If you or a loved one are researching a do not resuscitate form Arizona residents can legally use, you’ve come to the right place. As an attorney who has drafted hundreds of advance directives and end-of-life documents for Arizona families over the past twelve years, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to have an accurate, state-specific DNR that actually works when seconds count. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll give you a free downloadable Arizona DNR template (updated for 2025 requirements), explain every legal requirement under Arizona Revised Statutes Title 36, and walk you through completing and distributing the form so emergency responders will honor it.
A Do Not Resuscitate order—commonly called a DNR—is a medical order signed by a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant that instructs emergency medical services (EMS), hospitals, and other healthcare providers not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if your heart stops or you stop breathing. In Arizona, the official name is the “Prehospital Medical Care Directive,” but most people still search for “do not resuscitate form Arizona” because the bright orange form is universally recognized by first responders.
Unlike a living will that expresses general wishes, an Arizona DNR is an actionable medical order that must be on the specific state-approved form and printed on orange paper (or an orange bracelet) to be valid in the field.
Under Arizona law (ARS § 36-3251), the following individuals may execute a prehospital DNR:
Source: Arizona Revised Statutes § 36-3251, available at azleg.gov/ars/36/03251.htm
Over the years I’ve reviewed countless invalid DNRs brought to emergency rooms. Here are the non-negotiable requirements:
Click below to download my attorney-reviewed, completely free Arizona DNR template in both fillable PDF and Word formats. I personally update this template every January to reflect any statutory or ADHS changes.
Download Arizona Do Not Resuscitate Form – PDF (Fillable)
Download Arizona Do Not Resuscitate Form – Word (.docx)
These files are 100% free, no email required, and mirror the exact form published by the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Follow these steps to create a legally binding document:
I cannot stress this enough—having a valid DNR is useless if paramedics can’t find it. Best practices I give every client:
| Document | Controls CPR? | Needs Physician Signature? | Must Be Orange? | Works Outside Hospital? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona DNR (Prehospital Directive) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Living Will | No (only general wishes) | No | No | No |
| Health Care Power of Attorney | Only if agent presents it | No | No | Sometimes |
Many of my clients execute all three documents together for maximum protection.
No, but they are inexpensive ($20–$50) and worth every penny.
Yes—simply destroy all copies and notify your doctor. You can also write “VOID” across the form in large red letters.
Unfortunately, no. Arizona Administrative Code R9-19-302 requires the specific orange form or bracelet.
Generally no. Arizona only recognizes its own orange form or bracelets purchased through approved vendors.
This article and the downloadable do not resuscitate form Arizona template are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal or medical advice. Laws change, and individual circumstances vary. Always consult a licensed Arizona attorney or your personal physician before executing any advance directive. I strongly recommend having your completed DNR reviewed by the signing medical provider to ensure compliance.
Completing a do not resuscitate form Arizona residents can rely on is one of the most loving gifts you can give your family. It removes guesswork during the most emotional moments and ensures your wishes are respected. Download the free 2025 Arizona DNR template above, discuss your values with your doctor, and put the bright orange form where it will be seen. Your future self—and your loved ones—will thank you.
References:
Arizona Revised Statutes Title 36, Chapter 32 – Living Wills and Health Care Directives
Arizona Department of Health Services – Emergency Medical Services: azdhs.gov
IRS guidance on medical decision documents (for tax-dependent purposes): irs.gov