Arizona Is Tough on Repeat DUI Offenders
Arizona has some of the strictest DUI laws in the nation. If you’ve already been convicted of driving under the influence once, a second DUI offense within seven years brings harsher penalties—including mandatory jail time, higher fines, longer license suspension, and required ignition interlock installation.
In this post, we break down the legal consequences of a second DUI in Arizona, including possible defenses and why hiring a skilled defense attorney is critical.
What Counts as a Second DUI in Arizona?
Arizona law treats a second DUI within 84 months (7 years) of a prior DUI conviction as a repeat offense. This applies to:
- Standard DUIs (BAC of 0.08% or higher)
- Extreme DUIs (BAC of 0.15% or higher)
- Aggravated DUIs (such as driving on a suspended license)
Even if your first conviction happened in another state, it could still count under Arizona’s statutes.
Penalties for a Second Standard DUI (BAC 0.08–0.149%)
A second standard DUI is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor, but the penalties are far more serious than a first offense.
Mandatory Penalties Include:
- Jail Time: Minimum 90 days (60 days mandatory), though part may be suspended with alcohol screening and education
- Fines and Fees: Approximately $3,000+
- License Suspension: 1 year
- Ignition Interlock Device: Required for 12 months
- Alcohol Treatment: Mandatory screening and completion of treatment program
- Community Service: Minimum 30 hours
These penalties are non-negotiable under state law. However, a strong defense can affect how they’re applied.
Penalties for a Second Extreme DUI (BAC 0.15–0.199%)
The punishment is even more severe if your BAC was above 0.15%.
- Jail Time: 120 days (at least 60 must be served)
- Fines: Up to $3,250 or more
- License Suspension: 1 year
- Interlock Device: 12 months or longer
- Alcohol Education & Treatment: Mandatory
- Community Service: Required
If your BAC was over 0.20%, jail time may increase to 180 days.
Is a Second DUI a Felony in Arizona?
Typically, a second DUI is a misdemeanor unless certain aggravating factors are present. You may be charged with a Class 4 felony (Aggravated DUI) if:
- You were driving on a suspended or revoked license
- A child under 15 was in the vehicle
- It’s your third DUI in 7 years
Felony DUI penalties can include prison time, license revocation, and a permanent criminal record.
Possible DUI Defenses for Repeat Offenders
Even second DUI charges can be challenged in court. Our attorneys often investigate:
- Improper traffic stops
- Faulty breath or blood testing
- Violation of Miranda rights
- Unreliable field sobriety test results
A DUI defense attorney in Arizona can evaluate the police report and determine whether your rights were violated.
Why Hire Rideout Law Group for Your Second DUI?
At Rideout Law Group, we’ve defended hundreds of DUI cases in Scottsdale, Lake Havasu, and across Arizona. With decades of combined experience and a former prosecutor on our team, we know how to navigate repeat DUI charges and fight for reduced penalties or dismissal.
We understand the emotional, financial, and legal stress you’re facing—and we’re here to help you move forward.
Get Help Now
If you’ve been arrested for a second DUI offense in Arizona, time is critical. Contact Rideout Law Group to schedule a free, confidential case review.
📞 Scottsdale Office: (480) 584-3328
📞 Lake Havasu Office: (928) 854-8181
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