What you need to do to get an Arizona learner's permit
To get an Arizona learner's permit, you will visit your local Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) office in person with the right documents, pass a written knowledge test, and pay a fee. The whole process takes about an hour on the day you go in. You do not need to schedule an appointment at most MVD locations — you can walk in during business hours, though arriving early in the day usually means shorter wait times.
Arizona's learner's permit is called an Instruction Permit, and it lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. You must be at least 15 years and 6 months old to get one. Once you have your permit, you can drive during daylight hours and some evening hours, but there are restrictions on who can be in the car with you and how many passengers you can have.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring proof of identity, proof of Arizona residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to the MVD office.
- The written knowledge test covers Arizona traffic laws and safe driving practices, and you must score at least 80 percent to pass.
- The fee for an Instruction Permit is a one-time cost that covers the permit itself; you will pay a separate fee later when you get your full driver's license.
- Once you have your permit, you can only drive during daylight hours and with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old sitting next to you.
Documents you need to bring to the MVD
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or tribal ID as proof of identity. A school ID or student photo ID is not enough on its own. If you do not have one of these documents, you can bring a combination of documents — ask the MVD office what will work for your situation.
You also need proof that you live in Arizona. A utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement with your name and current address works. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you live with a parent or guardian and are not on the utility bill, bring a signed letter from them on their letterhead, along with a copy of their ID and a document showing their address.
Bring your Social Security card or a letter from the Social Security Administration if you have one. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) documentation instead. You will also need to fill out an process for Instruction Permit (Form DL 44) before you take the test — you can get this form at the MVD office or read it from the Arizona MVD website ahead of time.
The written knowledge test and what it covers
The knowledge test has 40 multiple-choice questions about Arizona traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You have 30 minutes to finish. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly — that is a score of 80 percent — to pass. If you do not pass, you can take the test again the same day at most MVD offices, though you may have to wait and pay another test fee.
The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, what different road signs mean, how to handle intersections, parking rules, and what to do in bad weather. You can study using the Arizona Driver License Manual, which is free on the MVD website. Many people also use online practice tests to get ready. Take time to study before you go in — most people who fail did not prepare enough.
The test is given on a computer at the MVD office. You do not need to bring anything except your documents and the completed form. The computer will tell you right away whether you passed or failed.
The fee and how long your permit lasts
The fee for an Instruction Permit varies depending on how long you want it to last. You can get a permit that is valid for one year or for five years. The one-year permit costs less, but if you think you will be driving for longer than a year before you get your full license, the five-year permit may save you money in the long run. Ask the MVD office staff which option makes sense for you.
Pay the fee at the MVD office when you pass your test. They accept cash, check, and debit or credit card. Once you pay, you will get your Instruction Permit right away — it is a physical card that you must carry with you whenever you drive.
Restrictions on driving with your Instruction Permit
With an Instruction Permit, you can only drive during daylight hours — from sunrise to one hour after sunset. You must have a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old sitting in the front passenger seat next to you at all times. That person must have a valid driver's license from any state.
You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive with only teenage passengers. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even if it is hands-free. These rules are strict, and breaking them can result in your permit being suspended or canceled.
You must display your Instruction Permit on the dashboard or sun visor so it is visible from outside the car. If you are stopped by police and do not have your permit with you, you can be cited.
What happens after you get your permit
Once you have your Instruction Permit, you need to practice driving for a certain amount of time before you can take the road test for your full driver's license. Arizona requires at least 60 hours of supervised driving practice, with at least 10 of those hours at night. Keep a log of your practice hours — you will need to show it when you go for your road test.
You can take your road test after you have completed your practice hours and feel ready. The road test is a separate appointment at an MVD office, and you will need to bring your Instruction Permit, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that is registered and in safe working condition. The road test covers basic driving skills like parking, turning, and following traffic laws.
Where to find your nearest MVD office and hours
Arizona has MVD offices in most cities and towns. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Arizona MVD website. Some offices are busier than others — offices in larger cities often have longer wait times. If you can, go to an office in a smaller town or go early in the morning on a weekday.
Most MVD offices are open Monday through Friday during regular business hours. Some offices have extended hours one or two evenings a week. A few locations are open on Saturday mornings. Check the website for your specific office before you go, because hours change and some offices may be closed for holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the knowledge test online or at home?
No. You must go to an MVD office in person to take the written knowledge test. The test is given on a computer at the office, and an MVD staff member must be present to verify your identity and supervise the test.
What if I fail the knowledge test?
You can take the test again the same day at most MVD offices, though you will have to pay the test fee again. There is no waiting period between attempts. Study the Arizona Driver License Manual and try again when you feel more ready.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring a letter from Social Security instead?
Either one works. If you have your Social Security card, bring it. If you do not have the card but have a letter from the Social Security Administration showing your number, that is acceptable. If you have an ITIN instead of a Social Security number, bring your ITIN documentation.
Can someone else pick up my Instruction Permit for me if I cannot go back to the MVD office?
No. You must be present at the MVD office to receive your Instruction Permit. You will need to show your ID and sign for it. Plan to stay at the office after you pass your test to complete this step.
What if my proof of residency document is older than 60 days?
It will not be accepted. Bring a document dated within the last 60 days. If you just moved to Arizona and do not have a recent utility bill or lease yet, ask the MVD office what alternative documents they will accept — a signed letter from your landlord or a parent may work.