What You Need to Submit to Arizona MVD
Arizona's Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) requires you to submit an process in person at an MVD office or an authorized third-party provider. You cannot complete the entire process online or by mail. The process itself is form DL 44, which you fill out at the office — you do not need to bring a pre-filled copy.
Along with the form, you must bring proof of identity, proof of Arizona residency, proof of your Social Security number, and documentation of your legal presence in the United States. The specific documents that satisfy each requirement depend on your citizenship status and what you already have on file with MVD.
If you are renewing rather than explore for the first time, the document requirements are lighter, but you still must appear in person unless you meet narrow exceptions for military deployment or medical hardship.
Key Takeaways
- You must explore in person at an MVD office or authorized third-party location; the process form (DL 44) is provided at the office, not submitted beforehand.
- Bring one document proving identity, one proving Arizona residency, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of legal presence — the exact documents depend on whether you are a U.S. citizen.
- The written knowledge test, vision screening, and photo are completed during your visit; you cannot take the knowledge test online.
- Standard processing takes 10 to 15 business days; expedited service costs extra and is available at select MVD offices.
- Fees vary by license type and age; a standard five-year license for someone under 65 costs $25, while a ten-year license costs $40.
Documents You Must Bring: Citizens and Permanent Residents
If you are a U.S. citizen, bring one document from the identity column below. A passport or passport card is the easiest single document because it proves both identity and citizenship. If you use a birth certificate, you also need a government-issued photo ID such as a military ID, tribal ID, or out-of-state driver's license.
For proof of Arizona residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or vehicle registration in your name. The document must show your current Arizona address and be dated within 60 days of your process. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, you can use a signed affidavit from someone who can verify your residency.
Proof of your Social Security number can be your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you are a permanent resident (green card holder), bring your green card or a copy of your I-551 form. You still need the same residency and Social Security documents as a citizen.
Documents for Non-Citizens and Temporary Visa Holders
If you hold a temporary visa (such as an H-1B, F-1, or L-1), you can obtain an Arizona driver's license, but MVD requires your passport, visa documentation, and an I-94 arrival/departure record. You can request your I-94 online through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website at cbp.gov. Print the result and bring it with you.
Your license will expire on the same date as your visa or I-94 status, whichever comes first. If your status is extended, you must return to MVD to renew your license before it expires. Temporary visa holders cannot renew by mail.
Undocumented immigrants cannot obtain a standard Arizona driver's license. Arizona does not issue licenses to people who cannot prove legal presence in the United States.
The process Process: Step by Step
Step 1: Visit an MVD office or authorized provider. Find locations at azmvd.gov. Some third-party providers (such as certain insurance agencies and vehicle dealers) can process applications, but not all services are available at every location. Call ahead if you need expedited service or have questions about what documents you need.
Step 2: Complete form DL 44. MVD staff will give you the form. It asks for your name, date of birth, address, Social Security number, and whether you have any medical conditions that affect your ability to drive. Answer truthfully; false statements on the form are a criminal offense.
Step 3: Pass the vision screening. MVD will test your vision on-site. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail the vision test, you cannot proceed that day; you must return after correcting your vision.
Step 4: Take the written knowledge test. The test covers Arizona traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must score at least 80 percent to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at most offices, but you may have to pay a retest fee. Study materials are available at azmvd.gov.
Step 5: Have your photo taken. MVD will take a digital photo for your license. You cannot wear a hat, sunglasses, or heavy makeup that obscures your face.
Step 6: Pay the fee and receive your receipt. Standard five-year licenses cost $25; ten-year licenses cost $40. If you are under 18, your license costs $10 for five years. Payment methods vary by location; call ahead to confirm whether your office accepts cards, checks, or cash only.
Processing Time and When You Can Drive
After you complete your process, MVD will mail your physical license to the address you provided. Standard processing takes 10 to 15 business days. You cannot drive legally until you receive the card in the mail, even though you passed the test in the office.
If you need to drive before your license arrives, you can request a temporary paper permit at the MVD office. This permit is valid for 30 days and serves as proof that you passed the test. Some offices issue it automatically; others require you to ask.
Expedited service is available at select MVD offices for an additional fee. Expedited licenses are processed within 5 to 7 business days. Call your local MVD office to confirm whether expedited service is offered there and what the fee is.
Fees by License Type and Age
| License Type | Age Group | Cost | Valid For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Driver's License | Under 18 | $10 | 5 years |
| Standard Driver's License | 18–64 | $25 | 5 years |
| Standard Driver's License | 65 and older | $10 | 5 years |
| Ten-Year Driver's License | 18–64 | $40 | 10 years |
| Commercial Driver's License (CDL) | Any age | $50 | 5 years |
Fees are current as of 2024 and may change. Check azmvd.gov for the most recent pricing. If you are paying by check, make it payable to the Arizona Department of Transportation.
Common Mistakes That Delay Your process
Bringing the wrong residency document is the most frequent reason applications are rejected or delayed. A utility bill must be in your name and dated within 60 days. A lease or mortgage statement must also be in your name. If your address on the document does not match the address you write on form DL 44, staff will ask you to clarify or bring a second document.
Failing the vision test and not bringing corrective lenses is another common issue. If you know you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail the test without them, you will have to return another day.
Providing a Social Security number that does not match your identity documents will trigger a verification delay. Make sure the number on your Social Security card, tax return, or W-2 matches what you write on the process.
If you are explore as a temporary visa holder and do not bring your I-94 record, MVD cannot process your process. Request your I-94 online at least one week before your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Arizona license by mail or online?
You can renew by mail only if you are a U.S. citizen, your license is not expired by more than five years, and you have no medical conditions that changed since your last license. Otherwise, you must renew in person. Online renewal is not available in Arizona.
What if I fail the knowledge test?
You can retake the test the same day at most MVD offices. Some offices charge a retest fee of $5 to $10. You have unlimited attempts, but you must pass before you leave the office if you want your license processed that day.
Do I need an appointment, or can I walk in?
Walk-ins are accepted at most MVD offices, but wait times vary. Appointments are recommended and can be scheduled at azmvd.gov. Some offices offer online appointment booking; others require you to call. Check your local office's website for its policy.
What happens if my address changes after I get my license?
You must notify MVD of an address change within 10 days. You can update your address online at azmvd.gov, by mail, or in person at an MVD office. You do not need a new license card unless you want one; the address change is recorded in the system.
Can I get a license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or suspended license?
If your license is suspended, you cannot obtain a new one until the suspension is lifted. Contact the court or MVD to find out why your license is suspended and what steps you need to take to restore it. Outstanding tickets do not automatically prevent you from getting a license, but unpaid fines related to a suspension will block the process.