What you need to do to get an Arizona driver's license

To get an Arizona driver's license, you visit your local Department of Transportation office in person, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay the fee. Arizona requires you to bring specific documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Arizona residency. The whole process takes a few weeks from start to finish because the state mails your license to you after approval.

You cannot get a license by mail or online. You must appear in person at an MVD office, and you must pass both the knowledge test (written) and the driving test (behind the wheel) before the state issues your license. If you fail either test, you can retake it, but you'll need to pay the test fee again.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit an Arizona Motor Vehicle Division office in person with original documents proving identity, Social Security number, and residency.
  • The written test covers Arizona traffic laws and road signs; you can study the official handbook online before you go.
  • The driving test happens at the MVD office and tests basic vehicle control, parking, and your ability to follow traffic laws.
  • Arizona mails your license to the address you provide, which takes one to two weeks after you pass both tests and pay the fee.
  • If you are under 18, you must complete a driver education course and hold a learner's permit for six months before taking the driving test.

Documents you must bring to the MVD office

Bring an original document that proves your identity and date of birth. A U.S. passport, passport card, or certified birth certificate works. A school ID or work ID does not. If you use a birth certificate, bring a second form of ID with a photo, such as a school ID or employee badge.

You also need proof of your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a 1099 form. A paystub with your full Social Security number printed on it also works.

Finally, bring two documents that prove you live in Arizona. Utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, or insurance documents dated within the last 60 days count. A government check or tax return with your current address also works. Mail addressed to you at your Arizona address is acceptable.

If you are under 18, bring a parent or legal guardian with you. They must bring their own ID and sign your process in person at the MVD office.

The written knowledge test

The written test has 40 questions about Arizona traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass. The test is in English, but Arizona offers it in other languages if you request one when you schedule your appointment.

You can study for free using the official Arizona Driver License Manual, which is available on the Arizona Department of Transportation website. The manual covers everything the test covers. Many people study it for a few hours or a few days before their test appointment.

You take the test on a computer at the MVD office. The test takes about 15 to 20 minutes. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. Each test attempt costs money, so studying beforehand saves you money.

The driving test

The driving test happens at the MVD office where you took your written test. An examiner sits in the car with you and watches you drive. The test takes about 10 to 15 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, parking, turning, stopping, and following traffic laws. You must use your own vehicle or borrow one; the MVD does not provide a car.

The vehicle you use must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner checks the brakes, lights, wipers, horn, and mirrors before you drive. If anything is broken or missing, you cannot take the test that day.

You must pass the written test before you can take the driving test. Many people pass the written test and schedule the driving test for a later date. You do not have to take both tests on the same day.

Scheduling your appointment and paying the fee

Schedule your appointment online through the Arizona Department of Transportation website or call your local MVD office. Online scheduling is faster and shows you available times. You can schedule weeks in advance, which is helpful because some offices have long wait times.

The fee for a standard five-year Arizona driver's license is $25. If you want a ten-year license, the fee is $50. You pay at the MVD office when you take your tests. Arizona accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card.

After you pass both tests and pay the fee, the state mails your license to the address you provided. This takes one to two weeks. You will receive a temporary paper license at the MVD office that you can use while you wait for your plastic license to arrive.

Special rules if you are under 18

If you are under 18, you must complete a driver education course before you take your driving test. The course can be in-person or online and covers traffic laws and safe driving. Arizona recognizes courses from public schools, private driving schools, and online providers. The course takes a few hours to a few days depending on the provider.

After you finish the course, you get a learner's permit. You must hold the learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test. During those six months, you can drive only with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old sitting next to you in the front seat.

You get the learner's permit at the MVD office by passing the written test. You do not need to take the driving test to get the permit. The permit costs $25 and is valid for one year.

What happens if you fail a test

If you fail the written test, you can retake it when ready or schedule another appointment. Each test attempt costs $25. Most people who study the official handbook pass on their second try.

If you fail the driving test, you can schedule another appointment. The examiner will tell you what you did wrong. Common reasons for failing include hitting cones during parking, not coming to a complete stop, or not checking mirrors. You can retake the driving test as many times as you need, and each attempt costs $25.

There is no limit to how many times you can retake either test. Take time between attempts to practice or study more. Many MVD offices let you schedule your next test right away.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. Arizona offers the written test in Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and several other languages. Tell the MVD office when you schedule your appointment which language you need. Not all offices offer all languages, so call ahead to confirm.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You must have a Social Security number to get an Arizona driver's license. If you do not have one, you need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you go to the MVD. This process takes several weeks.

Do I need to bring my learner's permit to the driving test?

Yes. Bring your learner's permit and a valid form of ID to the driving test. You also need to bring proof of insurance for the vehicle you will drive during the test. Your insurance card or a printout from your insurance company works.

How long is an Arizona driver's license valid?

A standard Arizona driver's license is valid for five years. A ten-year license is also available and costs more. Your license expires on your birthday in the year it is set to expire. You can renew it online, by mail, or in person at an MVD office.

What if I move to a different address after I get my license?

You must update your address with the Arizona Department of Transportation within 10 days of moving. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at an MVD office. You do not need a new license; the state updates your record and mails you a corrected license if needed.