Arizona Driver's License

Class A CDL

A Class A CDL is needed in Arizona to operate combination vehicles, such as a truck and trailer. This license is required if the combined weight rating (GCWR) is 26,001 pounds or more and the trailer itself has a weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more. For example, driving a large semi-truck with a heavy trailer requires a Class A CDL.

Class B CDL

Drivers with a Class B CDL in Arizona can operate any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, including large trucks or buses. A trailer can be towed with this license, but only if the trailer's GVWR is 10,000 pounds or fewer.

Class C CDL

A Class C CDL in Arizona is required for vehicles with a GVWR of 26,000 pounds or less if they transport hazardous materials needing placards or if they can carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver. To obtain this license, drivers must also have a passenger (P) or hazardous materials endorsement (HME).

Class D

A Class D or operator license permits driving a standard car or SUV for personal use in Arizona. It is the most common type of driver's license for everyday drivers who do not need to operate motorcycles or commercial vehicles. Applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply for this license.

Class G

An Arizona Class G or graduated driver's license is issued to individuals aged 16 to 18. This license allows them to drive any vehicle that does not require a motorcycle or commercial driver's license but with certain restrictions. For example, young drivers with a Class G license can drive a car or SUV but may face curfews or passenger limits.

Class M

One must obtain a Class M license or endorsement to ride a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle in Arizona legally. Applicants must be at least 16 years old to apply for this license.

Arizona Driving Credentials

Driving credentials in Arizona encompass a range of licenses and permits for drivers in the state, which include:

• Arizona Travel ID - This credential, compliant with the federal REAL ID Act of 2005, serves as a driver's license and an identification card. Starting May 3, 2023, domestic air travel security checkpoints are required alongside a U.S. passport or other federally approved identification.
• Under 21 Driver License - With a vertical format, this type of license indicates the licensee's approaching 21st birthday. It's issued to drivers under 21 years old.
• Instruction Permit - This permit is available to teenagers aged at least 15 and six months. It allows for graduated and/or motorcycle instruction. The instruction permit is valid for 12 months and requires the permit holder to be accompanied by a licensed driver over 21 who sits beside them.
• CDL Permit - The CDL permit is designed for commercial driving and is valid for six months. It is obtainable by applicants aged 18 or older.

Written Test

Individuals seeking to obtain an Arizona driver's license may need to take a written test in addition to meeting the age requirements.

The written test for a regular driver's license consists of 30 multiple-choice questions. It is taken at a computer workstation with a touch screen, and audio assistance is available if needed. A score of 80% or higher is required to pass the examination.

To prepare for the written test, individuals can access Practice Tests online, which provide sample questions and help familiarize them with the format. The written test is in various languages, including:

• English
• Arabic
• German
• Mandarin
• Vietnamese
• Spanish
• Russian
• Italian
• Tagalog
• French
• Korean

If an individual holds a valid driver's license from another state, they may not be required to take the written test in most cases. However, there are situations where a written test may still be necessary.

Verbal Knowledge Test

In Arizona, obtaining a driver's license may involve taking a verbal knowledge test instead of a written exam in certain circumstances.

This option is available for individuals who declare themselves unable to read or have low reading proficiency. It can also be considered if someone has failed multiple attempts at the written test or reads in a foreign language for which a written test is unavailable.

The verbal knowledge test is conducted by appointment at the local motor vehicle office. Applicants can visit a local office to schedule an appointment for this type of exam. Alternatively, a computerized audio version of the written knowledge test is available in some offices without an appointment.

Road Tests

In addition to a written/verbal knowledge test, individuals are required to undergo a road test to assess their ability to safely operate a vehicle.

During the road test, applicants will drive a designated route with various traffic situations. An examiner will accompany them in the vehicle and provide directions.

The examiner will evaluate the applicant's performance based on specific actions and overall competence in operating the vehicle safely. The instructions given during the road test will be in English.

Arizona has two options for taking the road test: MVD Locations (by appointment only) or Authorized Third Party Locations. When scheduling an appointment, use the AZ MVD Now system. Remember that road tests may be suspended due to adverse weather conditions or safety concerns.

A parent or legal guardian must accompany teen drivers applying for a driver's license during the road test. Additionally, teens must have held an instruction permit for at least six months or have passed a written test if they are over 18 before being eligible to take the road test.

Furthermore, when obtaining a driver's license in Arizona, reading the "Before You Take the Road Test" guideline of the AZ MVD is recommended.

Documentary Requirements for Class D Driver's License Applicants

To apply for a Class D driver's license in Arizona, applicants must provide several documents to prove their identity, Social Security number, and residency. If unsure about what to bring, applicants can call an authorized third-party provider or an MVD office for guidance.

Proof of Identity

To prove identity, applicants need one of the following original documents:

• Original birth certificate
• U.S. passport
• U.S. certificate of birth abroad
• U.S. certificate of naturalization or citizenship
• Enhanced tribal card
• Active duty, reserve, or retired U.S. military ID card

Social Security Number

In addition to proof of identity, applicants must bring one document that shows their Social Security number. Acceptable documents include:

• Social Security card
• SSA-1099 form
• W-2 form
• Non-SSA 1099 form
• Pay stub

If a replacement Social Security card is needed, applicants can request one through the Social Security Administration website.

Proof of Residency

Proof of Arizona residency is also required. Two printed documents, such as utility bills, credit cards, or bank statements, are needed to prove Arizona residency. Other acceptable items include mail issued by a business, organization, or government agency.

Individuals lacking the necessary residency documents must fill out an Arizona Residency Affidavit and provide extra evidence of residency.

An individual is an Arizona resident if any of the following conditions apply:

• Registered to vote in Arizona
• Works in Arizona (excluding seasonal agricultural work)
• Has a business with an office in Arizona that bases and operates vehicles in the state
• Places children in school without paying non-resident tuition rates
• Obtains a state license or pays school tuition fees at the same rate as an Arizona resident
• Remains in Arizona for seven months or more in a calendar year, regardless of residential status
• Operates a business that transports goods or passengers within Arizona

Students outside Arizona taking seven or more semester hours are not classified as Arizona residents, regardless of their employment status.

Additionally, active-duty military members stationed in Arizona and eligible for exemption under the Service Members Civil Relief Act of 2003 are not considered Arizona residents.

Proof of a Legal Name Change

In certain situations, individuals applying for a Class D driver's license in Arizona may have a different name than what is displayed on their primary form of identification. In such cases, evidence of a legal name change is necessary.

To do so, applicants should have updated their name with the Social Security Administration at least 24 hours before applying for a driver's license. Once done, they can present one of the following documents to verify the name change:

• Marriage license or certificate
• Court-ordered name change document
• Adoption decree
• Divorce decree

Fees for Obtaining a Driver's License in Arizona

Obtaining a driver's license in Arizona involves paying specific fees, which vary depending on the applicant's age and the identification requested.

A regular driver's license fee is $25 for those aged 16 to 39. Individuals between 40 and 44 pay $20, while those aged 45 to 49 pay $15.

If ID cards are needed, the fee is $12 for individuals aged 0 to 64, while those aged 65 and older and recipients of Supplemental Security Income are exempt from fees.

For those seeking a Travel ID, which is a more secure form of identification, the original issuance and renewal fee is $25.

Other fees may apply when obtaining a driver's license in Arizona. For complete fee information, refer to the "Fees (Driver License)" page on the AZ DOT official website.

Accepted payment methods include cash, credit cards, checks, traveler's checks, and money orders made payable to the AZ MVD.

For more details on acquiring a standard Arizona driver's license, refer to the Arizona Driver License Manual. Meanwhile, for getting a state CDL, check the Arizona Commercial Driver License Manual. Those interested in obtaining a Class M driver's license should study the Arizona Motorcycle Operator Manual.

License Renewal

Arizona offers one of the most extended preliminary renewal periods in the U.S. Except for Travel IDs, which require renewal every eight years, individuals only need to renew their driver's license once they reach the age of 65. After that, the license must be renewed every five years.

The renewal process can be initiated up to six months before the current license expires. Most individuals can renew their driver's license online through the AZ MVD Now system or by visiting an MVD or Authorized Third-Party office in person.

For online renewal, users can sign in to their account at the AZ MVD Now system, access the "Renew Now" option in the "My Credential" box, and follow the instructions provided.

If an account has yet to be activated, individuals with an Arizona driver's license can do so, as everyone already has an account ready for activation.

When an office visit is required for license renewal, appointments can be scheduled through the AZ MVD Now system.

The renewal fee for a driver's license in Arizona is $10.

License Replacement

There are several circumstances where an individual may need to replace their Arizona driver's license. If the license has been lost or stolen, a replacement will be necessary. Additionally, a replacement is required if the license has been damaged or the person's personal information, such as their name or address, has changed.

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged driver's license in Arizona, an individual can utilize the online Driver License Replacement service through the AZ MVD Now system.

If an in-person method is preferred, visit an MVD or Authorized Third Party office and request a replacement there. Bring any available documentation, such as a police report in case of theft, to support a replacement request.

The fee for replacing a lost or stolen driver's license or ID card is $12