How Much Does a DUI Cost in Arizona?

The base fine for a first-time driving under the influence (DUI) charge in Arizona is $250. However, drivers can also face many additional costs, sometimes resulting in thousands of dollars for a drunk driving charge. 

A Gilbert DUI lawyer from the Law Offices of Brandon White can tell you more about the costs associated with a DUI conviction in Arizona. The team at the law firm can also get to work on your defense and help you avoid the penalties for drunk driving.

How Much Does an Arizona DUI Cost?

The cost of a conviction for impaired driving can vary, with minimum fines for a first DUI starting at $250. For a second DUI within seven years, drivers face a $500 base fine. For a third offense, the base fine increases to $750. 

Additionally, drivers can face higher base fines when facing other driving under the influence (DUI) charges in Arizona. For example, drivers charged with an extreme DUI under A.R.S. 28-1382A1 could face a base fine of $500, even for a first offense. A 

Additionally, these base fine levels are deceptive. Drivers should expect the court to add surcharges, fees, and court costs. A DUI could easily cost thousands of dollars after adding on these expenses. An attorney from the Law Offices of Brandon White can tell you more. 

There Are Additional Costs for an Arizona DUI

Drivers will face additional financial costs for a DUI, going beyond the fines issued by the court after a conviction. These costs can include:

Paying for an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) 

Arizona requires most drivers convicted of a DUI (even a first-time offense) to install IIDs on any vehicles they plan to operate. IIDs function as personal breathalyzer devices. Paying to install and maintain these devices can quickly increase the costs of a DUI conviction. 

Paying for Traffic Survival School

The court can order drivers to attend traffic survival school or other alcohol treatment programs after a DUI conviction. The program a driver must attend will vary based on the severity of the DUI charges they faced. 

These classes can cost thousands of dollars. An attorney from the Law Offices of Brandon White can provide more information about how much a DUI costs in Arizona when you add in all these additional fees. 

Costs From Outside the Legal System for a DUI Conviction

A conviction for a DUI can result in other fees for drivers in Arizona. For example, drivers can expect their insurance rates to go up after a DUI conviction. Insurance rates can stay elevated for years after a conviction, greatly increasing the financial burdens on a driver. 

The tremendous financial impact of a DUI conviction makes it critical that drivers reach out to a skilled criminal defense law firm immediately after an arrest. Waiting to get help can increase the chances of facing a conviction. 

You can get help right away from the team at the Law Offices of Brandon White.

Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Penalties in Arizona

The lawyers at the Law Offices of Brandon White can answer any questions that you have after an arrest for drunk driving. For example, members of the team can answer questions like:

How long does a DUI stay on your record in Arizona?

DUIs in Arizona will stay on your criminal record forever. They typically “fall off” your driving record after five years, though the state maintains a seven-year look-back period. During this seven-year period, prior DUIs count against you if the police arrest you for a subsequent drunk driving offense. 

How long do you go to jail for a DUI in Arizona?

The time you spend incarcerated after a DUI in Arizona varies based on the nature and severity of the charges you face. For example, a first offense for a “basic” DUI could lead to up to 10 days in jail, whereas a third offense could result in a minimum four-month sentence. 

Working with an attorney can allow you to build a defense that can help you avoid jail time after a conviction, in some situations. 

How long does Arizona suspend your license after a DUI conviction?

Arizona often issues a 90-day license suspension for drivers who fail a blood alcohol content (BAC) test conducted by a police officer. Generally, you become eligible for a restricted license 30 days into your suspension. 

Get the Legal Help You Need After a DUI Arrest in Arizona

So, how much does a DUI cost in Arizona? The cost of a DUI conviction will depend on numerous factors, including how many past DUI convictions you have on your record and the severity of the charges you face. Counting court fees, the costs of installing an IID, and other charges, a DUI could easily cost thousands of dollars. 

The lawyers at the Law Offices of Brandon White can step in to help you handle DUI allegations right now. Our team has over 30 years of combined experience, and we’re ready to stand up for you. We have a former state trooper and a former prosecutor on our team, and we’re ready to address your concerns today.