Arizona Interlock Early Removal: A Guide

If you’re convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in Arizona, your vehicle will be mandatorily equipped with an Ignition Interlock Device—even if it’s your first time.¹

Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) test your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) via breathalyzer before allowing you to start your engine. They’ll then ask you for samples at random intervals as you drive to ensure ongoing sobriety.²

Generally, the state mandates Interlock Devices for a period of 12 months following a DUI—though, it could be longer for serious or repeat convictions. However, in Arizona, Interlock early removal is possible.³

This guide will outline the necessary criteria and steps you can take to have your Interlock Device taken off early in Arizona—sometimes, as soon as six months after it’s installed.

Who’s Eligible For Early Interlock Removal in Arizona?

If you meet certain conditions and follow specific guidelines, the state of Arizona may allow you to remove your Ignition Interlock early.

First and foremost, individuals with multiple convictions cannot have their Interlocks removed before the initially established date. To be eligible for early removal, it must be your first such violation.⁴

On top of this Interlock requirement, Arizona has several other stipulations that must be met before someone convicted of a DUI is eligible for early Interlock removal. For the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) to consider an applicant, they must⁴:

• Have committed their DUI on or after January 1st, 2012
• Have no DUIs within the last seven years
• Have not been convicted of an extreme DUI (defined as having a BAC of 0.15 or higher)³
• Have not been involved in an accident during the incident
• Complete a minimum of 16 hours of substance abuse education
• Have not committed any violations during the first six months of using their interlock (e.g. failure to pride a sample, providing a sample over the limit, etc.)
• Have had their driver’s license reinstated at least six months ago

If all these conditions are met, the ADOT can consider your case and choose to terminate your Interlock period early. In fact, you may be eligible to have your Interlock taken off as early as six months after it’s installed if you meet the necessary conditions and the ADOT chooses to show leniency with your case.⁴

If your device is removed, the following six months will become a probationary period. If you commit more driving-related infractions during this probation period, the ADOT may choose to reinstate or extend its use period.⁴

Can the ADOT Prolong An Interlock Use Period?

Along with shortening Interlock sentences for proper behavior, the ADOT can also choose to extend use periods for repeated violations. Some acts that may prolong your Interlock term include⁴:

• Failed breath tests – Providing two samples over the legal limit (or one if under 21 years old) results in a six-month Interlock extension.
• Missed rolling retests – Not providing a sample at the Interlock’s request three times in a row results in six months added onto the use period.
• Missed maintenance appointments – Failing to get the Interlock serviced and calibrated every 77-90 days results in a restart of the use period and another driver’s license suspension.
• Tampering with the device – Is DUI a felony in Arizona? Most DUIs aren’t felonies. However, tampering with or breaking the Interlock is a Class 1 felony that adds six months to the use period.
• Removing the device – Uninstalling an Interlock results in a license suspension and a restart of the use period.

For those hoping to have their Interlock Devices removed early, any of these actions will negate that possibility. If you meet the qualifications for early removal, however, you can apply to the ADOT so that they can consider your case.

How to Apply For Early Interlock Removal in Arizona

If you’re convicted of a DUI in Arizona, taking swift action can help reduce the amount of time you’ll need to use an Interlock Device. As soon as you receive your sentence, you should:

• Immediately apply to reinstate your license—which can be done in person or online through the ADOT’s website—as it needs to be reinstated for at least six months prior to early removal.
• Follow the Interlock’s regulations, take and pass all tests, and refrain from tampering with the device.
• Maintain the Interlock according to the ADOT’s guidelines (every 77-90 days).
• Keep meticulous records of your compliance and have them on hand for when you apply for early removal.

If you meet the conditions and it’s been at least six months since your Interlock was installed, contact the ADOT’s Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) to apply for early device removal. You can chat with them via the ADOT’s website, in person at MVD locations, or over the phone.⁶

Trust Smart Start For Your Arizona Interlock Needs

If you’re convicted of a DUI in Arizona, getting an Ignition Interlock Device put in your vehicle is mandatory. This means you’re responsible for choosing a qualified provider to install, maintain, and, eventually, remove your device.

To ensure your service is timely and reliable, choose the expert team at Smart Start. We’ve been providing Ignition Interlock Devices for over 30 years and have helped over one million IID users meet the terms of their sentences.⁶

If you’re looking for Arizona interlocks that are meticulously maintained and easy to use, fill out our simple online form or call (800) 831-3299  to get started and see for yourself the exceptional level of service we provide.

Sources:

1. Arizona Department of Transportation. Driving Under the Influence (DUI).https://azdot.gov/mvd/services/driver-services/driver-improvement/driving-under-influence-dui
2. Arizona Department of Transportation. Certified Ignition Interlock (CIID). https://azdot.gov/mvd/services/driver-services/ignition-interlock/certified-ignition-interlock-ciid
3. Arizona Department of Transportation. FAQ – Ignition Interlock. https://azdot.gov/mvd/services/driver-services/ignition-interlock/faq-ignition-interlock
4. Arizona Department of Transportation. Certified Ignition Interlock Device (CIID). https://apps.azdot.gov/files/mvd/mvd-forms-lib/99-0177.pdf
5. Arizona Department of Transportation. Contact MVD. https://azdot.gov/mvd/contact-mvd
6. Smart Start. How Long Can a Breathalyzer Detect Alcohol? https://www.smartstartinc.com/blog/how-long-can-a-breathalyzer-detect-alcohol/