How to Reinstate Your Arizona Driver's License After a DUI

How Arizona's license reinstatement process works after a DUI conviction

After a DUI conviction in Arizona, your driver's license is suspended or revoked by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). To drive legally again, you must complete several specific steps in order, and the timeline depends on whether this is your first offense and what type of suspension you received. The process is not automatic — you have to request reinstatement once you meet all the requirements, and ADOT will review your case before deciding whether to restore your driving privileges.

The suspension length varies. A first DUI typically results in a 90-day administrative suspension (imposed when ready after arrest) followed by a license suspension of at least one year from the date of conviction. Subsequent offenses carry longer suspensions. You cannot drive during any part of the suspension period, even with a restricted or work permit, unless you meet the specific conditions for an ignition interlock device (IID) program.

Key Takeaways

Your license suspension begins on your conviction date, not your arrest date, and you must wait the full suspension period before requesting reinstatement.
You must complete a DUI education program (usually 16 hours for a first offense) and provide proof to ADOT before reinstatement is possible.
If you install an ignition interlock device, you may be able to drive during part of your suspension period under a restricted license, but this requires a separate request and approval.
Reinstatement requires submitting a form to ADOT along with proof of program completion, and there is a reinstatement fee (currently $250 for a first offense, though this may vary).
After reinstatement, you will have a probationary license for one year, and another DUI during this time will result in when ready suspension.

Understanding your suspension type and timeline

Arizona imposes two separate suspensions after a DUI: an administrative suspension and a criminal suspension. The administrative suspension happens first and is imposed by ADOT based on your arrest, usually 15 days after you are arrested (or when ready if you refused a breath or blood test). This suspension lasts 90 days for a first offense if you took a test, or one year if you refused.

The criminal suspension is imposed by the court after your conviction and is separate from the administrative suspension. For a first DUI, the court typically suspends your license for one year from the conviction date. If you have prior DUI convictions within 84 months, the suspension is longer — three years for a second offense, and eight years for a third or subsequent offense within that timeframe.

Both suspensions must expire before you can request reinstatement. If your administrative suspension ends before your criminal suspension, you still cannot drive. You must wait until the criminal suspension period is complete. Keep track of both dates so you know when you become may be able to access to request reinstatement.

Completing the required DUI education program

Before ADOT will reinstate your license, you must complete a court-ordered DUI education program. For a first offense, this is typically a 16-hour program. For subsequent offenses, the program is longer — 36 hours for a second offense, and 48 hours for a third or subsequent offense. The program must be completed through a provider approved by the Arizona Department of Health Services.

You can find approved providers through the Arizona Department of Health Services website or by asking your DUI attorney or the court that handled your case. The program covers topics like the effects of alcohol and drugs on driving, the risks of impaired driving, and strategies for avoiding future offenses. You will receive a certificate of completion once you finish, and you must keep this certificate — you will need to submit a copy to ADOT when you request reinstatement.

The program must be completed before your suspension period ends. If you complete it early, you can request reinstatement as soon as your suspension expires. If you have not completed it by the time your suspension ends, your license will remain suspended until you finish and provide proof to ADOT.

Requesting reinstatement from ADOT

Once your suspension period has ended and you have completed your DUI education program, you submit a reinstatement request to ADOT. You will need to complete the process for License Reinstatement (Form DL 44R) or submit your request through the ADOT website if that option is available. Along with the form, you must include a copy of your DUI education program certificate and proof of payment of the reinstatement fee.

The reinstatement fee for a first DUI offense is currently $250, though you should confirm the current amount with ADOT because fees can change. You can pay by check, money order, or credit card, depending on how you submit your request. Mail your completed form, certificate, and payment to the address listed on the ADOT website, or submit it in person at an ADOT office if you prefer.

ADOT typically processes reinstatement requests within two to four weeks. During this time, they review your file to confirm that your suspension period has ended, that you have completed the education program, and that you have no other holds on your license. Once approved, ADOT will mail you a new license or a notice that you can pick up your license at an ADOT office.

The ignition interlock device option and restricted driving

Arizona allows some drivers to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on their vehicle and request a restricted license that lets them drive during part of their suspension. An IID is a device connected to your vehicle's ignition that requires you to provide a breath sample before the engine will start. If the device detects alcohol, the vehicle will not start.

For a first DUI offense, you can request a restricted license after serving 45 days of your one-year criminal suspension, provided you install an IID and meet other requirements. You must request this separately from your reinstatement request, and ADOT must approve it. The restricted license allows you to drive only to work, school, medical appointments, the IID service provider, or your DUI education program — not for personal errands or social activities.

If you choose the IID route, you will still need to complete your DUI education program and eventually request full reinstatement once your suspension period ends. The IID requirement typically continues for one year after your license is reinstated, and you are responsible for the cost of installing, maintaining, and removing the device (usually $60 to $100 per month). This option is useful if you need to drive for work or other essential purposes during your suspension, but it requires advance planning and approval from ADOT.

What happens after your license is reinstated

Once ADOT reinstates your license, you will receive a probationary license valid for one year. During this probationary period, your driving record is monitored closely. If you are convicted of another DUI or certain traffic violations during this year, your license will be suspended when ready, and you will have to go through the reinstatement process again.

You are also required to maintain proof of financial responsibility (auto insurance) and carry it with you while driving. If you are stopped and cannot show proof of insurance, you face additional penalties. After the one-year probationary period ends, your license returns to normal status, though the DUI conviction remains on your driving record permanently.

Common obstacles and what to do if reinstatement is delayed

Reinstatement can be delayed if you have not completed your DUI education program, if you have other outstanding fines or court orders, or if there are holds on your license from other agencies (such as child support enforcement or the Department of Revenue). Before you submit your reinstatement request, contact ADOT to confirm that there are no holds preventing reinstatement.

If your reinstatement request is denied, ADOT will send you a written explanation. Common reasons for denial include incomplete program documentation, failure to pay the reinstatement fee, or discovery of additional violations or holds. If you receive a denial, review the reason carefully and contact ADOT to find out what additional steps are needed. You can resubmit your request once you have resolved the issue.

If you believe ADOT made an error in denying your reinstatement, you have the right to request a hearing before an administrative law judge. Your DUI attorney can help you file this request and prepare your case. The hearing process takes additional time, so it is better to resolve any issues before submitting your initial reinstatement request if possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with a suspended license if I have an ignition interlock device?

Only if you have requested and received a restricted license from ADOT that specifically allows IID driving. A standard suspension means no driving at all, even with an IID installed. You must submit a separate request for the restricted license and have it approved before you can legally drive with the device.

What if I move out of Arizona before my suspension ends?

Your Arizona suspension remains in effect regardless of where you live. If you move to another state, that state's DMV will see the suspension on your record and will not issue you a license. You must complete your Arizona suspension and reinstatement process before you can obtain a license in another state.

Do I have to retake my driver's test to get my license back?

No. Reinstatement does not require you to retake the written or driving test. You only need to submit the reinstatement form, proof of program completion, and the reinstatement fee. However, if your license has been expired for more than five years, you may need to retake the test — confirm this with ADOT when you request reinstatement.

How much does the whole reinstatement process cost?

The reinstatement fee itself is $250 for a first offense. However, you will also pay for the DUI education program (typically $300 to $500 for a 16-hour program) and, if you choose the IID option, installation and monthly monitoring fees. Total costs usually range from $600 to $1,500 depending on your choices and the providers you use.

Can I request reinstatement before my suspension period officially ends?

No. ADOT will not process a reinstatement request until your suspension period has completely expired. Submitting early will delay your request. Calculate your suspension end date carefully and submit your request on or after that date, not before.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.