If you’ve ever been pulled over and ticketed for being only slightly over the speed limit, you might have considered installing a radar detector. These devices serve as a preventative measure against accidental overspeeding.
The question is, are radar detectors legal in Arizona? Fortunately, you can legally install one in your vehicle, although there are some caveats to this.
In this article, we’ll discuss what these regulations and restrictions entail so that you can use a radar detector properly, without getting into trouble.
Relevant Restrictions
Despite the fact that it is legal for you to use radar detectors in your vehicle when you’re driving in Arizona, there are some situations in which it is prohibited.
The restrictions have to do with where in your car you’re mounting the radar detector and using it in a military area. Find out more details below.
Windshield Mounting
Many states prohibit the use of radar detectors if they’re mounted on your windshield. This is done for safety reasons.
But in Arizona, as long as you mount the device as close to the dashboard base as possible, in a way that does not block your field of vision, you won’t have a problem with the authorities.
This generally applies to all such devices and stickers you might want to use.
Privately Owned vs Commercially Owned Vehicles
Privately owned vehicles are allowed to use radar detectors, but this usage is limited when it comes to commercially owned vehicles.
For instance, if your commercial vehicle weighs in excess of 10,000 lbs, you won’t be permitted to use a radar detector.
Driving in a Military Area
All 50 states prohibit the use of radar detectors in military areas, so if you have one in your vehicle, you should remember to uninstall and disable it if you’re about to pass through military territory.
This has to do with radar detectors causing interference with other military equipment that utilizes similar technology.
Will I Be Pulled Over for Using a Radar Detector?
Chances are low when it comes to you being pulled over for using a radar detector, especially since they are legal in Arizona.
Of course, lack of adherence to its usage conditions and restrictions might result in you being pulled over and ticketed.
In What States Are Radar Detectors Illegal?
The only two states in the United States that make radar detectors illegal are Washington, D.C. and Virginia.
In the latter, if you have the power off and the device uninstalled, this might pull you through, but it is better for you to confirm the law if you happen to be traveling to one of these states.
Additional Information
Radar detectors are often frowned upon due to the belief that they might actually distract the driver instead of helping them. However, radar detectors can be useful and safe if used correctly.
Here are some additional factors to consider before installing a radar detector in your car:
- There are some alternatives to radar detectors. You can download an app on your phone or make use of GPS. Other devices like laser interrupters and cameras can depend on their legality.
- Radar detectors and radar jammers are very different in terms of legality and function. While detectors detect and relay radar signals to you, radar jammers can interrupt radar frequencies.
- Be warned that the police can detect your radar detector if they have one of their own.
State of Arizona Info
Arizona is the 6th largest state in the U.S. and is located in the southwestern region of the country.
The state is home to several forests, canyons, and even deserts. It is the 15th most populous state in the country.
Population: 7,276,316
Capital: Phoenix
Area: 113,990 sq mi
Registered vehicles: 2,371,199
Total lane miles: 131,356
Number of highways: 6