If you’ve been pulled over in Arizona, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is: “How much is a speeding ticket in Arizona?” Whether you’re a new driver, a visitor, or a resident trying to stay informed, this guide will help you understand:
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How speeding ticket fines are calculated in Arizona
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The difference between civil and criminal traffic violations
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How speeding tickets affect your license and insurance
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What to do if you want to challenge or dismiss a ticket
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How unpaid tickets impact your driving record and credit
Types of Traffic Tickets in Arizona
Arizona traffic tickets fall into two categories:
Civil Traffic Violations (Most Common)
These typically result in fines and license points but not jail time.
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Speeding (1–25 mph over limit) – 3 points
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Seatbelt Violations – 0 points (fined only)
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Texting While Driving – 0 points (but added penalties)
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Failing to Obey Traffic Signs/Lights – 4 points
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Vehicle Equipment Violations – 0 points
Criminal Traffic Violations (Serious Offenses)
These carry heavier fines, potential jail time, and license suspension.
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Aggravated Speeding (20+ mph over) – 3 points + court penalties
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Speeding in a School Zone – 3 points + higher fine
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DUI (Driving Under the Influence) – 8 points + severe penalties
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Driving on a Suspended License – Additional penalties
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Reckless or Aggressive Driving – 8 points + possible license loss
⚠️ Accumulating 8 or more points within 12 months can result in license suspension or mandatory defensive driving school.
*only for Arizona customers
How Much Is a Speeding Ticket in Arizona?
Civil Speeding Ticket Fines
Speeding ticket costs in Arizona vary by how fast you were going over the limit:
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1–10 mph over: $130
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11–15 mph over: $180
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16–20 mph over: $280
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21–25 mph over: $380
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Other civil infractions start at $168
Most civil speeding violations also add 3 points to your license.
Criminal Speeding and DUI Penalties
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Criminal Speeding: Up to $500 + court costs, and possible jail time
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DUI (First Offense): $1,250 minimum + license suspension
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DUI (Second Offense): $3,000 fine, jail time, longer suspension
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Extreme DUI: $2,500–$3,000 + 30 to 120 days in jail
How to Pay a Traffic Ticket in Arizona
You can resolve a traffic ticket without going to court if it’s a civil offense. Here are your options:
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Online: Use the AZCourtPay portal
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In-Person Cash Payments: At participating stores like Walmart and CVS (limit $1,000)
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Mail: Send a money order or cashier’s check to the appropriate court with your citation or case number
If your ticket is criminal, you must appear in court.
*only for Arizona customers
Can You Challenge a Speeding Ticket in Arizona?
Yes. If you believe your ticket was issued in error, you can contest it through a civil traffic hearing. Steps include:
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Submit a written request to the court (in-person or by mail)
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Plead “Not Guilty” and request a hearing
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Collect evidence (photos, videos, GPS data)
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Bring witnesses if needed
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Prepare to challenge the officer’s version of events
Legal counsel is optional but can be helpful in complex cases.
How Speeding Tickets Affect Your License and Insurance
Arizona operates on a points-based system that impacts your driving record and potentially your insurance rates:
License Suspension Thresholds
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8–12 points in 12 months: May require Traffic Survival School
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13–17 points: 3-month suspension
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18–23 points: 6-month suspension
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24+ points: 1-year suspension
Points stay on your record for up to 5–14 years depending on the offense, even after attending Traffic Survival School.
Insurance Impact
Speeding tickets can raise your insurance premium by 20–30% on average, especially if the violation was criminal or involved an accident.
What Happens If You Ignore a Speeding Ticket?
Ignoring a traffic ticket in Arizona can lead to serious consequences:
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License suspension
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Late payment fees
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Collections agency involvement
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Tax refund garnishment by the Arizona Department of Revenue
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Issuance of a bench warrant for your arrest (for criminal tickets)
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Towing and 30-day impoundment of your vehicle
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Higher auto insurance premiums due to being labeled a high-risk driver
How to Handle a Ticket the Right Way
Here’s how to manage a traffic ticket without worsening the situation:
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Pay it before the deadline via approved channels
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Request a hearing if you plan to contest it
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Explore defensive driving school to reduce points and penalties
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Consult a legal expert if it’s a criminal charge
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Act quickly to avoid additional fines or license penalties
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If your ticket involved a crash or vehicle damage, make sure your car is safe before driving again. NuVision Auto Glass provides:
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ADAS recalibration after glass installation
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Same-day mobile service across Arizona
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Up to $375 cashback and a free dinner at Rodizio Grill (for AZ customers with insurance)
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Final Thoughts
Understanding how much a speeding ticket costs in Arizona can help you make smarter decisions on the road. Whether you’re contesting a ticket or paying one off, act quickly to minimize the legal, financial, and insurance impact.
And if you’ve been in an accident or need auto glass repairs, don’t ignore vehicle safety. Contact NuVision Auto Glass for affordable, professional help backed by expert service and insurance-friendly pricing.
FAQs On Speeding Tickets in Arizona
What is the fine for going 15 mph over the limit in Arizona?
Expect to pay around $180–$235. The final cost depends on the county and any added surcharges.
Can I pay a speeding ticket without going to court?
Yes, for civil violations. Pay online, in person, or by mail. Court is required only for criminal charges.
What’s the penalty for criminal speeding in Arizona?
Up to 30 days in jail, $500 fine, 3 points, and higher insurance rates.
How long does a speeding ticket stay on your Arizona driving record?
Typically 12 months, but it may affect your insurance for up to 5 years.
