What should I know about license suspension revocation?

Certain driving offenses, including driving under the influence of alcohol, entail a license revocation period. During this period, you will be prohibited from operating a vehicle until enough time has elapsed. You will also be required to take certain steps to reinstate your license, as explained here. 

How to have your license reinstated 

Your license does not automatically renew at the end of the revocation period. You will need to complete an investigation packet, which will be reviewed to determine whether you are eligible to reapply. If you are deemed eligible, you will be provided a Permission to Reapply Notice. This notice will list the name of a court, to which you must remit any remaining fees. Once fees have been paid, you will receive either a court clearance receipt or a Court Abstract form. These documents must then be provided to your local motor vehicle department, as well as reinstatement and application fees. Documents and fees can be remitted in person or via mail. 

Understanding the Future Financial Responsibility obligation 

If your license was revoked resulting from failure to pay a traffic ticket, the above steps are enough to have your license reinstated. However, for revocations involving drunk driving, additional steps must be taken. You may be required to install an ignition interlock device, which is an in-vehicle breathalyzer that prevents a vehicle from starting if the driver is inebriated. 

You must also obtain a Future Financial Responsibility certificate, otherwise known as an SR-22, which establishes that you are insured by a company licensed to provide insurance protection in Arizona. You can also obtain a certificate from the Arizona Office of Treasurer by providing a cash deposit or a certificate of deposit in the amount of $40,000. SR-22 must be maintained from the date you are eligible for reinstatement for a period of three years going forward.