AJB Law Firm · Arizona DUI License Guide

Arizona DUI Refusal Suspension

Reinstatement and restricted-driving options after refusing a requested chemical test.

Start with your own MVD record. A refusal suspension is different from a 90-day APS suspension. Sign in to AZ MVD Now to review outstanding compliance actions. Do not drive until MVD confirms you have valid driving privileges.

How long is a refusal suspension?

Arizona implied-consent law generally provides a 12-month suspension for a first qualifying refusal and 24 months for a subsequent refusal within the applicable 84-month lookback period. Your notice and MVD record control the precise action.

Can I drive before the suspension ends?

A qualifying first-refusal driver may be eligible for a special ignition interlock restricted driver license after meeting statutory and MVD prerequisites. The refusal-specific pathway can apply even when the underlying DUI investigation involved drugs only; it does not mean a later drug-only DUI conviction automatically requires an interlock. Repeat-refusal and other disqualifying circumstances need individualized review.

Reinstatement checklist

  1. Review your refusal notice, effective dates, and all MVD compliance issues.
  2. Complete the required substance abuse screening and any additional counseling or treatment ordered or required.
  3. Confirm SR-22/future financial responsibility requirements with MVD and your insurer.
  4. If eligible for a restricted interlock license, obtain MVD approval, arrange certified interlock installation, and confirm provider reporting.
  5. Pay applicable reinstatement/license fees and satisfy other holds.
  6. Verify MVD has restored the appropriate driving privilege before driving.

If you are also convicted

Keep the interlock installed until MVD confirms removal is authorized. A later alcohol DUI conviction may impose a separate mandatory period. Ask MVD whether eligible SIIRDL time counts toward that period. Drug-only convictions generally do not automatically impose a conviction-based interlock, although court orders and other actions may.

Frequently asked questions

My suspension period ended. Can I drive?

Not automatically. Complete all outstanding MVD requirements and verify that your driving privilege is valid before driving.

What if my license is from another state?

Arizona can restrict your privilege to drive in Arizona. Your home state may impose additional requirements; contact that licensing agency directly.

Does a drug-related refusal qualify for an interlock-restricted license?

A qualifying first refusal can have a refusal-specific SIIRDL pathway even when drugs are involved. MVD must determine eligibility based on the exact record.

Official resources

AZ MVD NowMVD DUI informationMVD DUI servicesArizona statutes

Arizona MVD Driver Services: 602-255-0072. Ask MVD to identify the exact compliance action, effective dates, fees, and documentation still outstanding.

Important: This page provides general Arizona information, not individualized legal advice or confirmation of eligibility. The applicable statutes, court orders, MVD notices, and MVD compliance record control. Rules and fees may change. Out-of-state license holders must also contact their issuing state.

AJB Law Firm, LLC · Tucson, Arizona