How to Get and Renew an Arizona Driver's License

What you need to get an Arizona driver's license

Arizona issues driver's licenses through the Department of Transportation (ADOT). To get your first license, you'll need to visit an ADOT office in person with proof of identity, proof of Arizona residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You cannot complete this process online or by mail.

Proof of identity means a valid passport, birth certificate, or consular identification card. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. ADOT has a full list of acceptable documents on their website, and bringing more than one document of each type protects you if one is rejected.

You'll also need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test about Arizona traffic laws. The written test has 40 questions, and you must answer at least 32 correctly. You can study using the official Arizona Driver License Manual, which ADOT publishes free online. If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day at most offices.

Key Takeaways

You must visit an ADOT office in person with proof of identity, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
The written knowledge test covers Arizona traffic laws and requires a score of at least 32 out of 40 questions.
A standard Arizona driver's license is valid for 12 years, and you can renew it online, by mail, or in person depending on your situation.
Arizona offers a Real ID-compliant license that meets federal requirements for air travel and federal building access, though it costs more and requires additional documentation.
If you're under 18, you must complete a driver education course and hold a learner's permit for at least six months before taking the road test.

Choosing between a standard license and Real ID

Arizona offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a Real ID-compliant license. The main difference is that a Real ID license meets federal requirements set by the Department of Homeland Security. Starting May 7, 2025, you'll need a Real ID license or another acceptable form of identification to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building.

A Real ID license costs more than a standard license and requires additional documentation beyond the basic proof of identity and residency. You'll need to provide proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form) and may need to provide additional proof of residency. The Real ID process process takes longer at the office, so expect a longer wait time.

If you don't plan to fly domestically or enter federal buildings, a standard license works for driving and most other identification purposes. You can upgrade to a Real ID later if your plans change, though you'll pay the difference in cost and may need to visit an office again.

Getting a learner's permit if you're under 18

Arizona requires anyone under 18 to hold a learner's permit before taking a road test for a full license. To get a learner's permit, you must complete a driver education course approved by the Arizona Department of Education. These courses are offered by high schools, private driving schools, and online providers. The course covers traffic laws, vehicle operation, and hazard recognition.

After completing driver education, you visit an ADOT office with your course completion certificate, proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN. You'll pass a vision test and the same 40-question written knowledge test as adult applicants. Once you have your learner's permit, you must hold it for at least six months before you can take the road test.

While holding a learner's permit, you can only drive with a licensed adult age 21 or older in the vehicle. Arizona law also restricts when permit holders can drive: no driving between midnight and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by a parent or guardian, and no use of cell phones or electronic devices while driving.

Taking the road test and getting your license

After holding your learner's permit for at least six months (or three months if you're 18 or older), you can schedule a road test at an ADOT office. The road test lasts about 10 to 15 minutes and covers basic driving skills like starting the vehicle, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic laws. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition.

If you pass the road test, ADOT issues your license on the spot. Your license is valid for 12 years from the date of issue. If you fail, you can retake the test, though you may need to wait a few days and pay the test fee again. Most ADOT offices allow you to schedule your next test before you leave.

If you're 18 or older and have held a valid driver's license from another state for at least one year, you may not need to take a road test in Arizona. You can transfer your license by visiting an ADOT office with your out-of-state license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN. ADOT will issue an Arizona license without a road test in most cases.

Renewing your Arizona driver's license

You can renew your Arizona driver's license online, by mail, or in person, depending on your situation. Online renewal is the fastest option and costs the least. You can renew online if your license is not expired, you have no medical conditions that affect your driving, and your address hasn't changed. You'll need your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

Mail renewal takes longer but works if you meet the same conditions as online renewal. You'll receive a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires. Follow the instructions on the notice to renew by mail. In-person renewal is required if your license is expired, you need to update your address or name, or you have medical conditions that ADOT needs to review.

When you renew, you don't need to retake the written or road test unless ADOT requests it due to a medical concern or a violation. However, you will need to pass a vision test. If you're renewing in person, bring your current license, proof of residency if you've moved, and your Social Security number or ITIN.

Updating your name or address

If you change your name or move to a new address, you must update your driver's license. You can update your address online through the ADOT website if you're renewing at the same time, or you can visit an ADOT office in person. To update your address in person, bring your current license, proof of your new address dated within 60 days, and your Social Security number or ITIN.

To change your name on your license, you must visit an ADOT office in person. Bring your current license, a court order or certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or other legal document showing the name change. ADOT will issue a new license with your updated name. There is usually a fee for a replacement license.

Finding an ADOT office and scheduling an appointment

ADOT operates driver's license offices throughout Arizona. You can find the office nearest you and check hours on the ADOT website. Many offices now require appointments, especially for road tests and in-person renewals. You can schedule an appointment online through the ADOT website or by calling the office directly.

Wait times vary by location and time of year. Offices in larger cities tend to be busier, especially during lunch hours and late afternoons. If you're getting your first license or taking a road test, plan for at least one to two hours at the office. Bring all required documents and arrive early to avoid delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Arizona driver's license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. Online and mail renewal are faster than waiting until your license is about to expire, and you'll avoid the rush at ADOT offices.

What happens if my driver's license expires while I'm out of state?

You can still drive with an expired Arizona license for a short time, but it's not legal. If you're out of state for an extended period, renew your license online or by mail before it expires. If it has already expired, you'll need to renew in person at an ADOT office.

Do I need a Real ID license to drive within Arizona?

No. A standard Arizona driver's license is valid for driving anywhere in the state. You only need a Real ID license if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building after May 7, 2025.

What if I lose my driver's license?

Visit an ADOT office in person with proof of identity and your Social Security number or ITIN. ADOT will issue a replacement license. You can also report the loss to ADOT online, though you'll still need to visit an office to get a replacement.

Can I get a duplicate license if I need two copies?

Yes. You can request a duplicate license at an ADOT office or online if you're renewing. There is a fee for a duplicate, and it will have the same expiration date as your current license.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.