J
By
John Quigley, Legal Content Director · Reviewed against current A.R.S. · Last reviewed 2026-06-11
Most Arizona traffic tickets are civil, but they carry license points and insurance consequences — and some serious offenses are criminal. Knowing which is which changes how you should respond.
What Arizona law says
A.R.S. § 28-3001 — Establishes Arizona’s driver-license and traffic-regulation framework administered by the MVD.
A.R.S. § 28-3306 — Grounds for license suspension, including accumulating too many points.
A.R.S. § 28-693 — Reckless driving, a criminal traffic offense rather than a civil violation.
How traffic violation defense cases work in Maricopa County
Civil traffic matters are heard in city or justice courts; criminal traffic offenses (such as reckless or aggravated driving) can rise to Superior Court. Eligible drivers may attend Defensive Driving School once a year to dismiss a civil citation.
Frequently asked questions
Is a speeding ticket criminal in Arizona?
Usually it is a civil violation, but excessive speed, reckless, or aggravated driving can be criminal.
How do points affect my license?
Points accumulate on your MVD record and can lead to suspension under A.R.S. § 28-3306; they can also raise insurance rates.
Can I take traffic school?
Eligible drivers may attend Defensive Driving School once per 12 months to dismiss a qualifying civil citation.
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Disclaimer: AZAttorneyFinder is an independent attorney directory, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. This page is general legal information about Arizona law, reviewed against the Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.). It is not a substitute for advice from a licensed Arizona attorney about your specific situation. Statutes change — verify current law before relying on it.