A Class D is Arizona's standard operator license for regular driving
A Class D driver license in Arizona is the most common type of license. It lets you drive a regular passenger car, pickup truck, or van on public roads. If you are learning to drive or renewing a license you already have, Class D is almost certainly what you need.
Arizona issues Class D licenses to people who pass a written test, a vision test, and a driving test. The license is valid for five years from the date you receive it. You can renew it by mail, online, or in person at a Motor Vehicle Division office.
Class D is different from other Arizona license classes because it does not let you drive commercial vehicles, motorcycles, or vehicles that require a commercial license. If you want to drive a semi-truck, school bus, or motorcycle, you need a different class of license and additional training.
Key Takeaways
- A Class D license lets you drive passenger cars, pickup trucks, and vans but not commercial vehicles or motorcycles.
- You must pass a written test, vision test, and driving test to receive a Class D license in Arizona.
- Class D licenses are valid for five years and can be renewed online, by mail, or in person.
- If you are under 18, you start with a learner's permit and must hold it for six months before you can test for a Class D license.
- You must be at least 16 years old to hold a Class D license in Arizona.
Age requirements and how they affect when you can drive
You must be at least 16 years old to hold a Class D license in Arizona. However, the path to getting one depends on your age when you start.
If you are under 18, you cannot go straight to a Class D license. You must first get a learner's permit and hold it for at least six months. During that time, you can drive only with a licensed adult in the car with you. After six months, you can take the driving test. If you pass, you receive a Class D license with restrictions until you turn 18.
If you are 18 or older, you can skip the learner's permit step. You can take the written test and driving test right away. If you pass both, you receive an unrestricted Class D license.
What you need to bring to get a Class D license
Arizona requires specific documents before you can test for or renew a Class D license. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.
You will need proof of identity, such as a birth certificate, passport, or tribal ID. You will also need proof of your Arizona residency, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Bring your Social Security number or a document that shows it, such as a Social Security card or tax return.
If you are under 18, you must also bring a parent or guardian with you. They will need to sign your process in person. If you are renewing a license, bring your current license if you still have it.
The written test, vision test, and driving test
To get a Class D license, you must pass three tests at a Motor Vehicle Division office.
The written test covers Arizona traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Arizona Driver License Manual, which is free online. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass. You can take it in English or Spanish.
The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. You must be able to read a line of letters on a chart from 20 feet away. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you cannot take the driving test that day.
The driving test takes place on public roads near the Motor Vehicle Division office. An examiner sits in the car with you and watches how you handle the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to other drivers. The test lasts about 20 minutes. You must demonstrate that you can start, stop, turn, park, and drive at different speeds safely.
Restrictions on Class D licenses for drivers under 18
If you receive a Class D license before you turn 18, your license comes with restrictions. These rules are designed to reduce crashes among young drivers.
You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work, school, or a medical appointment. You cannot use a cell phone while driving, even if it is hands-free. You can have only one passenger under 18 in the car with you, unless the passenger is a family member. You must wear a seat belt at all times.
These restrictions stay in place until you turn 18. When you turn 18, you can go to a Motor Vehicle Division office and request an unrestricted license. You do not need to take another test.
How to renew a Class D license in Arizona
Class D licenses are valid for five years. Arizona sends you a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires. You have three ways to renew: online, by mail, or in person.
If you renew online, you must have a valid email address and access to a computer. You pay the renewal fee online and receive your new license in the mail within two weeks. Online renewal is the fastest option and works if your address has not changed and you do not need a new photo.
If you renew by mail, fill out the form that came with your renewal notice, include a check or money order for the fee, and mail it to the address on the form. Your new license arrives in about three weeks.
If you renew in person, go to any Motor Vehicle Division office with your current license and payment. You can get a new photo and update your address on the spot. In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes.
When you need to get a new Class D license instead of renewing
Sometimes you cannot renew your license by mail or online. You must go in person and may need to retake tests.
If your license has been expired for more than five years, you must explore for a new license as if you were getting one for the first time. You will need to take the written test and driving test again. If your license was suspended or revoked, you must complete the steps required to restore it before you can renew or get a new license.
If you change your name, you must bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. If you want to change your address, you can do that online, by mail, or in person. If you need a new photo because your appearance has changed significantly, you can request one in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a pickup truck with a Class D license?
Yes. A Class D license lets you drive pickup trucks, vans, and passenger cars. You can drive any vehicle that weighs less than 26,001 pounds and is not a commercial vehicle or motorcycle.
What happens if I fail the driving test?
You can take the driving test again. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you must pay the test fee each time. Most Motor Vehicle Division offices let you schedule another test the same day or within a few days.
Do I need to renew my Class D license if I move out of Arizona?
No. Once you move, you should get a driver license from your new state. Arizona will not renew your license if you no longer live in the state, and driving with an out-of-state license is legal in most situations.
Can I get a Class D license if I have a suspended or revoked license?
Not until the suspension or revocation is lifted. You must complete any required steps, such as paying fines or completing a driver improvement course, before you can renew or get a new license.
How much does a Class D license cost in Arizona?
The cost varies depending on how long the license is valid and whether you are getting a new license or renewing. Contact the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division or visit their website for current fees.