Arizona Ignition Interlock Laws: From Installation to Removal
The deadlines that matter, in plain English: install within 30 days of conviction, calibrate every 77–90 days, answer any recall within 72 hours, and keep the device until you're cleared.
By Sound Image Team
4 min read
On this page
- Arizona ignition interlock laws at a glance
- Who needs an ignition interlock in Arizona?
- Step 1: Set up your Intoxalock account
- Step 2: Get the interlock installed within 30 days
- Step 3: Keep up with calibrations every 77–90 days
- Can I get car repairs or stereo work with an interlock?
- How much does an Intoxalock cost in Arizona?
- Step 4: Removal when your requirement ends
- Bottom line
Arizona ignition interlock laws require most drivers convicted of an alcohol-related DUI to drive only vehicles equipped with a certified ignition interlock device (IID) for a set period, and the deadlines are strict. You generally have 30 days from your conviction date to get the device installed and reported to the Arizona MVD, and you'll need a calibration check every 77 to 90 days until your requirement ends.
Sound Image is an authorized Intoxalock service center at 4146 W Camelback Rd in West Phoenix. We install, calibrate and remove interlocks for drivers across the Valley, so here's a plain-English walkthrough of how the process works, with links to the official sources.
Arizona ignition interlock laws at a glance
| Rule | What it means | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 30-day install deadline | Have the device installed and reported to MVD within 30 days of your conviction date, or risk an immediate suspension | Arizona MVD FAQ |
| Calibration every 77–90 days | A certified technician checks and calibrates the device at the service center | Ariz. Admin. Code R17-5-706 |
| 72-hour early recall | After tampering, a device malfunction or four valid violations within 90 days, return within 72 hours or the device locks out | Ariz. Admin. Code R17-5-603 |
| Every vehicle you drive | An interlock is required on all vehicles you drive, including ones you drive for work | Arizona MVD FAQ |
Who needs an ignition interlock in Arizona?
In Arizona, drivers convicted of an alcohol-related DUI are generally required to install a state-approved interlock. It's a small breath-testing unit wired into the ignition that keeps the vehicle from starting if it detects alcohol, and it asks for random rolling retests while you drive.
How long you need it depends on your conviction. Intoxalock notes that the average requirement is about 12 months, and some violations require longer. Your MVD notice or court paperwork states your exact period.
According to Intoxalock, since January 1, 2023 eligible Arizona drivers can request a Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver License (SIIRDL), which allows driving with an interlock installed. Ask your attorney whether it applies to you, and see Intoxalock's Arizona requirements guide for the details.
Step 1: Set up your Intoxalock account
Start with the device provider. Open an account with Intoxalock online or call an Intoxalock state specialist at (480) 581-2981. They'll confirm your program details and pricing. Then pick a service center for the installation, like our shop on Camelback Road near 43rd Avenue.
Step 2: Get the interlock installed within 30 days
Book your installation as soon as your account is set up, so you stay well inside the 30-day window. On installation day, bring:
- The vehicle that will be equipped
- A valid photo ID
- Your Intoxalock account information
- Payment for the installation fee
- The owner's consent, if you are not the registered owner
According to Intoxalock, most installations take about 1–2 hours, depending on the vehicle. Before you leave, we walk you through the breath test, rolling retests and what the screen prompts mean.
Step 3: Keep up with calibrations every 77–90 days
Arizona's rules require a calibration check by a certified technician at the service center within every 77-to-90-day period, and proof of calibration goes to MVD. The visit itself is quick (Intoxalock says the calibration usually takes just a few minutes), and the device reminds you when one is due. We book calibrations Monday through Saturday, 10 AM to 6 PM.
Can I get car repairs or stereo work with an interlock?
Yes, but plan ahead. Intoxalock asks drivers to report vehicle service in advance in the Intoxalock app or MyAccount, before and after the appointment, so any power interruption during the work is on record. Bring a spare mouthpiece too, because the technician may need to give a breath sample to move your vehicle.
This is where a shop that does both car audio and interlocks helps. Want a new stereo, remote start or speakers while your interlock is installed? Tell us when you book, and we'll plan the wiring around the device.
How much does an Intoxalock cost in Arizona?
According to Intoxalock, the one-time installation fee typically runs $70–$150 and is paid to the service center, while the device itself is leased from Intoxalock for about $2–$3 per day in Arizona, depending on your monitoring needs. Intoxalock also offers discounts and financial assistance for those who qualify. Call us at (602) 347-8788 for our current installation fee, and Intoxalock for your exact lease pricing.
Step 4: Removal when your requirement ends
When you've completed your requirement and received approval, book a removal appointment. Don't remove or disconnect the device before you're officially cleared; check with MVD or Intoxalock first. We remove the interlock and reconnect your vehicle's original wiring so everything works as it did before.
Bottom line
Arizona ignition interlock laws come down to a few deadlines: install within 30 days of your conviction, calibrate every 77–90 days, answer any recall within 72 hours, and keep the device until you're cleared. Get those right and the process is manageable. When you're ready, see our Intoxalock installation page or book your visit below. Installations, calibrations and removals are available Monday through Saturday.
