Arizona Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Requirements

Arizona Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Requirements for DUI Offenders

If you've been arrested for DUI in Arizona, you're likely facing significant consequences, including the potential requirement to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle. This article explains Arizona's IID laws, requirements, and what you need to know to regain your driving privileges.

What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?

An Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is a breath-alcohol analysis device connected to a vehicle's ignition system. Before you can start the car, you must blow into the device. If your breath alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeds a pre-set limit, the car will not start. The IID also requires you to provide breath samples at random intervals while driving (rolling retests) to ensure you remain sober.

Who Needs an IID in Arizona?

Arizona law mandates the use of IIDs for individuals convicted of DUI. A.R.S. § 28-1461 states that anyone whose driving privilege is limited or restricted due to a DUI conviction must install a functioning certified IID in every vehicle they operate. Arizona has an "all-vehicle" mandate, meaning you cannot drive any vehicle without an IID if you are subject to this requirement. Even if you own multiple vehicles, you are barred from driving those that don't have a certified device.

Arizona Laws and Statutes Requiring IID

The legal basis for the IID program in Arizona is found in Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) Title 28, specifically these sections:

• A.R.S. § 28-1381
• A.R.S. § 28-1382
• A.R.S. § 28-1383
• A.R.S. § 28-1461: This is the cornerstone of the IID program, mandating IID installation for DUI convictions.
• A.R.S. § 28-3319

Offenses That Trigger IID Requirements

The length of time you are required to have an IID installed depends on the severity of your DUI offense:

• First DUI Offense (Regular DUI, BAC < 0.15%): 12 months. Note: You may be eligible for a 6-month deferment (early removal) with strict compliance.
• Extreme DUI (BAC 0.15% - 0.199%): 18 months
• Super Extreme DUI (BAC ≥ 0.20%): 18 months
• Second DUI Offense (within 84 months/7 years): 24 months
• Aggravated DUI (Felony): 24 months. This period typically begins after release from incarceration and restoration of driving privileges.

When Does the IID Requirement Start?

The IID requirement begins upon the reinstatement of your driving privileges, according to ADOT regulations and A.R.S. § 28-3319. The mandatory IID period doesn't start automatically with the administrative suspension or the court case duration. So, waiting out a suspension period without installing the IID doesn't reduce your IID requirement. Delays in installing the device directly delay the eventual removal of the restriction.

Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver License (SIIRDL) Exception: If you obtain a SIIRDL, time spent driving with the IID may be credited toward your mandatory IID order, provided the violation occurred after January 1, 2023. This incentivizes early IID installation.

State-Approved IID Providers in Arizona

Arizona has a "closed market" system, meaning you must use a state-certified provider. Using an uncertified provider will not count toward your IID requirement. As of 2026, the approved providers include:

• Smart Start: Offers SSI 20/20, SSI 20/30, and SSI Flex models. They have a large service center network and 24/7 customer care.

• Phoenix locations: 4000 N 19th Avenue, 6328 N 7th Street, 935 E Indian School Rd

• Tucson locations: 3455 S Palo Verde Rd, 3256 E Lincoln Street

• Mesa locations: 5524 E. Baseline Rd, 111 S Dobson Road

• Chandler locations: 777 N Arizona Ave, 2055 N. Alma School Road

• Intoxalock: Uses the 1001A device with a "sleep mode" to save battery.

• Phoenix locations: 17225 N. Tatum Blvd, 2427 W Northern Ave, 3666 N 7th Street

• Tucson locations: 145 S Olsen Ave, 1700 S 6th Avenue, 3101 N Stone Ave

• Mesa locations: 1529 S Clearview Ave, 1902 N. Country Club Dr, 629 W Broadway Road

• Chandler locations: 3170 N. Arizona Ave, 450 E. Frye Rd

• LifeSafer: Offers the L250 and FC100 models. They emphasize the small size of their devices.

• Phoenix locations: 1201 N 54th Ave

• Tucson locations: 4201 S Randolph Ave, 172 S Kolb Road

• Mesa locations: 207 S Extension Rd, 310 North Val Vista

• Chandler locations: 2350 E. Germann Rd

• QuickStart (Monitech): Uses the QT2 device and offers mobile installation in the Phoenix area. Offers "$0 payment for 30 days" promotion. You can call them at 888-717-8278 for a geographic quote on mobile installation.

• Alcohol Detection Systems (ADS): Uses the DM-909.

• Low Cost Interlock: Uses the LCI-777.

• Alcolock USA: Uses the LR device.

• Alcohol Analytics Systems (Budget IID): Uses the AAS 2.0 device.

IID Installation Process

1. Select a Certified Provider: Choose a provider from the ADOT-approved list.
2. Schedule Installation: Contact the provider to schedule an installation appointment.
3. Installation: The technician will install the device in your vehicle. The installation record must be electronically received by the Department.
4. Training: The technician will train you on how to use the IID properly.
5. Compliance: Adhere to all operational and maintenance requirements.

IID Costs

You are responsible for all IID-related costs. These include:

• Installation Fee: This can range from $70 to $150. Some providers, like QuickStart, may waive the installation fee as part of a promotional offer.
• Monthly Monitoring/Lease Fee: This fee typically ranges from $75 to $105 per month.
• Removal Fee: A fee is charged to remove the device once your requirement is complete, along with restoring the vehicle's ignition.
• State Administrative Fee: A non-negotiable $20 administrative fee is collected at the time of installation, reinstallation, or vehicle transfer, remitted directly to ADOT, pursuant to Arizona Revised Statute ARS 28-1462(H) and administrative rule R17-5-614 Subsection D.
• Violation or Reset Fee: If the device registers a breath sample above the preset alcohol threshold, or when the user fails to provide a requested rolling retest within the allotted timeframe, an override code is needed, costing you extra.
• Device Protection Insurance (DPI): This monthly insurance premium shields the consumer from the liability associated with replacing a highly sophisticated piece of telematics hardware in the event of theft, catastrophic vehicle collision, or accidental damage.
• Total Estimated Cost (1 Year): A standard 1-year IID requirement will cost between $800 and $1,500, excluding insurance increases.

Understanding Breath Tests and Rolling Retests

• Starting the Vehicle: You must blow into the IID before starting the car. If your BAC is less than 0.020%, the vehicle will start. If your BAC is 0.020% or higher, the vehicle will not start. A temporary lockout period will be enforced before a retest is allowed.
• Rolling Retests: While driving, the IID will randomly prompt you to provide another breath sample. You typically have 6 minutes to provide a sample after the prompt. If you fail the rolling retest (BAC ≥ 0.020%) or fail to provide a sample, the device will register a violation and may activate the vehicle's horn and lights. Pull over as soon as it is safe to do so.

Compliance Violations and Consequences

Arizona MVD enforces a "strict compliance" model. Violations will extend your IID requirement.

Reportable Violations:

• Tampering or circumvention of the device. This is a Class 1 Misdemeanor.
• Attempting to start the vehicle with a BAC exceeding the presumptive limit (typically 0.08%, or 0.00% for drivers under 21).
• Missing a rolling retest.
• Three consecutive missed retests during a single drive cycle.
• Missing a scheduled calibration appointment.

Consequences:

• The standard extension is 6 months for each violation. If a violation occurs, you must maintain a continuous 6-month period of perfect compliance to regain eligibility for early removal (deferment). The "time served" toward the 6-month deferment is reset.

Reinstating Your License and the SIIRDL

The IID is directly tied to license reinstatement. Your driving privileges will remain suspended until the MVD receives electronic proof of IID installation.

Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver License (SIIRDL):

The SIIRDL allows you to regain limited driving privileges during your suspension period. Time spent driving with a SIIRDL may be credited toward the mandatory IID requirement for violations occurring on or after January 1, 2023.

Eligibility for a SIIRDL:

• First-time offender (no prior DUI convictions within 84 months/7 years).
• The DUI did not involve an accident causing death or serious physical injury.
• Completion of alcohol or drug screening ordered by law enforcement or the court.
• No other outstanding suspensions, revocations, or withdrawal actions on your driving record.
• Potentially serving a minimum of 90 days of the suspension before becoming eligible.

Applying for a SIIRDL:

1. Verify eligibility with the MVD.
2. Install the IID (within 90 days prior to SIIRDL issuance).
3. Obtain an SR-22 "Certificate of Financial Responsibility" from your insurance company.
4. Comply with any mandated alcohol treatment or education.
5. Pay all applicable fees.
6. Submit your application online or at an MVD/Third Party office.

Exemptions: Employer Vehicles and Financial Hardship

• Employer Vehicle: There is NO employer exemption in Arizona. Any vehicle you drive must have an IID installed. Driving a non-equipped employer vehicle is a Class 1 Misdemeanor and will result in a 1-year extension of the IID requirement. This exemption was repealed in 2013.

• Financial Hardship (Indigency): Arizona does not waive the IID requirement due to poverty, but reduced pricing is available for eligible individuals. You must submit tax returns or proof of enrollment in state assistance programs to the IID provider, not the MVD.

• 100% of Poverty Level or Below: Customer pays 10% of the cost.

• 101% - 200% of Poverty Level: Customer pays 25% of the cost.

• 201% - 300% of Poverty Level: Customer pays 50% of the cost.

Early Removal: The 6-Month Deferment

First-time offenders may be eligible for a 6-month deferment, reducing the IID requirement from 12 months to 6 months.

Eligibility Criteria:

• First offense within 7 years.
• Conviction for a "Regular" DUI (BAC < 0.15%).
• No accident involved.
• Successful completion of mandatory substance abuse education/screening (16 hours).
• Six months of perfect IID compliance:
• No failed starts > 0.08%.
• No missed rolling retests.
• No tampering.
• No missed service appointments.

Important Notes about the IID:

• All certified devices in Arizona must have a camera to capture your image during breath tests and a GPS to log location data.
• Devices must report violations to the manufacturer's database in real-time.
• Be aware of potential "interferents" – substances like mouthwash, perfume, and hand sanitizer – that can cause false positives. Wait at least 20 minutes after using mouthwash or aggressively rinse your mouth.
• QuickStart's QT-2 device has a "Blow-Hum" pattern to prevent circumvention, as well as a programmable "Fast-Start" capability to eliminate prolonged delays in vehicle mobilization during the winter months.

Navigating the IID Requirement

The Arizona IID program is rigorous. Compliance requires proactive management and absolute adherence to the rules. By understanding the laws, working with a certified provider, and maintaining perfect compliance, you can successfully navigate the IID requirement and restore your driving privileges as soon as possible.