Did Arizona ever have an employer exemption for ignition interlock?

Yes, historically Arizona allowed drivers with an interlock requirement to operate employer-owned vehicles without the device under certain conditions. However, this exemption has been significantly restricted or repealed in recent years. Current law under the SIIRDL (Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver License) requires an interlock on ALL vehicles you operate.

SIIRDL stands for Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver License. This is the restricted license issued to DUI offenders in Arizona that allows driving only vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device. The key word is 'restricted' - you can ONLY drive vehicles with an interlock installed.

Can I get in trouble for driving a work vehicle without an interlock?

Yes. If you have an SIIRDL and drive ANY vehicle without an interlock (including employer vehicles), you can be charged with driving on a suspended/restricted license. This is a new criminal offense that can result in additional jail time, fines, and extension of your interlock requirement.

What should I tell my employer?

You need to have an honest conversation with your employer. Options include: (1) Having an interlock installed on the company vehicle you primarily use, (2) Being reassigned to non-driving duties, (3) Using only vehicles already equipped with interlocks. Many employers are understanding, but you cannot legally drive their vehicles without the device.

Why do old websites say there's an employer exemption?

Many legal websites haven't been updated since the law changed. They're citing old statutes or employer exemption forms that are no longer valid. Always verify current law with the Arizona MVD or a DUI attorney before relying on online information.

Are there ANY exemptions to the interlock requirement in Arizona?

Very limited. If you don't own a vehicle and don't need to drive, you may be able to satisfy requirements without installing a device. But if you want to drive at all - including for work - you must use a vehicle with an interlock. There is no exemption for employer vehicles under current law.

WARNING: OUTDATED INFO ONLINE

Arizona Interlock Employer Exemption: It's Been REPEALED

Old articles and outdated legal blogs say you can drive a company car without an interlock in Arizona. They're wrong. Following this advice will get you arrested.

Last verified: January 2026 | Current Arizona MVD and SIIRDL Requirements

Critical: The Employer Exemption No Longer Exists

What Old Articles Say

"Arizona allows drivers with an interlock requirement to operate employer-owned vehicles without the device if they complete an employer exemption form..."

This is OUTDATED and DANGEROUS information.

The Current Reality (2026)

Under the SIIRDL (Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver License):

You can ONLY drive vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device. This includes ALL vehicles — personal, rental, borrowed, and employer-owned.

What Happens If You Follow Old Advice

If you're caught driving ANY vehicle without an interlock while on an SIIRDL, you face:

• Criminal charge: Driving on a restricted license
• Potential jail time
• Extended interlock requirement
• Additional fines and fees
• Possible job loss

Why Did Arizona Remove the Employer Exemption?

Arizona strengthened its interlock laws to close loopholes that allowed DUI offenders to drive without the device.

Safety Concerns

Studies showed that employer exemptions created opportunities for repeat DUI offenses. Drivers could claim they were "working" while actually driving intoxicated.

Enforcement Challenges

Police had difficulty verifying whether someone was actually driving for work purposes. Removing the exemption simplified enforcement.

Federal Pressure

Federal highway safety guidelines increasingly recommend "all-vehicle" interlock requirements without exemptions for employer vehicles.

What To Do If Your Job Requires Driving

You have options, but they all require working with your employer:

Install Interlock on Company Vehicle

Many employers will allow you to have an interlock installed on the specific company vehicle you use. The cost is typically $70-$150/month and may be your responsibility.

Request Non-Driving Duties

Ask your employer about temporary reassignment to a non-driving role while you complete your interlock period. This may be easier than you think — many employers want to retain good employees.

Use Fleet Vehicles Already Equipped

Some large fleet operators already have interlocks on vehicles for insurance purposes. Ask if you can be assigned to vehicles that already have the device.

Talk to an Attorney

A DUI attorney may be able to help you negotiate with your employer, explore any remaining legal options, or work to shorten your interlock period.

How Arizona Compares to Other States

Employer exemptions vary significantly by state. Here's how Arizona stacks up:

State	Employer Exemption?	Notes
Arizona		Repealed - SIIRDL requires interlock on all vehicles
Texas	Yes	Requires employer affidavit and judicial notification
Ohio	Yes	Must carry notification; can't own any part of business
Tennessee		No exemption - must install on work vehicle

Important: If you see articles referencing Texas or Ohio employer exemptions, don't assume the same applies to Arizona. Each state has different laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official Resources

Related Arizona Guides

Arizona Impound Overview Early Release Options Two-Fee Structure

Need Help Navigating Arizona DUI Requirements?

A DUI attorney can help you understand current interlock requirements, work with your employer, and explore options to protect your job.

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