Documents required for an Arizona driver's license
To get an Arizona driver's license, you need to bring three categories of documents to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT): proof of identity, proof of Arizona residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The exact documents that work depend on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an expired one, or replacing a lost card. ADOT accepts a specific list of documents for each category — bringing something similar but not on the list will not work, so checking the official list before you go saves a trip.
You will also need to pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs, a vision screening, and a driving test (unless you are renewing). The written test is offered in English and several other languages. If you fail any test, you can retake it the same day at most locations, though you may have to pay the test fee again.
Key Takeaways
- Bring one document from each of three categories: identity, Arizona residency, and Social Security number proof — ADOT has a specific approved list for each.
- A U.S. passport, passport card, or tribal ID works for identity; a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement works for residency proof.
- You must pass a written test, vision screening, and driving test; the written test is available in multiple languages.
- First-time applicants must be at least 16 years old and have held a learner's permit for at least six months (or five months if you are 18 or older).
- Bring your Social Security card, a document showing your number, or a letter from Social Security — a tax return or W-2 also works.
Proof of identity documents ADOT accepts
For identity, ADOT accepts a U.S. passport, U.S. passport card, tribal ID card, military ID, or an out-of-state driver's license or ID card. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a certified birth certificate plus one additional document from a longer list that includes a school ID, employee ID, or insurance card. The birth certificate must be an official certified copy with a raised seal or embossed seal — a photocopy or a document printed from an online vital records database will not work.
If you were born outside the United States, you can use a U.S. passport, passport card, or a Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship. A green card (Permanent Resident Card) also works for identity proof.
Proof of Arizona residency documents ADOT accepts
For residency, you need a document showing your current Arizona address. ADOT accepts a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, an insurance policy, a bank or credit card statement, or an Arizona vehicle registration. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and Arizona address. A PO box does not count as proof of residency.
If you have just moved to Arizona and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, you can bring a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead, stating your name, the property address, and the move-in date. Some ADOT offices also accept an affidavit of residency, which you can sign in front of an ADOT employee if you have no other documents available.
Proof of Social Security number documents ADOT accepts
Bring your original Social Security card, a document issued by Social Security (such as a benefit letter or award letter), a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have your Social Security card and cannot get a replacement from Social Security quickly, a recent tax return or W-2 is usually the fastest option. ADOT will not accept a photocopy of your Social Security card — it must be the original.
If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get an Arizona ID card, but not a driver's license. You will need to bring a document from Social Security stating that you are not may be able to access for a number, or a passport or visa showing your immigration status.
What to bring if you are renewing or replacing your license
If your Arizona driver's license is expired or about to expire, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person. Renewal by mail or online requires only your current or expired license and a fee — you do not need to bring proof of identity, residency, or Social Security number again. You also do not have to retake the written, vision, or driving test unless ADOT sends you a notice requiring it.
If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you must go to an ADOT office in person and bring the same three categories of documents as a first-time applicant. You will not have to retake the tests, but you will have to pay a replacement fee in addition to the license fee.
Age requirements and learner's permit rules
You must be at least 16 years old to get an Arizona driver's license. Before you can take the driving test, you must hold a learner's permit for at least six months. If you are 18 or older, the waiting period is five months instead. During this time, you must follow the restrictions on your permit: you cannot drive alone, and you must have a licensed driver at least 21 years old in the front seat with you.
To get a learner's permit, you need the same three categories of documents (identity, residency, and Social Security proof) and must pass the written test and vision screening. You do not take a driving test for the permit. Once you have held the permit for the required time, you can schedule a driving test appointment at an ADOT office.
Fees and what happens at your appointment
The fee for a first-time driver's license varies depending on how long you want the license to be valid — typically 5, 8, or 12 years. The learner's permit has a separate fee. You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at most ADOT offices. Some offices also accept online payment if you schedule an appointment in advance.
At your appointment, bring all your documents, your completed process form (which you can fill out online beforehand or at the office), and your fee. You will have your photo taken, pass the vision screening, and take the written test if you are a first-time applicant. If you pass, you will take the driving test on the same day or schedule it for another time. Your temporary license is printed on the spot; your permanent card arrives by mail in about two weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a digital copy of my documents instead of the original?
No. ADOT requires original documents or certified copies for most items. The only exception is that you can show a digital image of your Social Security card on your phone if you also bring the original card. For all other documents, bring the physical original or a certified copy from the issuing agency.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
You can get an Arizona ID card but not a driver's license. Bring a document from Social Security stating you are not may be able to access for a number, or your passport or visa showing your immigration status. An ID card works for most purposes but does not allow you to drive.
Do I have to take the driving test if I already have a license from another state?
Yes. Arizona requires all new residents to take the written test, vision screening, and driving test, even if you have a valid out-of-state license. You do not have to hold a learner's permit first — you can go straight to the driving test. Bring your out-of-state license as your proof of identity.
What if my name has changed since my birth certificate was issued?
Bring your birth certificate plus a document showing your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The name-change document must be an official certified copy. If you cannot find the original, contact the agency that issued it and request a certified copy.
How long does it take to get my license after I pass the test?
Your temporary license is printed at the ADOT office on the day you pass. Your permanent card is mailed to your address within about two weeks. If you need the card sooner, some ADOT offices offer rush processing for an additional fee.