses, DUI with a suspended license, or driving with a child in the car
Each type comes with its own consequences, which get more serious depending on your situation.
Recent Changes to Arizona DUI Laws
Arizona’s DUI laws aren’t static—they evolve every year.
Here’s what’s new in 2025:
- Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs): Now required for everyone convicted of a DUI, even first-time offenders. You’ll need to use one for at least 6 months.2
- Longer DUI Classes: Courts are ordering longer education and treatment programs, especially if you’ve had prior offenses.
- Remote Monitoring: In some cases, individuals are assigned mobile breathalyzers or alcohol monitoring devices.
- More Police Training: Officers are getting better at spotting drug-impaired driving, not just alcohol.
These changes are meant to keep the roads safer, but they also mean you need to be more informed than ever.
DUI Penalties in Arizona
Here’s what you might face if you’re charged with a DUI in 2025:
First-Time Standard DUI (BAC 0.08–0.149%)
- Jail: Minimum 10 consecutive days
- Fines/Fees: Around $1,500, including assessments
- License Suspension: 90 days
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID): 12 months
Education: Alcohol screening, 16 hours of classes
Second DUI (within 7 years)
- Jail: 30 to 90 days
Fines/Fees: Up to $3,000
License Suspension: 1 year
IID: 12 months minimum
Education/Treatment: Mandatory
Extreme DUI (BAC 0.15–0.199%)
- Jail: Minimum 30 consecutive days
- Fines/Fees: Around $2,500 or more
- IID: 12 months
- Education/Treatment: Required
Super Extreme DUI (BAC 0.20%+)
- Jail: Minimum 45 consecutive days
- Fines/Fees: Minimum $2,750
- IID: 18 months
Aggravated DUI (Felony)
- Prison: Minimum 4 months, up to 2 years
- Fines/Fees: Minimum $4,000
- License Revocation: 1 year
- IID: 24 months after reinstatement
- Probation: Up to 10 years
- Treatment: Extended programs required
Arrested for DUI in Arizona?
Cornerstone offers a lifeline with certified DUI classes and screenings—take the first step towards putting this behind you.
License Suspension and Reinstatement
Your license can be suspended by the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD), the court, or both.
Here’s what to expect:
- First offense: 90-day suspension
- Second offense: 1-year suspension
- Aggravated DUI: 1 year or more
- Refusing a breathalyzer test: 1-year suspension (even without a DUI conviction)
To get your license back, you’ll likely need to:
- Complete DUI screening and classes
- Install an ignition interlock device
- Provide proof of SR-22 insurance
- Pay all fines and reinstatement fees
It can be a process, but with the right help, you can get through it.
Quick Tip
Stay Ahead of DUI Law Changes
Arizona DUI laws can shift every year. Staying informed and completing your classes on time can keep you out of deeper legal trouble. Talk to your lawyer or treatment provider to make sure you’re on track.
DUI Classes and Legal Requirements
In most cases, the court will require you to go through alcohol screening, DUI education classes, and sometimes treatment.
These aren’t optional—they’re part of the steps you need to take to regain your license and stay on the right side of the law.
At Cornerstone Healing Center, we offer court-approved DUI classes online.
That means you can complete your requirements from home, on your schedule.
Whether you need a short education course or a longer treatment plan, we make it as easy and supportive as possible to get back on track.
What to Do If You’re Charged with a DUI in Arizona
Getting charged with a DUI is a tough moment, but you don’t have to go through it alone.
Here are some key points you should keep in mind:
- Take a deep breath: It’s serious, but manageable.
- Talk to a lawyer: A good DUI attorney can help protect your rights and guide you through court.
- Show up: Don’t miss court dates or appointments.
- Do what’s required: That includes classes, treatment, and any community service.
- Ask for support: Programs like ours help you meet requirements and move forward with real tools for change.
Taking responsibility early can make a big difference in how things turn out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal BAC limit in Arizona?
Arizona law sets the legal BAC limit at 0.08% for most drivers. For commercial drivers, it’s 0.04%, and for those under 21, Arizona enforces a zero-tolerance policy—any alcohol detected can lead to a DUI charge.
How long does a DUI stay on your record in Arizona?
A DUI conviction stays on your record permanently. While it may be eligible for set-aside in some cases, it will still appear in background checks. For sentencing purposes, prior DUIs are considered within a 7-year period.
Can you refuse a breathalyzer test in Arizona?
Yes, but refusing comes with automatic penalties. Under Arizona’s implied consent law, your license will be suspended for 12 months for a first refusal and 24 months for a second. The refusal can also be used as evidence in court.
What are the penalties for an aggravated DUI in Arizona?
Aggravated DUI is a felony. Penalties include at least 4 months in prison, fines starting at $4,000, a 1-year license revocation, mandatory treatment, a 24-month ignition interlock requirement, and long-term probation.
Key Takeaways
- Key Takeaways
- Arizona DUI laws are strict and change often.
- Penalties include jail or prison, fines, license suspension, and treatment
- Implied consent means refusing a test brings automatic penalties
- DUI classes and education are mandatory for reinstatement
- Cornerstone offers flexible, court-approved DUI programs online
Complete Your DUI Requirements with Cornerstone
Arizona’s DUI laws are tough, and they keep evolving, but that doesn’t mean your life is over.
Getting charged with a DUI can shake your confidence, your plans, and your sense of direction.
But here’s the truth—you still have the power to take control and start again.
The key is knowing what steps to take and following through with the right support behind you.
At Cornerstone Healing Center, we understand how overwhelming this process can feel.
We provide flexible, judgment-free DUI services that are court-approved, along with support to help you meet court requirements and make meaningful changes.
If you are struggling with alcohol addiction and looking for alcohol treatment options, we can help you with that, too.
Whether this is your first DUI or not, you deserve a second chance—and we’re here to help you earn it.
