What you need to do to get an Arizona driver's license
To get an Arizona driver's license, you visit an Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) office in person, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay a fee. The whole process takes about two to four weeks from start to finish, though you can get a temporary permit to drive while you wait for your card to arrive by mail. You must be at least 16 years old, have proof of your Social Security number, proof of your Arizona residency, and proof of your identity.
Arizona does not issue licenses by mail or online. You must show up to an ADOT office with your documents, take the tests there, and have your photo taken. If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, you can skip the written and driving tests — you just need to surrender your old license and pay the fee.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit an ADOT office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and Arizona residency to get a license.
- First-time drivers take a written knowledge test and a behind-the-wheel driving test at the ADOT office; out-of-state license holders skip both tests.
- The fee for a standard five-year license is $25, and you can request a temporary permit to drive when ready while your card is mailed to you.
- Your physical license card arrives by mail within two to four weeks; bring the temporary permit if you are stopped by police before it arrives.
Documents you must bring to the ADOT office
Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work. You need one document that proves your identity (a passport, birth certificate, or consular ID card), one document that proves your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form), and two documents that prove you live in Arizona (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).
If you are under 18, bring your birth certificate and proof that a parent or guardian gave permission — usually a signed form from the ADOT website or a parent present at the office. If you changed your name, bring the court order or marriage certificate showing the change. If you are a non-citizen, bring your visa, passport, or other immigration document showing you are lawfully in the United States.
The written test and what it covers
The written test has 30 multiple-choice questions about Arizona traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 24 correctly to pass. The test covers speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, seat belt laws, and what different road signs mean. You can study the official Arizona Driver License Manual, which ADOT publishes free online and updates yearly.
You take the test on a computer at the ADOT office. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day — there is no limit on attempts, though you pay a small fee each time. Many people pass on the first try if they study the manual for a few hours beforehand.
The driving test and how it is scored
The driving test lasts about 10 to 15 minutes. An ADOT examiner sits in the passenger seat while you drive a set route in your own car or a rental. The examiner watches for basic skills: smooth steering, proper use of mirrors, stopping at signs, turning safely, and following speed limits. You must bring a car that is registered, insured, and in working condition — the examiner will check the brakes, lights, and wipers before you start.
You pass if you do not make any major mistakes like running a red light, hitting a curb, or failing to yield. Minor mistakes like hesitating too long or drifting slightly do not fail you. If you fail, you can retake the test after waiting a few days — call the office where you tested to schedule your next attempt.
Finding an ADOT office and scheduling your visit
Arizona has ADOT offices in most cities and towns. You can find the nearest one and check hours on the ADOT website. Some offices take walk-ins, but many now require you to book an appointment online or by phone. During busy seasons (spring and summer), appointments can fill up weeks in advance, so book as soon as you know you need a license.
Bring all your documents and arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. The office will check your documents, take your photo, have you sign forms, and schedule your written and driving tests — all on the same day if you are ready. If you are not ready to drive that day, you can schedule the driving test for another day.
Fees and what you get
A standard five-year Arizona driver's license costs $25. A ten-year license costs $50. You pay at the ADOT office when you pass both tests. If you are 65 or older, a five-year license costs $10. If you are a non-citizen, you may pay a slightly higher fee depending on your visa type.
After you pay, you get a temporary paper permit that lets you drive when ready while your plastic card is mailed to you. The card usually arrives within two to four weeks. If you are stopped by police before it arrives, show them the temporary permit. Keep the temporary permit until your card comes — do not throw it away.
If you already have a license from another state
If you hold a valid driver's license from another state or country, you do not take the written or driving test. You go to an ADOT office, show your current license and proof of Arizona residency, pay the $25 fee, and have your photo taken. Your Arizona license is mailed to you within two to four weeks. You can still request a temporary permit to drive while you wait.
Your out-of-state license is surrendered to ADOT — you do not get it back. If you want to keep it as a souvenir, ask the examiner before you hand it over; some offices will make a copy for you instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a license if I do not have a Social Security number?
No. Arizona requires proof of a Social Security number to issue a driver's license. If you are a non-citizen without a Social Security number, you may be able to get an Arizona ID card instead, which serves many of the same purposes but does not let you drive. Contact your local ADOT office to ask about non-driver ID options.
What if I fail the driving test?
You can retake it after a waiting period — usually a few days to a week. Call the ADOT office where you tested to schedule your next attempt. There is no limit on how many times you can retake it, though you pay a fee each time. Many people pass on the second or third try after more practice.
How long is my temporary permit good for?
Your temporary permit is valid for 30 days. Your plastic license should arrive before then, but if it does not, contact ADOT to ask about a replacement. Do not drive without either the temporary permit or your plastic card once the 30 days are up.
Can someone else pick up my license card when it arrives?
No. Arizona mails the card to the address you provided at the ADOT office. You must be the one to receive it. If you move before it arrives, contact ADOT to update your mailing address so the card is sent to your new home.
Do I need to take the test again if I renew my license?
No. When your license expires, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person without retaking any tests. You only take the written and driving tests when you first get a license or when you move to Arizona from another state.