What to Do Right After a DUI Stop in Arizona

Being pulled over on suspicion of DUI is frightening, and the minutes after the stop matter. Stay calm, keep your hands visible, and be polite — but remember you have the right to remain silent beyond providing your license, registration, and proof of insurance.

You will likely be asked to take field sobriety tests or a preliminary breath test at the roadside. These roadside tests are voluntary in Arizona, and officers use them to build probable cause for an arrest. Anything you say or do during the stop can become part of the police report, so keep conversation to a minimum.

If you are arrested, you will be asked to take a chemical test of your blood, breath, or urine. Arizona's implied consent law means refusing can lead to an automatic license suspension of twelve months, separate from any criminal case. An officer should explain this before you decide.

After release, watch your deadlines. You have a short window to request a hearing to challenge a license suspension, and the criminal case moves on its own track. Write down everything you remember about the stop while it is fresh.

This article is general information, not legal advice. A DUI attorney can explain how Arizona law applies to your specific situation.