Driver nabbed for fake ‘DOT Exempt’ plate in Arizona

The Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) Highway Patrol said that a driver was recently stopped for a “fake plate, no license, AND a warrant.”

On April 1, 2026, an AZDPS Highway Patrol trooper stopped a vehicle in the Buckeye area for “displaying a clearly fictitious license plate.”

“The plate read “DOT EXEMPT” and lacked a state name, making it immediately suspicious,” AZDPS said.

Additionally, the trooper learned that the driver’s license was suspended and that she had an active misdemeanor warrant in Maricopa County.

“She was taken into custody and booked for the warrant, along with two additional misdemeanor charges. Based on her lack of statements and other documents located inside her vehicle, it appeared she identified as a sovereign citizen and claimed she was “traveling,” not driving,” officials said.

AZDPS reminds the public that anyone who drives a vehicle on city, state, or federal roads is subject to city, state, and federal laws, including requirements to operate properly registered vehicle with a valid license.