Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to take a motorcycle training course?

All teens between 15 years and six months and 18 years of age are required to take a certified motorcycle safety course. Thirty hours of supervised driving practice must take place with the school. Once completed, the new motorcycle rider may schedule a motorcycle driving test. Keep in mind that you must hold the motorcycle driving permit for at least six months before being eligible to take the motorcycle driving test.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Arizona

Am I required to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle?

Motorcycle helmet laws in Arizona dictate that motorcycle riders younger than 18 must wear a helmet. If you are 18 and older, then you are not required by law to wear a safety helmet, although it is strongly encouraged. In addition, protective eyewear is mandatory if the motorcycle does not come with a front windshield.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Arizona

Can I renew my commercial drivers license online?

It is never possible to renew a commercial driver s license online in Arizona. Every five years you must get a CDL license renewal in person at an Arizona MVD office. Bring your current CDL and method of payment to be issued a renewed commercial driving license.

For more information: How to Renew a Commercial Driver s License (CDL) in Arizona

Can I take the DMV written test online?

No, at no point in time can you get a drivers permit online or take a DMV written test online. When learning how to drive, the Arizona DMV will require physical presence at the DMV for all matters. Once a full privileged license is issued though, then you can do a number of tasks online, such as:

For more information: Beginner Drivers in Arizona

Can I use my state CDL anywhere in the United States?

Yes, you may drive anywhere in the US with a CDL license, so long as you are at least 21 years old. With an interstate CDL, travel across the country is expected. If you are younger than 21 though, then you may only drive for personal reasons throughout the US with a commercial drivers license.

For more information: Arizona Commercial Driver s License (CDL) Application

Do I need a motorcycle license to ride a scooter or moped?

No, Arizona drivers do not need a motorcycle drivers license to operate moped. Title requirements are also waived for moped owners in the state.

To drive a scooter though, you must have a motorcycle driving license. Even though scooters (also known as motor driven cycles) are slower than motorcycles and are often not allowed on major highways, they are considered a type of motorcycle.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Arizona

Do I need to take a drivers ed course?

Drivers ed is not a requirement to get a learners permit. Nonetheless, enrolling in a drivers education course is encouraged. The knowledge and expertise of a driving teacher is the most helpful way of learning how to drive. By learning the various road rules and driving techniques from a professional, beginning drivers have a higher chance of passing the DMV driving test.

For more information: Learner s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Arizona

How can I get a veteran designation on my ID card?

A veteran designation can be included on an ID card for US military veterans and active duty service members. Below your photo, you will see “Veteran” printed in blue ink. To do so, check the Veteran Designation box on the A Driver License/ ID Card Application Form 40-5122, and submit the signed and completed form in person at an MVD office. To prove your military status, bring the DD214, 215, 2 (Retired), 2 (Reserve), or your military ID card or Armed Force ID card.

For more information: How to Apply for an Arizona Identification Card

How do I apply for a commercial drivers license?

To apply for a CDL license in Arizona, the first step is to have a valid AZ driver s license. Then, study for the CDL written knowledge test and pass the vision test. Enroll in a CDL drivers ed course that pertains to your CDL type and CDL class. After practicing driving with a commercial vehicle, submit a Medical Examination form and take a road test.

For more information: Arizona Commercial Driver s License (CDL) Application

How do I apply for a learner’s permit?

In Arizona, teens getting drivers permits have to pass a DMV written exam and vision test. Once meeting the passing requirements, beginning drivers are given a Graduated Instruction Permit. At this point, he or she has six months to practice driving to then receive a Graduated Drivers License, also known as a restricted drivers license in AZ.

For more information: Learner s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Arizona

How do I apply for a motorcycle license?

Getting a motorcycle license in Arizona takes a few steps:

  • Pass a motorcycle written test
  • Receive a motorcycle learners permit
  • Practice riding a motorcycle while abiding by instructional permit restrictions
  • Take a motorcycle driving test

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Arizona

How do I get a duplicate ID card?

If an ID card is lost, stolen or damaged beyond legibility, residents have the responsibility to replace ID cards. To get an ID card replacement in AZ, go to your local MVD office. Bring two documents that prove your identity, and a method of payment.

For more information: How to Apply for an Arizona Identification Card

How do I renew my driving permit?

An Arizona permit for driving can be renewed one time within 24 months. The majority of beginning drivers that apply for one receive a Graduated Driving License within that time period. If your child or you did not get a restricted drivers license within the allotted time, then you must apply for a driving permit again.

For more information: Learner s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Arizona

How do I renew my ID card?

Arizona is unique in its renewal requirements. Both driver s licenses and DMV ID cards never expire, until you turn 65 years of age. Instead, the photo must be updated every 12 years. To get an ID card renewal in Arizona, go to the MVD office nearest you to take a new photo.

For more information: How to Apply for an Arizona Identification Card

How do I renew my medical report for a commercial license?

All CDL drivers must submit a new medical examination report once a year. Have your primary physician complete and sign a Medical Examination Report for Commercial Driver Fitness form, then submit it by January 31 of every year. Whether or not your commercial drivers license is still valid, your rights to drive commercially will be revoked if you do not meet this deadline.

For more information: Arizona Commercial Driver s License (CDL) Application

How do I renew my motorcycle license?

To renew a motorcycle license, you are following the same steps as you would for your drivers license, as they are one and the same. There are two options to renew motorcycle licenses in AZ:

  • Online
  • In person

For more information: How to Renew/Replace a Motorcycle License in Arizona

How does a military member obtain a motorcycle license?

In Arizona, members of the military must follow the same process as civilians when getting a motorcycle license. If a loved one or you are stationed out of state though, then your motorcycle license renewal requirement is waived. Your motorcycle drivers license will be valid up to six months after you leave military service.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Arizona

How long do I need my learners permit before I can get my drivers license?

The first requirement of getting a learning permit is to be at least 15 years and six months old. If you get a driving permit while younger than 16, then you must hold the learner s permit for at least six months. After passing the driving test, then a restricted driver s license is issued. When you turn 18, then your driving license becomes a fully privileged license.

For more information: Learner s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Arizona

How long will it take to get my new ID card?

When you get your first ID card in person, you will receive it in the same day. Because the MVD office prints out identification cards on site, any type of request is performed in the same day. For instance, when you renew ID cards or replace ID cards in person, a new one will be issued immediately.

If you opt to get ID card replacements online or over the phone, a new ID will arrive within two weeks.

For more information: How to Apply for an Arizona Identification Card

How often do I need to renew my CDL license?

The Arizona Department of Transportation issues five-year commercial driving licenses. Every year, a Medical Examination Report for Commercial Driver Fitness form must be submitted unless you select to self-certify. Renewing a CDL is only possible in person.

For more information: How to Renew a Commercial Driver s License (CDL) in Arizona

If I’m out of state and lost my ID, how can I get a new one?

If you lose your ID while out of state, you can replace an ID card by calling 877-301-8093. The Arizona MVD will send a temporary replacement ID cards the same day. For more help, call the MVD:

  • Phoenix: 602.255.0072
  • Tucson: 520.629.9808
  • Elsewhere in Arizona: 800.251.5866

For more information: How to Apply for an Arizona Identification Card

Is there a minimum age I have to be to get a commercial drivers license?

To apply for a CDL in Arizona, you must be at least 18 years of age. At that point in time, you have had a driver s license for at least one year s time, which is a CDL license requirement. Commercial drivers between 18 and 21 are restricted to intrastate travel though. On your 21stbirthday though, your CDL automatically changes to interstate and you are able to drive across all state borders.

For more information: Arizona Commercial Driver s License (CDL) Application

What are the age restrictions to ride a motorcycle?

To get a motorcycle license, you must be at least 15 years and six months old in Arizona. After which, you must hold a learner s permit until a motorcycle training course or 30 hours of riding is completed. If you are 18 and older, you do not need to get a learner s permit; however, you must pass a motorcycle driving test or get certification from a motorcycle drivers training school.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Arizona

What are the available commercial license endorsements?

There are five different types of CDL endorsements commercial drivers can receive in Arizona:

  1. Passenger endorsement
  2. School bus endorsement
  3. Doubles/triples endorsement
  4. Tank vehicle endorsement
  5. Hazardous materials endorsement

For more information: How to Renew a Commercial Driver s License (CDL) in Arizona

What are the fees associated with an ID card?

Arizona ID card-related fees are as follows:

  • New ID card: $12
  • ID Card renewal: $4
  • ID Card replacement: $4

All MVD offices accept cash, check, traveler s check or money order. Call your specific MVD location in advance to find out if credit or debit cards are accepted.

For more information: How to Apply for an Arizona Identification Card

What are the learners permit restrictions during my first year?

With an original instruction permit, you must drive with a fully-licensed driver at least 21 years of age between the hours of daylight. Once a Graduated Drivers License is issued, there is more freedom. Driving is restricted only between the hours of midnight and 5 a.m. In addition, drivers must have a parent or legal guardian sitting in the passenger seat. The one exception is when driving to and from a school-sponsored event, religious event, work or a family emergency.

For more information: Learner s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Arizona

What are the medical certifications required to obtain a CDL?

To be a commercial driver in Arizona, you must show proof of being in good health. An illness or other condition could otherwise cause an accident or collision while on the roads. To maintain this, the Arizona Department of Transportation works with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to guarantee all CDL licensed drivers complete a medical evaluation form.

Have your primary physician fill out a Medical Examination Report for Commercial Driver Fitness form.

For more information: Arizona Commercial Driver s License (CDL) Application

What are the penalties for getting a traffic ticket with a driver’s permit?

If you are convicted of a traffic violation as a minor driver with a graduated drivers license, then you will be subject to the following penalties:

  • Mandatory attendance of Traffic Survival School
  • Will have violation go on your driving record

For more information: Traffic Tickets and Violations in Arizona

What are the requirements to operate a three-wheel motorcycle?

To operate a three-wheel motorcycle or trike in Arizona, all motorists need a motorcycle drivers license. Depending on your age, you may need to hold a motorcycle learning permit. All beginner three-wheeled motorcycle riders must pass the following test:

  1. Vision exam
  2. Written driving test
  3. Three-wheeled motorcycle drivers exam

You will receive a motorcycle endorsement on your driver s license upon successful completion of all requirements.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Arizona

What documents do I need to get a learner’s permit?

When completing a drivers permit application, have the following documents on hand to provide at the same time:

  • Parental consent
  • Proof of identity
  • Proof of age
  • Proof of Arizona residency
  • Social Security card

If available, you may show an AZ ID card to show proof of identity, age and residency. Otherwise, bring in separate documentation.

For more information: Learner s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Arizona

What documents do I need to get a motorcycle license?

The only document required when applying for a motorcycle license is a valid Arizona driver s license. There isn t a separate motorcycle license available in Arizona; instead, you receive a motorcycle endorsement on your current driving license. If you are younger than 18, you must first hold a motorcycle learning permit for six months time, and take a motorcycle safety course.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Arizona

What exams do I need to pass to get a motorcycle license?

In Arizona, there are three types of exams that must be taken:

  1. Vision test
  2. Written drivers test
  3. Driving test

In order to take the exams, first make an appointment at the MVD. The first two tests vision and written are to get a motorcycle learners permit. The successful completion of the motorcycle driving test will result in you getting your AZ motorcycle drivers license.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Arizona

What happens to my commercial driver license if I am convicted of a DUI?

The penalties for driving under the influence in Arizona are severe:

  • First conviction: One year in jail
  • First conviction in a Hazmat vehicle: Three years in jail
  • Second conviction: Lifetime jail sentence
  • Second conviction in a Hazmat vehicle: Lifetime jail sentence

For more information: DUI/DWI Information for Colorado

What is an ID card?

An ID card is used to prove the identity of an Arizona resident. The details included are a photo, full name, birth date and residential address. An identification card can be used to fly within the country, open bank accounts and even purchase alcohol. At no point in time can an ID card holder drive a motor vehicle on public roadways.

For more information: How to Apply for an Arizona Identification Card

What is the passing score for a written test?

To pass the Arizona DMV written test, you must get at least 24 answers correct. The writing exam consists of 30 questions that deal with the following:

  • Road rules
  • Pavement markings
  • Traffic lights
  • Road signs

For more information: Beginner Drivers in Arizona

What test do I need to take for my learners permit?

A written drivers test is required to get an AZ learners permit. In addition, vision will be tested at the same time. After having a restricted drivers license for six months, teen drivers must pass a behind-the-wheel drivers exam.

For more information: Beginner Drivers in Arizona

What tests do I have to take to obtain a CDL?

Getting a license to drive commercial in Arizona requires a series of written tests and drivers ed exams. The first set of CDL tests are the medical and vision exams. Preventing the risk of collisions and accidents is imperative for commercial drivers; therefore a Medical Examination Report for Commercial Driver Fitness must be submitted in order to take the written test. Once the CDL writing exam is completed, you will receive a CDL learner s permit. Within this time period, you are given the time to practice and study for CDL endorsements and CDL class types. Depending on the type of endorsement and class, you will then have another series of written tests and a CDL driving exam.

For more information: Arizona Commercial Driver s License (CDL) Application

When does my ID card expire?

An Arizona ID card never expires, instead. Every 12 years, you must visit an MVD office in person and take a new photo. If you have a driver s license and your photo visit occurs between the ages of 60 and 65, you will be issued a five-year driving license thereafter.

For more information: How to Apply for an Arizona Identification Card

Where can I obtain an ID card?

There is one place to go to apply for ID cards in Arizona: a Motor Vehicle Division office. Residents can take advantage of any location, although it is most common to go to one nearest your residence. Before heading over, take a moment to schedule an appointment. In doing so, you eliminate the likelihood of long wait lines.

For more information: Arizona DMV Office Contact Information

Who can sign for my permit or license if I am under 18?

At the time of filling out a drivers permit application, beginning drivers must bring a parent or legal guardian to the DMV when younger than 18. There is a section which requires his or her signature. In addition, the DMV agent will request to see official proof of identity.

For more information: Learner s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Arizona