With regular address changes, deployments, and subsequent new surroundings, life in the military is difficult enough without the hassles of paperwork from the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD).

Fortunately, the MVD makes allowances for military personnel and their families when it comes to driver licenses and car registrations. The extensions and exemptions make living and driving in Arizona the pleasurable experiences they should be.

Driver Licenses and Identification Cards

To ensure that the MVD is aware of your status as military personnel, you will need to show your military ID card when you apply for your driver license. If you do not have the ID with you when you apply for your license or you enlist after you receive the license, send a copy of the front and back of your military ID as well as your most recent Statement of Earnings/Leave to the MVD via postal mail at the following address:

• Mail Drop 510M

• Motor Vehicle Division

• P.O. Box 2100

• Phoenix, AZ 85001-2100

Once you have done so, the MVD will extend the expiration date of your license for up to six months after you leave military service, if it expires while you are on active military duty. You will also be exempt from having to update your photo and retake your vision test every 12 years.

In addition, active military personnel and their dependents stationed in Arizona can take advantage of the MVD's online service portal or call (877) 301-8093 to apply for duplicate driver licenses and ID cards, renew driver licenses or ID cards, or to reinstate suspended driver licenses. The service requires a credit card to pay the appropriate fees.

If your digital photograph is not on file with the MVD, the MVD will overlook the requirement and issue you a card that is "Valid without Photo." However, you will have to submit your application via postal mail to do so.

• Motor Vehicle Division

• 4005 N. 51st Ave

• Phoenix, AZ 85031-2688

Renewing Your Registration

Arizona residents who are on active military duty may renew their vehicle registration online, by mail, or by calling (888) 713-3031. If you use the online or telephone system, you will need to pay with a credit card. Those who utilize the postal service will need to send their application with a check or money order to:

• Motor Vehicle Division

• 4005 N. 51st Ave

• Phoenix, AZ 85031-2688

If you are on active duty outside of Arizona when your vehicle registration needs to be renewed, you can submit a Special Military Exemption form, which exempts you from the year's registration fees and vehicle license taxes (VLT), when you return and renew your vehicle.

However, this exemption is limited to two vehicles. Members of the Arizona National Guard are eligible for the same exemption under the Special Military Exemption Executive Order 2003-10 when they submit the applicable form.

Out-of-Use Vehicles

It is not necessary to insure vehicles that are not in use on the roadways when you are on active military duty. To apply for permission not to insure your out-of-use vehicle, you can submit an application online.

Veteran Benefits

If the Department of Veterans Affairs has deemed you 100% disabled and you are drawing compensation as such, you are exempt from paying registration fees and VLTs on one vehicle. Spouses of servicepeople killed in action are also eligible for the benefit until they remarry.

Further, Arizona veterans whose vehicle is paid for by financial aid from the Department of Veterans Affairs do not have to pay registration fees or VLTs.

Find general license and registration information at Car Registration, Applying for a New License, and Renewing Your License on this site.

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