How Do I Get My License Back After a DUI in Arizona?
Discussion of How Do I Get My License Back After a DUI in Arizona?
Seeking to reinstate your license after a DUI in Arizona? Follow these essential steps to regain your driving privileges. First, ensure you’ve completed any required alcohol or drug education, treatment, or screening programs. Next, be prepared to pay a $10 reinstatement fee, as well as the appropriate application fee. If the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) does not have a digital photo of you on file, you will need to apply in person at a local MVD office. However, if a digital photo is available, you have the option to pay the fees either by mail or online at AZMVDNow.gov. Lastly, don’t forget to obtain and maintain the necessary SR-22 insurance for the required period, as mandated by Arizona law.
By carefully following these steps, you’ll be back on the road in no time.
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Arizona, one of the most pressing concerns is likely to be the process of getting your driver’s license back. In this blog, we’ll discuss the steps you need to take to reinstate your driving privileges following a DUI suspension and how the dedicated criminal defense team at Chelle Law can assist you in navigating the process. How long does a DUI affect your insurance in Arizona?
Understanding License Suspension Periods in Arizona
License suspension periods in Arizona vary depending on the nature of your DUI and your prior history of DUI convictions. Here’s a general overview of the suspension periods for first-time offenders:
- Standard DUI (BAC of 0.08% or higher): 90-day suspension, with the possibility of a restricted license after 30 days
- Extreme DUI (BAC of 0.15% or higher): Minimum 90-day suspension, with the possibility of a restricted license after 30 days. Can an extreme DUI be reduced in Arizona?
- Super Extreme DUI (BAC of 0.20% or higher): Minimum 90-day suspension, with the possibility of a restricted license after 30 days
Repeat offenders or those with aggravated DUI charges may face lengthier suspension periods.
Steps to Reinstate Your License After a DUI in Arizona
Once the suspension period for your DUI has been served, you’ll need to follow these steps to reinstate your driving privileges:
- Complete any court-ordered requirements: Before your license can be reinstated, you’ll need to ensure that you’ve fulfilled any requirements ordered by the court, such as attending alcohol education or treatment programs.
- Obtain SR-22 insurance: You’ll likely be required to obtain SR-22 insurance from your auto insurance provider. The SR-22 is a certificate that verifies you carry the minimum required liability insurance. You’ll typically need to maintain SR-22 insurance for three years following the reinstatement of your license.
- Pay the reinstatement fee: You’ll need to pay a reinstatement fee to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). The exact amount varies depending on the type of DUI and your driving history.
- Apply for license reinstatement: To get your license back, you’ll need to submit an application for reinstatement to the ADOT. This can be done online or in person at an ADOT office. Be prepared to provide proof of SR-22 insurance, completion of court-ordered requirements, and payment of the reinstatement fee.
How Chelle Law Can Help You Get Your License Back
The criminal defense team at Chelle Law is committed to helping clients regain their driving privileges following a DUI conviction. Our skilled attorneys can assist you throughout the reinstatement process by:
- Advising on court-ordered requirements: We’ll help you understand and fulfill any requirements imposed by the court, ensuring that you’re eligible for license reinstatement.
- Providing guidance on SR-22 insurance: Our team can explain the SR-22 insurance requirement and help you navigate the process of obtaining and maintaining this coverage.
- Assisting with the reinstatement process: We’ll guide you through the steps to reinstate your license, helping you prepare the necessary documents and advising you on the appropriate fees.
Getting your license back after a DUI in Arizona can be a complex and time-consuming process, but the dedicated criminal defense team at Chelle Law is here to help. Our experienced Scottsdale DUI Attorneys will guide you through each step, ensuring that you fulfill all requirements and submit the necessary paperwork to regain your driving privileges. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the complexities of the Arizona DUI legal process.
Relevant Links for an Arizona DUI
Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) – DUI Laws and Penalties: This page provides information on Arizona’s DUI laws, penalties, and license suspensions, including penalties for extreme DUI. Link: https://azdot.gov/motor-vehicle-services/driver-services/dui-laws-penalties
Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) – Title 28, Chapter 4: This section of the Arizona Revised Statutes covers DUI and related offenses, including extreme DUI and possible reductions. Link: https://www.azleg.gov/arsDetail/?title=28
Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) – Impaired Driving: This page offers information about the consequences of impaired driving and efforts to reduce DUI incidents in Arizona. Link: https://www.azdps.gov/safety/impaired-driving
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – Drunk Driving: The NHTSA provides resources and information about drunk driving, including statistics, prevention, and enforcement strategies. Link: https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) – Arizona: MADD is a non-profit organization dedicated to ending drunk driving, supporting the victims of drunk driving, and preventing underage drinking. The Arizona chapter’s website provides local resources and information. Link: https://www.madd.org/arizona/
How bad is a DUI in Arizona?
A DUI in Arizona is considered a serious offense with substantial consequences that can impact various aspects of one’s life. Penalties for a DUI conviction in the state are severe, including mandatory jail time, hefty fines and court fees, suspension or revocation of driving privileges, vehicle impoundment, and additional expenses such as mandatory alcohol education classes and ignition interlock device installation. Moreover, a DUI conviction can lead to long-lasting effects on personal and professional opportunities, such as employment, housing, and insurance rates. Understanding the gravity of a DUI charge in Arizona is crucial, as it emphasizes the importance of making responsible choices and seeking legal assistance when facing such charges.
Is a DUI a felony in AZ?
A DUI in Arizona can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the specific circumstances surrounding the offense. While most DUIs are considered misdemeanor violations, certain factors can elevate the charge to a felony. These aggravating factors include having multiple DUI convictions within a seven-year period, driving under the influence with a suspended or revoked license, causing serious injury or death, or having a child under 15 years old in the vehicle at the time of the offense. Felony DUIs, often referred to as aggravated DUIs, carry significantly harsher penalties, including longer jail sentences, larger fines, and an extended suspension or revocation of driving privileges. Understanding the difference between misdemeanor and felony DUIs in Arizona is essential for grasping the severity of the charges and the potential consequences involved.
