How to get an Arizona Drivers License
- Arizona Driver's License Guidelines
- How to Prepare for the Written Exam
- Required ID and Paperwork
AZ Drivers License Rules and Requirements
Find out the steps to get your AZ drivers license, pass your DMV written test, replace your out-of-state license and the required paperwork to bring to the DMV office to get your driver's license.
Try Sample Test!All applicants need to be familiar with the Arizona Driver's Manual. Think you know the material? Take our DMV practice test now and test your driving knowledge.
Get your AZ Driver's Permit
Under Arizona driver's license guidelines, you must be at least 15 years old to apply for a Learners Permit. Once you receive a valid learner's permit, you will then need to pass a road skills test in addition to a vision test to receive an AZ driver's license. Applicants under 18 must have held a learners permit for 6 months and must present a certificate of completion for the required 30 hours of supervised driving time (20 day time and 10 night time hours) before taking the road skills test.
Prepare for the Written Knowledge Test
The Arizona MVD requires that all applicants must pass a written exam on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques. If you fail the exam, some states require you to wait until at least the next day to take the test again and charge a re-examination fee.
All new drivers are encouraged to study for this driver education exam so you don't miss the opportunity to get your learners permit as soon as you reach the approved age. Online practice tests are available that provide real sample questions from the DMV Exam - Take the Arizona practice test now and test your driving knowledge.
New Arizona Residents
New residents with an out-of-state license must obtain an Arizona driver's license as soon as they establish a permanent residence in AZ. When heading to the MVD, be sure to bring the license from your former state as you will be required to surrender it in order to obtain the new license.
There is no written exam or road skills testing required to change a valid out-of-state license to an AZ driver's license, however you will need to pass the vision test.
If you are between the ages of 16 and 18, you will be subject to the written, vision and road skills test.
International Drivers
You may legally drive in Arizona using a valid driver license from another country. An International Driving License or Permit is not required, but is recommended since it can be printed in English, and can be used in conjunction with the driver license from the other country. If an International Driving License or Permit is used alone, it must be issued by a country other than the United States. Vehicle rental companies may have additional requirements.
Arizona law requires that you obtain an Arizona driver license (and vehicle registration) immediately if any one of the following applies. If you:
- Work in Arizona (other than for seasonal agricultural work) -or-
- Are registered to vote in Arizona -or-
- Place children in school without paying the tuition rate of a nonresident -or-
- Have a business that has an office in Arizona, and that bases and operates vehicles in this state -or-
- Obtain a state license or pay school tuition fees at the same rate as an Arizona resident -or-
- Have a business that operates vehicles to transport goods or passengers within Arizona -or-
- Remain in Arizona for a total of 7 months or more during any calendar year, regardless of your permanent residence.
Required Paperwork
Before you head to the Arizona DMV Office, make sure you have all of the following required documents to get your driver's license:
On the Road
Once your licensing requirements have been met, you will receive your new:
- Restricted/Probationary License (16 to 18 years of age).
- Full Driver's License 18 and older) valid until you are 65.
Remember... the safe operation of a vehicle requires practiced skill, knowledge, and a respectful understanding of the limitations imposed by the other drivers and the environment.