How to Get and Renew an Arizona Driver’s License: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Whether you’re renewing your license or are a first-time applicant, there is a process to obtaining an Arizona driver license. Understanding the requirements and having the necessary documentation ready can save you time and ensure you comply with Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) rules. See our step-by-step guide to getting or renewing a State of Arizona driver’s license.
Understanding Eligibility Requirements for an Arizona Driver’s License
To qualify for an Arizona driver license, you must meet specific criteria:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Complete a driver’s license application
- Provide proof of your identity
- Provide proof of residency in Arizona
- Pass the applicable vision, written, and driving tests
Gather Necessary Documents for Application
Once you qualify for an Arizona driver’s license, it’s time to gather the necessary application documentation. You will need:
Proof of Identity
Depending on whether you’re getting a Travel ID or a non-travel driver’s license, there are a few acceptable documents you can use to prove who you are.
For a Travel ID in Arizona:
- Original or certified copy of your birth certificate
- U.S. certificate of birth abroad
- U.S. passport or passport card (not expired)
- Permanent resident card or resident alien card
- USCIS employment authorization documents (not expired)
- I-94 form with a current foreign passport and current U.S. Visa
- U.S. certification of naturalization
- U.S. certificate of citizenship
As of May 7, 2025, you must have an Arizona Travel ID for domestic air travel. If you’re getting a driver's license that is not for federal identification, you can use all the above documents or additional forms of identification, including a Tribal ID.
Your Social Security Number
Applicants must provide a Social Security number for driver’s licenses or special licenses in Arizona. This is used to verify your identity and comply with state and federal child support laws.
2 Documents Showing Proof of Arizona Residency
Have two separate documents that confirm your Arizona residency. These can be mailed documents from a business or government agency, such as utility bills or credit card statements.
Proof of Name Change
If you changed your name and it does not match your primary identification document, you can bring one of the following to confirm your legal name change:
- Marriage license or certificate
- Divorce decree
- Court-ordered name change
- Adoption decree
Applying for a New Arizona Driver’s License
Follow these steps to get your Arizona driver’s license as an adult.
1. Complete the Application Form
If you are over 18 years old, first fill out the license application. You can do this online or visit an MVD office.
2. Provide the Required Documentation
Bring the necessary documents to an MVD office or an authorized third-party provider that works with the MVD.
3. Take a Vision Test
You must pass a vision test to show your uncorrected vision is 20/40 or better in one of your eyes. Otherwise, you’ll have a “B” restriction on your license, meaning you must wear contact lenses or glasses while driving.
4. Take the Written Knowledge Test
Passing a written test confirms you understand the rules of the road. You can find an Arizona driver’s license practice test online to study before your office visit.
5. Take the Road Test
Make an appointment for a road test to demonstrate your competence behind the wheel. Applicants need an operating vehicle with current car registration and liability insurance for road tests.
6. Pay the Licensing Fee
You can pay the fee for your Arizona driver's license with a credit card, debit card, or eCheck.
7. Get a Temporary Card
If you pass all the requirements, the MVD will issue a temporary license. It should take about two weeks to receive your permanent license in the mail.
Transferring an Existing Driver’s License to Arizona
If you already have a valid driver’s license from another state, you do not have to take a written or road test. However, you must:
- Complete the application form.
- Provide the required documents.
- Pass a vision test.
- Turn in your current license from the other state.
- Pay the licensing fee.
Obtaining a Driver’s Permit for Younger Applicants
If you are younger than 18, you must pass the Arizona driver’s license permit test to practice driving with a licensed driver who is at least 21. Here’s how:
- Fill out the application, including parental or guardian consent.
- Provide the required documents.
- Pass a vision test.
- Pay the driver’s permit fee.
- Pass the written knowledge test.
You can apply for a graduated driver’s license after holding your driver’s permit for six months. A graduated license allows you to drive unsupervised with some restrictions, such as not driving between midnight and 5:00 a.m.
Renewing an Arizona Driver’s License
Arizona has one of the longest initial renewal periods of all the states. Most drivers don’t have to go through driver license renewals until they turn 65! After that, you’ll need to review every five years. However, drivers with an Arizona Travel ID must update their license every eight years.
The renewal process typically involves a vision test, a new license photo, a renewal fee, and possibly a road test. If you fail to renew your license and are caught, it will appear on your driving record and could impact insurance rates.
Tips for Navigating the Application Process
If you’re applying for an Arizona driver’s license, here are tips to get through it quickly and painlessly:
- Complete the application form online to save time.
- Find out what documents you need and gather them before you visit the MVD office.
- Study for the written test with practice exams that are available online.
- Practice driving often and consistently to feel confident behind the wheel.
Don’t Forget Your Arizona Car Insurance
Before you hit the road, make sure you’re protected with Arizona car insurance coverage. Insurance prices change every day, so the best way to get the right insurance for the right price is to compare and shop often. It only takes a few minutes to get a free custom comparison with Everquote.