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How do I fight a speeding ticket in Arizona?

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: 2026-05-17

Arizona offers one of the most driver-friendly diversion programs in the country.

1. Pay vs. Contest

  • Pay: admission; civil violation goes on MVD record, 3 points assessed.
  • Defensive Driving School (DDS): under ARS § 28-3392, available once every 12 months for any civil moving violation if it didn't involve a crash with serious injury/death or a CDL violation. Complete a state-certified 4-hour course — the citation is dismissed with no conviction, no points, no insurance impact.
  • Civil hearing: preponderance standard; officer must testify or submit affidavit.
  • Criminal trial: for ARS § 28-701.02 Criminal Speeding, full criminal procedure — beyond a reasonable doubt, right to jury (if jail exposure exceeds 30 days in some courts).

    • 2. Speed Limits & Criminal Threshold

    ARS § 28-701 sets the basic rule; § 28-701.02 Criminal Speeding (Class 3 misdemeanor):

  • 20+ mph over a posted limit in business or residential district
  • 35+ mph approaching a school crossing
  • 85+ mph anywhere on a public highway

    • Reckless driving (ARS § 28-693) — reckless disregard, Class 2 misdemeanor, 8 points, possible 90-day suspension.

    3. Points & Suspension

    MVD point system (per § 28-3306):

  • 3 points: most speeding (civil) and criminal speeding
  • 8 points: reckless driving, DUI, leaving scene

    • 8+ points in 12 months = MVD action (Traffic Survival School, suspension, or restricted license).

    4. Defenses & Discovery

  • Civil rules of procedure (RCP Traffic): subpoena officer and radar/laser calibration log (typically 30-day cycle).
  • Photo radar (some AZ jurisdictions): challenge via lack of personal service within 90 days (ARS § 28-1592).

    • 5. CDL Holders

    Ineligible to use DDS to mask a CMV conviction (49 CFR § 384.226).

    This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • Criminal speeding under ARS § 28-701.02 (20+ over residential, 85+ mph)
    • CDL holder facing any moving violation
    • License suspension imminent at 8+ points/12 months
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 28-701
    • Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 28-701.02
    • Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 28-693
    • Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 28-3306
    • Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 28-3392
    • Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 28-1592

    This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.