Arizona CDL DUI Consequences
Arizona's I-10 and I-40 corridors carry massive freight volumes. A DUI means federal CDL disqualification plus Arizona's aggressive mandatory minimums and a 7-year lookback.
Federal + State: You Face Both
As a CDL holder arrested for DUI in Arizona, you're subject to federal CDL disqualification (1 year minimum) AND Arizona state criminal penalties. Arizona's "Extreme" and "Super Extreme" DUI laws add escalating penalties based on BAC.
Arizona DUI Criminal Penalties
Arizona has three tiers of DUI based on BAC level
| Offense | Jail Time | Fines | License |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard DUI (0.08-0.149%) | 10 days min | $1,500+ | 90-360 days |
| Extreme DUI (0.15-0.199%) | 30 days min | $2,500+ | 90-360 days |
| Super Extreme DUI (0.20%+) | 45 days min | $3,200+ | 90-360 days |
| Aggravated DUI (Felony) | 4 months - 2 years prison | $4,000+ | 1-3 years revoked |
Arizona's 7-Year Lookback: Prior DUI convictions within 7 years enhance penalties. An Aggravated DUI occurs when driving on suspended license, with a child under 15, or with 3rd+ offense.
Commercial Vehicle Impound in Arizona
Phoenix metro and the I-10/I-40 corridors see heavy commercial traffic
Towing Costs
- •Base hook-up: $250-$400
- •Per-mile charges: $5-$9/mile
- •Heavy-duty recovery: $600-$2,000+/hour
- •Desert/remote recovery adds premium
Storage Fees
- •Tractor: $45-$90/day
- •Trailer: $25-$50/day (separate)
- •Administrative fee: $50-$100
- •Some lots closed weekends—fees still accrue
Arizona Impound Release Requirements
To retrieve a commercial vehicle from an Arizona impound lot:
- • Valid government ID
- • Proof of ownership or registration
- • If carrier sending another driver: Written authorization from registered owner
- • Full payment of all fees (cash, card, or certified check)
Arizona Admin Per Se
Arizona has an Admin Per Se law that suspends your license immediately if you fail or refuse a breath/blood test. CDL holders face this state action AND federal CDL disqualification.
15-Day Deadline
You have 15 days from arrest to request a hearing with MVD. Missing this deadline means automatic Arizona license suspension on day 16.
Finding a SAP in Arizona
Arizona has DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professionals in the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas, as well as along the I-10 and I-40 freight corridors.
Telehealth SAP evaluations are widely available and particularly useful for drivers in rural areas of northern Arizona or the border region.
How to find and work with a SAPFederal CDL Regulations
For information about federal CDL disqualification, the FMCSA Clearinghouse, and the Return-to-Duty process that applies nationwide:
CDL DUI Federal GuideRelated Arizona DUI Guides
Sources & Official Resources
Information on this page is sourced from Arizona state statutes and federal regulations.
- Arizona Revised Statutes 28-1381 - DUI Laws
- 49 CFR § 383.51 - Federal CDL Disqualification
- Arizona MVD - Driver Services
Last updated: January 8, 2026
Need an Arizona CDL DUI Attorney?
Arizona's tiered DUI system and mandatory minimums require specialized defense. Find an attorney who understands both Arizona law and federal CDL consequences.
Find Arizona CDL Attorney