Documents and proof you must bring to the Arizona DMV

Arizona requires you to bring specific documents to prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number before you can get a driver license. You cannot complete the process without all three categories of proof — the DMV will not issue a license if any piece is missing.

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a valid foreign passport, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Native American tribal document. If you bring a birth certificate, it must be a certified copy with the state seal, not a photocopy or hospital record.

For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your current Arizona address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or a letter from a government agency. A bank statement or credit card statement also works. The document must have your name and address printed on it — a handwritten address does not count.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are ineligible.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or tribal document), proof of residency (utility bill or lease dated within 60 days), and proof of Social Security number (Social Security card or tax document) to the DMV office.
  • Birth certificates must be certified copies with the state seal; hospital records and photocopies are not accepted.
  • Residency documents must show your current Arizona address and be dated within the last 60 days — a handwritten address will not be accepted.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming you are ineligible.
  • You will also need to pass a vision test and written knowledge test at the DMV office on the day you explore.

Age requirements and restrictions for new drivers

Arizona issues different types of licenses based on your age, and younger drivers face restrictions on when and how they can drive.

You must be at least 16 years old to get a learner's permit or a restricted license. If you are 16 or 17, you can get a restricted license, which allows you to drive unsupervised during daylight hours but requires a licensed adult in the car between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. You cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, unless it is an emergency. These restrictions stay in place until you turn 18 or hold the license for one year, whichever comes later.

If you are 18 or older, you can get a standard driver license with no restrictions. You do not need to hold a learner's permit first, though some people choose to for practice.

Arizona also offers a graduated licensing program for drivers under 18. If you complete an approved driver education course, you can reduce the restriction period and lower your insurance costs. The course is not required, but it shortens the time you must follow the nighttime driving ban.

Vision and knowledge testing at the DMV

Before the DMV issues your license, you must pass a vision test and a written knowledge test on the same day you explore.

The vision test checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. You must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without glasses or contacts. If you wear corrective lenses, you must wear them during the test, and your license will be marked to show you must wear them while driving. If you fail the vision test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day.

The knowledge test covers Arizona traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test has 30 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass. You can study using the Arizona Driver License Manual, which is free and available online at the Arizona Department of Transportation website. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or return another day.

If you are under 18, you may be required to complete a driver education course before taking the knowledge test, depending on whether you hold a learner's permit. Ask at the DMV office when you arrive.

Fees and payment methods

Arizona charges different fees depending on the type of license you are getting and how long it is valid.

A standard five-year driver license costs $25. If you are under 18, your license is valid until your 18th birthday and costs $10. A restricted license for drivers 16 and 17 also costs $10. The DMV accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at most offices, though a few locations may accept cash only — call ahead if you are unsure.

If you need to replace a lost or damaged license, the fee is $10. If you change your name or address, you can update your license for free by mail or online, though some changes require a visit to the DMV office.

Where to go and what to bring on the day of your appointment

You must visit an Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Motor Vehicle Division office in person. You cannot get a driver license by mail or online. Find the office nearest you on the ADOT website, which also shows hours and whether you need an appointment.

Most offices now require appointments, which you can book online. Walk-ins are accepted at some locations, but wait times can be long. Booking ahead saves time and guarantees a spot. If you cannot keep your appointment, cancel it online so someone else can use the time slot.

Bring all your documents in originals — photocopies are not accepted. Bring your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. Arrive 10 minutes early. Wear something you can use for your license photo, though the DMV does not have a dress code. You will take a new photo at the office, so you do not need to bring one.

Real ID compliance and what it means for your Arizona license

Arizona driver licenses are Real ID compliant by default. This means your license meets federal security standards and can be used for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. You do not need to do anything special or pay extra to get a Real ID-compliant license — all standard Arizona driver licenses issued since 2020 meet the requirement.

If you have an older Arizona license issued before 2020, it may not be Real ID compliant. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID-compliant license or passport to board a domestic flight. If your current license is not compliant, you can renew it early at any ADOT office, and the new license will be Real ID compliant.

Your license will show a gold star in the upper right corner if it is Real ID compliant. If you do not see the star, your license is not compliant, and you should renew it before traveling by air.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver license if I do not have a birth certificate?

Yes. If you do not have a certified birth certificate, you can bring a valid U.S. passport, a foreign passport, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Native American tribal document instead. You must bring one of these documents — the DMV will not issue a license without proof of identity.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can still get a driver license. Bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are ineligible for a number. The DMV will issue your license without a Social Security number, though your license will be marked to show this.

Do I need a learner's permit before I can get a driver license?

No, not if you are 18 or older. You can go straight to a driver license. If you are 16 or 17, you can get a restricted license without a permit, though some people get a permit first for practice. Ask the DMV which route is faster for your situation.

Can I take the knowledge test in a language other than English?

Yes. The Arizona DMV offers the knowledge test in Spanish and several other languages. Tell the DMV staff when you arrive which language you need, and they will provide the test in that language.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass the tests?

Your license is usually printed and ready the same day you pass the tests. In rare cases, the DMV may need to mail it to you, which takes about two weeks. Ask the staff before you leave the office whether your license will be ready when ready.