When you receive a DUI in the state of Arizona, it can be overwhelming, stressful, emotional, and frustrating. Luckily, there’s a few things you can do prior to your court date that can help move the process along as quickly and as smooth as possible.
If you have an attorney, they may suggest that you go to a Drug & Alcohol Treatment agency and get what’s called a DUI Screening. There’s a few different names for this type of appointment; “Alcohol Screening”, “MVD Screening”, “DUI Screening”, “Restricted License Screening”, “Drug Screening”, just to name a few. Don’t worry, these names are interchangeable and are all the same type of appointment that you’ll need (NOTE: DUI Screenings are not the same as DUI Revocation Evaluations).
A DUI Alcohol Screening is the first step to ensuring your compliance with the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) – Motor Vehicles Department (MVD). There are 2 purposes for obtaining a Screening:
- The first and main purpose for the Screening is so that you can apply for a Restricted Drivers License through the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD). What is a Restricted Driver’s License? A restricted driver’s license will allow you to legally drive to and from work, school, and treatment/counseling during your driver’s license suspension.
- The second purpose for the Screening is for the Arizona Court that your case is being held out of. If convicted, the judge will order you to obtain a Screening if you have not done so already. The Screening results will help the judge with sentencing only if you are convicted of the charge.
FAQ’s:
“What should I expect during the Screening?”
The Screening appointment is a quick 30 minute interview with a trained and qualified Behavioral Health Technician. The questions asked during the interview are state-mandated and pulled directly from OBHL criteria for Alcohol Screenings. From there, the Behavioral Health Technician will report your Screening completion directly to the MVD for you and will also make recommendations for DUI classes that you’ll need to complete only if/when you are convicted of the DUI charge.
“I’m not convicted yet, do I still need to do a DUI Screening?”
- If you are not yet convicted or if your case gets dismissed through the court, you will still need to complete a DUI Screening for the Arizona MVD. The Arizona Motor Vehicles Department and the Arizona Court system are two completely different entities. As stated above, the DUI Alcohol Screening is the first step to ensuring your compliance with the MVD and getting your driver’s license back after your suspension period.
“I got a DUI in Arizona but I live out-of-state and/or have an out-of-state driver’s license, do I still need to get a Screening for the Arizona Motor Vehicles Department (MVD)?”
Yes. Depending on the state you reside in, your out-of-state driver’s license will still be suspended. You will receive a letter in the mail from the Arizona Motor Vehicles Department directing you to get a Screening. It is recommended you contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to make sure you complete all of their requirements as well. You are able to complete your screening online via webcam if you do not live in Arizona, or if you just simply want to complete it from the comfort of your own home.
“What happens after the Screening?”
Immediately after the screening, your completion will be submitted electronically to the MVD. You will receive a confirmation of this submission before you leave the office. From there, you’ll then be able to apply for your Restricted Drivers License (given you’re past the initial 30-day no-driving period).
Depending on the status of your court case, you will either be scheduled to start your assigned classes (if convicted) or if your case is pending, you’ll be assigned a pre-enrollment date (typically 1-5 months out) to begin classes at a later time if needed. If you are convicted, the Behavioral Health Technician will send proof of your Screening Completion to both your court and the MVD for you.
“How do I get started?”
Our agency is 100% ADOT/MVD and Arizona Court certified. We offer you the option to complete your Screening and Classes conveniently Online or Onsite at our Phoenix-based office. The choice is yours! Our Online platform allows you to complete your DUI Alcohol Screening from the comfort of your own home via our HIPAA compliant video-conferencing system and our classes are totally self-paced. Whether you prefer to complete your DUI services Online or Onsite, we guarantee you’ll always receive exceptional care and outstanding customer service.
Call or visit us today, we’ll here to help.
(602) 535-6468 www.stonewallinstitute.com