If your driver’s license was suspended due to a DUI you may have one major concern, “How am I going to get where I need to go?” Fortunately, Arizona allows some of those with a DUI to obtain a special restricted driver license that addresses some of these issues.
Who is eligible for a special restricted driver license?
A person with a DUI may obtain a special restricted driver license if they meet the following requirements. First, they must have completed a minimum of 90 days of their driver license suspension period. They must not have any outstanding withdrawal actions on their driving record. They must install and utilize an ignition interlock device on their vehicle and provide the Arizona Department of Transportation with proof that the device was installed by submitting a Verification of Installation form.
If required, they must attend any mandatory alcohol treatment programs and provide the Arizona Department of Transportation with proof that they completed the program. They must provide the Arizona Department of Transportation with proof that they are financially responsible moving forward, for example, by providing them with a certificate of auto liability insurance. Finally, they must pay any applicable fees.
Where can I go on a special restricted driver license?
A special restricted driver license does not give you free reign to go anywhere you want. Per Arizona law, during your suspension period, a special restricted driver license allows you to go to work and school. You can also go from work or school to a medical appointment. In addition, you can go from work or school to an education or treatment facility for a scheduled appointment or to your probation officer’s office for a scheduled appointment. You can even go from work or school to a certified ignition interlock device service facility. Finally, if you are a parent and are not married to your child’s other parent, you can use your special restricted driver license to go to the location designated for your parenting time with your child or to transport a child who resides with you from your home to the child’s workplace, school or medical appointments.
Is it worthwhile to get a special restricted driver license following a DUI?
Obtaining a special restricted driver license may seem like a hassle following a DUI, and the places you can go with one unduly limited. However, many people in the Phoenix valley metro area, find that having a driver’s license, even a restricted one, is invaluable.
Author Bio
Matthew L. Lopez
Matthew L. Lopez is the Managing Attorney and founder of Matthew Lopez Law, a criminal defense and DUI firm serving clients throughout Arizona. His track record of case dismissals and charge reductions has earned him honors, including a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 nomination, a “Superb” 10/10 Avvo rating, and a Rising Star designation by Super Lawyers.
Matthew is a member of the National College for DUI Defense and holds active memberships with the Arizona Association for Criminal Justice and the Arizona Association for Justice. His firm handles criminal defense, DUI, drug charges, and traffic offenses, offering free consultations and affordable payment plans to make quality defense accessible to all Arizonans.
