Arizona Proposes Speed Limiters Instead of License Suspension

Arizona lawmakers are considering a bill that would let repeat speeding offenders keep their driver’s licenses—if they agree to have a speed limiter installed in their vehicles. The device would act like an “electronic ankle monitor” for cars, preventing drivers from exceeding posted limits.

The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Quang Nguyen, wants to give motorists a choice: either temporarily surrender their driving privileges or install a speed-control system. The technology uses GPS and cellular networks to determine the current speed limit and restrict engine power—even if the driver floors the gas pedal.

Installation is expected to cost around $250, with a daily subscription fee of $4. To prevent unsafe situations, the limiter would include an “emergency overtake” mode—allowing drivers to exceed the limit by up to 10 mph three times a month.

The measure would apply not only to habitual speeders but also to those convicted of street racing or aggressive driving. Similar programs already exist in Virginia and Washington.

Critics warn that the technology is still imperfect and could misread speed limits, creating dangerous situations. Privacy advocates also raise concerns about excessive government surveillance and data collection.