Applying for a New License (Drivers 18+) in Arizona

1) Choose Your License

Teen drivers, adult first-time drivers, and people who have recently moved to Arizona are likely to need information about how to get a new driver's license. You must hold a valid driver's license in order to legally drive. The following types of driver licenses are available in Arizona:

• Class G (graduated driver license for teenagers 16 to 18).

• Class D (non-commercial license for drivers 18 and older).

• Class M (can be obtained as a separate motorcycle license or as an endorsement).

• Commercial (CDL) A, B and C.

2) Take a Driver's Education Course

Younger than 18―Must either complete a driver ed program or 25 hours of supervised driving practice.

18 and Older―If you are applying for a Class D license for the first time, you should some thought to taking a driver education course. Though not required, taking a supplemental driving course, such as the one offered by our sponsor, can go a long way in making you a safe driver.

Over 18 and New to the State―After moving to Arizona from another state, you can easily transfer your existing license to an Arizona license without having to retake driver's education or training. Simply visit your local Motor Vehicle Division office and bring your current license from your previous state of residence. You must also bring one of the following forms of identification: birth certificate, passport, or military ID card. As long as your previous license is still valid, you'll take a quick vision test, pay your license fee, and receive your brand-new AZ license.

3) Prepare for the Test

Arizona's Driver License Manual ranks as the written test's best study-source. After studying the manual it's a smart idea to try a few practice tests.

4) Locate a DMV Office

Visit any Motor Vehicle Division office (MVD) or authorized third-party office. Consider visiting Wednesday or Thursday, the MVD's slowest days.

5) Make Test-Day Preparations

On the day of the test:

• Bring proper identification.

• Bring your Social Security number.

• Complete an Instruction Permit form. If you are younger than 18 the application must be signed by a parent or guardian in the presence of a notary or MVD agent.

• Pay $7 instruction permit fee.

6) Take the Written Test

After you have studied Arizona's Driver License Manual, possibly enrolled in a supplemental driver's ed program, and have all the documents listed above, you'll need to visit your local MVD office.

If you fail, you must wait 24 hours before retaking the test.

After passing the written test you'll receive your permit. You must hold your instruction permit for a minimum of five months and complete a state-approved driver education program or 25 hours of supervised driving before you can take a road test.

NOTE: Written tests are also offered in Spanish.

7) Get a Car

Somewhere down the line you'll need a car to take Arizona's road test. Having a car will allow you to practice on your own, outside of a driver training program.

Consider a car that meets needs, rather than image. Before deciding, be sure to get a vehicle history report. This will protect you from any hidden flaws that could drain your wallet down the road.

8) Get Car Insurance

Car insurance, regardless if you only own a permit, is mandatory. You can compare rates at our Insurance Center.

9) Take the Driving Test

If you're new to Arizona and own a valid driver's license from another state, you do not have to take Arizona's driving test. Go to your local Motor Vehicle Division office and show your license from the previous state. You must also bring a birth certificate, passport, or military ID as a second form of identification.

You do, however, have to take a road test if you're a first-time driver. Contact either your MVD office or an approved third-party testing center to make an appointment.

When taking the test you must:

• Have a vehicle in good working condition with current registration, plates and tabs.

• Have valid car insurance.

• Understand the following commands/words in English: turn left at the next street, corner, stop sign or traffic light; turn right at the next street, corner, stop sign or traffic light; stop; slow down; left lane; right lane; drive straight ahead; speedometer; seat belt.

Be sure to bring:

• Cash, check or money order to pay license application fee (see below).

• The same signatory or notarized representation you brought when you applied for your instruction permit, if you are younger than 18.

License Fees by Age

• 16-39: $25

• 40-44: $20

• 45-49: $15

• 50 and older: $10

Once You Pass

You'll immediately be issued your permanent license.

If You Fail

You can retest on the next business day.

The $25 fee covers, if needed, three attempts to pass the test in a 12-month period.

Non-Citizens

An International Driver's Permit is not needed to drive in Arizona. Your license from your home country will suffice. If, however, you exclusively use an international driver's license or permit, it must be issued by another country, not the United States. Also, should you become a resident of Arizona, you will be expected to get an Arizona driver's license.

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