What an Arizona DOT driver's license is and who gets one

An Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) driver's license is the standard photo ID that allows you to drive legally in Arizona. It is issued by ADOT, the state agency that manages vehicle registration and licensing. Almost every person who drives in Arizona holds one, whether they are a resident or a non-resident.

You need an Arizona driver's license if you live in the state and drive on public roads. Non-residents can drive with a valid license from another state or country for a limited time, but if you move to Arizona or plan to stay longer than a few months, you must get an Arizona license. The license proves you have passed a written test on traffic laws, a vision test, and a driving skills test.

Arizona also issues commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) for people who drive large trucks or buses for work, and motorcycle endorsements for riders. This article covers the standard passenger vehicle license; the rules for CDLs and endorsements are separate.

Key Takeaways

  • You must get an Arizona driver's license within 10 days of moving to the state or becoming a resident.
  • ADOT requires proof of identity, proof of Arizona residency, and proof of your Social Security number before you can take the written and driving tests.
  • You will pass a vision screening and written test on traffic laws at an ADOT office, then schedule a separate driving test with an examiner.
  • A standard Arizona driver's license is valid for 12 years if you are under 65, and costs around $25 to $35 depending on how long you want it to last.
  • Arizona offers a Real ID-compliant license that costs more but allows you to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings without a passport.

Documents you need to bring to ADOT

ADOT requires three categories of documents before you can test: proof of identity, proof of Arizona residency, and proof of your Social Security number. You cannot take the written or driving test without all three.

Proof of identity means a document that shows your name, date of birth, and photo. A valid passport, passport card, or out-of-state driver's license works. If you do not have a photo ID, ADOT accepts a birth certificate plus a second document with your name and date of birth, such as a school record or medical record. A tribal ID card also counts.

Proof of Arizona residency must show your current address in Arizona. ADOT accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail addressed to you. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from your bank, insurance company, or employer also works if it shows your name and Arizona address. You cannot use a PO box as proof of residency.

Proof of your Social Security number can be your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, or a paystub. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.

The written test, vision screening, and driving test

Once you have submitted your documents at an ADOT office, you will take a vision screening and a written test on the same day. The vision screening checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely; if you fail, you may be able to retake it after getting glasses or contacts. The written test covers Arizona traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 80 percent of the questions correctly to pass. ADOT provides a study guide online and at every office.

After you pass the written test, you will schedule a separate appointment for the driving test. This test is conducted by an ADOT examiner who sits in the car with you while you drive on public roads for about 20 to 30 minutes. The examiner watches how you handle turns, stops, parking, and other basic driving skills. You must use a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. You cannot use a vehicle with a broken headlight, windshield, or brake light.

If you fail the driving test, you can retake it. There is no limit to how many times you can test, but you must wait at least one day between attempts and pay the test fee each time.

Cost and how long your license lasts

A standard Arizona driver's license costs between $25 and $35, depending on how long you want it to be valid. You can choose a 5-year, 10-year, or 12-year license. The longer the license, the higher the cost. Most people choose the 12-year option because it spreads the cost over more years.

If you are 65 or older, your license is valid for only 5 years, and the cost is lower. Arizona requires older drivers to renew more often because vision and medical conditions can change.

A Real ID-compliant license costs about $5 to $10 more than a standard license. This license has a gold star in the upper right corner and allows you to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings without carrying a passport. If you do not get a Real ID license, you will need a passport or passport card to fly domestically after May 2025. Real ID is optional, but many people find it convenient.

Renewing your Arizona license

You can renew your Arizona driver's license up to one year before it expires. ADOT allows you to renew online, by mail, or in person at an office. Online renewal is the fastest and cheapest option if you have not changed your address, name, or other information since your last license.

If you are renewing in person, you do not need to retake the written or driving test unless your license has been suspended or revoked, or unless ADOT has a reason to believe you are no longer safe to drive. You will need to bring proof of your current address if you have moved.

If your license has expired by more than five years, you cannot renew it online or by mail. You must go to an ADOT office and retake the written and driving tests as if you were getting a license for the first time.

What happens if you move to Arizona from another state

Arizona law requires you to get an Arizona driver's license within 10 days of becoming a resident. You are considered a resident if you move to Arizona to live there permanently, even if you still own property in another state. If you are only visiting or working temporarily, you can keep your out-of-state license.

When you explore for your Arizona license, you do not have to retake the written and driving tests if your out-of-state license is still valid. ADOT will issue you an Arizona license based on your existing license, as long as you bring all three categories of documents (identity, residency, and Social Security proof). You will still need to pass the vision screening.

If your out-of-state license has expired, you must take the written and driving tests. If you are moving from a state that has a Real ID license and you want to keep that status in Arizona, you must request a Real ID license when you explore.

Suspensions, revocations, and getting your license back

Your Arizona driver's license can be suspended or revoked by ADOT or by a court. A suspension is temporary; your license is taken away for a set period, and you can get it back once that period ends. A revocation is more serious and usually permanent, though you may be able to request reinstatement after a waiting period.

Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic tickets, unpaid child support, unpaid court fines, driving with a suspended license, accumulating too many points from traffic violations, or failing to show up for a court date. If your license is suspended, you cannot legally drive. Driving on a suspended license is a crime and can result in jail time, fines, and a longer suspension.

To learn about your license is suspended, you can check the ADOT website or call ADOT directly. If your license is suspended because of unpaid fines or tickets, you must pay what you owe. If it is suspended because of unpaid child support, you must contact the child support enforcement agency. Once the reason for the suspension is resolved, you can request reinstatement from ADOT, usually by paying a reinstatement fee of around $100.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Arizona with an out-of-state license?

Yes, if you are visiting or temporarily in Arizona. If you are a resident or plan to stay longer than a few months, you must get an Arizona license within 10 days. Non-residents can drive with a valid out-of-state or foreign license for as long as that license is valid.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test the same day or any day after. There is no waiting period and no limit to how many times you can test. Each attempt costs the same test fee, so bring enough money if you plan to retake it when ready.

Do I need to take the driving test again if I renew my license?

No, unless your license was suspended or revoked, or ADOT has reason to believe you are unsafe to drive. A routine renewal requires only proof of your current address and a vision screening. If your license expired more than five years ago, you must retake both tests.

What is the difference between a standard license and a Real ID license?

A Real ID license has a gold star and costs more, but it allows you to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings without a passport. A standard license does not. After May 2025, you will need a passport or Real ID to fly domestically. Both are valid for driving in Arizona.

How do I know if my license is suspended?

Check the ADOT website using your driver's license number, or call ADOT directly. If your license is suspended, the notice will tell you why and what you need to do to resolve it. Common reasons include unpaid fines, unpaid child support, or traffic violations. Once you fix the problem, you can request reinstatement.