Street Racing in Arizona: What You Need to Know if You're Charged

Law enforcement agencies across Arizona are stepping up enforcement against illegal street racing, and many people are finding themselves facing serious criminal charges. Whether you were driving, spectating, or simply in the wrong place at the wrong time, Arizona law casts a wide net when it comes to racing-related offenses.

If you've been arrested or cited, it's critical to understand what's at stake and how an experienced criminal defense attorney can help protect your future.

What Qualifies as Street Racing in Arizona

Under A.R.S. § 28-708 (Racing on highways), it is illegal to race or participate in racing activities on public streets or highways. This law doesn't just apply to drivers—it also applies to passengers, event organizers, and even spectators who assist or encourage the activity.

Prohibited conduct includes:

• Drag racing side-by-side with another car
• Speed contests or acceleration challenges
• Exhibitions of speed (burnouts, revving, drifting)
• Testing physical endurance or attempting to set a speed record

Arizona law defines "racing" as using one or more vehicles to try to outgain or outdistance another vehicle or to prevent another vehicle from passing. "Drag racing" includes either side-by-side acceleration contests or timed speed comparisons over a selected course. Even a brief, aggressive acceleration from a stop sign—intended to impress others—can result in a charge for exhibition of speed.

Understanding A.R.S. § 28-708: Arizona's Street Racing Law

The statute provides a range of penalties based on whether the offense is a first or repeat violation:

First Offense (Class 1 Misdemeanor):

• Up to six months in jail
• A mandatory fine of at least $250
• Possible community restitution
• Up to a 90-day driver's license suspension
• Potential vehicle impoundment

Second Offense Within 24 Months (Class 6 Felony):

• A minimum of ten days in jail
• A mandatory fine of at least $500
• A one-year driver's license suspension
• Possible probation and additional community restitution

Exhibition of Speed

Exhibition of speed is also covered under A.R.S. § 28-708 and is often charged alongside or instead of street racing. It refers to behavior that demonstrates the power or speed of a vehicle—usually to attract attention or show off. This can include rapid acceleration, squealing tires, loud engine revving, or burnouts.

Officers and courts interpret this conduct broadly. Even if no one else is involved and there's no competition, you can still be charged if the officer believes you were attempting to display speed or power on a public road. Like racing, a first offense is a class 1 misdemeanor and carries many of the same penalties, including fines, possible jail time, and license suspension.

Aiding or Abetting a Race

Individuals who help organize or encourage street racing—such as blocking traffic or promoting the event—can be charged with a Class 2 misdemeanor for a first offense, or a Class 1 misdemeanor for a second offense.

License Suspension and Restricted Driving Privileges

If convicted, the court may immediately suspend your license and forward the order to the Arizona Department of Transportation. For first-time offenders, the suspension may last up to 90 days. On a second offense, the license will be suspended for one year.

After completing at least 45 consecutive days of the suspension, you may be eligible to apply for a restricted driver's license under A.R.S. § 28-144 (Driver license or permit restrictions) which allows limited driving for work, school, or court-approved obligations.

Can Street Racing Ever Be Legal?

Street racing is only lawful if the Arizona Department of Transportation gives written authorization for a controlled and organized event. This is generally limited to sanctioned parades or professional racing events that follow strict safety guidelines. Without this approval, all racing on public roads is considered illegal.

Related Criminal Charges

Street racing rarely stands alone. Officers frequently add charges that can result in more severe penalties, such as:

• Reckless Driving under A.R.S. § 28-693
• Endangerment under A.R.S. § 13-1201
• Disorderly conduct under A.R.S. § 13-2904
• Driving or actual physical control while under the influence under A.R.S. § 28-1381
• Criminal damage under A.R.S. § 13-1602
• Aggravated assault under A.R.S. § 13-1204 or manslaughter under A.R.S. § 13-1103 if someone is injured or killed

If your vehicle was involved, law enforcement may impound it for up to 20 days under A.R.S. § 28-3511, and you will be responsible for all storage and administrative fees.

How Arizona Law Enforcement is Responding

Street racing is a growing priority for Arizona law enforcement. The Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS), along with local agencies in Maricopa, Pima, and Pinal counties, has launched task forces to investigate and prosecute racing activity. Officers use unmarked vehicles, drones, surveillance footage, license plate readers, and even social media to track illegal street racing events and identify those involved.

To support these efforts, AZDPS received a $440,000 grant from the Governor's Office of Highway Safety in 2025. A portion of this funding—$40,000—is dedicated specifically to street racing enforcement, helping officers increase patrols, equipment, and targeted operations across the state.

You can read more about the grant here: AZDPS Street Racing Enforcement Grant

Once arrested, individuals often face multiple charges, court appearances, fines, and potential vehicle impoundments. With more resources now available, enforcement efforts are only increasing statewide.

What to Do if You've Been Charged

Street racing charges are serious and should not be taken lightly. A conviction can lead to jail time, steep fines, a suspended license, higher insurance rates, and a permanent criminal record that may impact your ability to work or travel.

At Chuck Franklin Law, we understand how stressful and intimidating it can be to face criminal charges for street racing or related offenses. With over 37 years of experience defending clients throughout Arizona, we know how these cases are investigated, charged, and prosecuted. From analyzing the traffic stop to challenging the evidence and negotiating with prosecutors, we are with you every step of the way. Our goal is to protect your rights, minimize the consequences, and help you move forward.

Disclaimer

This posted blog is in no way specific legal advice on any subject. It is intended to provide general information for the public.

If you need specific legal advice, call Chuck at 480-545-0700

Sources:

• A.R.S. § 28-708: Racing on highways
• A.R.S. § 28-693: Reckless driving
• A.R.S. § 28-144: Driver license or permit restrictions
• A.R.S. § 28-3511: Removal and immobilization or impoundment of vehicle
• AZDPS Street Racing Enforcement Grant
• A.R.S. § 13-2904: Disorderly conduct
• A.R.S. § 28-1381: Driving or actual physical control while under the influence
• A.R.S. § 13-1602: Criminal damage
• A.R.S. § 13-1204: Aggravated assault
• A.R.S. § 13-1103: Manslaughter