Documents you'll bring to the MVD office

Arizona's travel driver's license (also called a standard license) requires you to show proof of identity, proof of Arizona residency, and proof of your Social Security number. You cannot get this license by mail or online — you must visit a Motor Vehicle Division office in person.

Bring one document from each of these three categories. The MVD will not accept expired documents for identity or residency, though Social Security proof can be older.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one identity document (passport, birth certificate, or tribal ID), one residency document (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement), and one Social Security proof (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return).
  • All documents must be originals or certified copies — photocopies and digital images on your phone will not be accepted.
  • You must visit an MVD office in person; there is no online or mail option for a travel license.
  • The fee is $25 for a five-year license or $40 for a ten-year license, payable by cash, check, debit card, or credit card.
  • Processing takes about 15 minutes at the office, and you leave with your license the same day.

Proof of identity documents that work

Your identity document must show your name, date of birth, and a photo (except for birth certificates). The MVD accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, tribal ID card, or military ID. If you have a passport or passport card, bring that — it satisfies both identity and citizenship in one document.

If you bring a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy with the state seal, not a photocopy. Hospital-issued birth certificates do not count. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or a Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship.

Proof of Arizona residency documents that work

Your residency document must show your current name and current Arizona address. The MVD accepts a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, an insurance policy, or a bank or credit card statement. The document must be dated within 60 days of your visit.

If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from that person stating you live there, plus the utility bill or lease in their name. If you are homeless or do not have a fixed address, ask the MVD office staff what documents they can accept — options exist but vary by location.

Proof of Social Security number documents that work

Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a birth certificate, or a passport. The document does not need to be current. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can request a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one, and the MVD will accept that.

If your Social Security card is lost or damaged, you can still use a W-2 or tax return from any year. You do not need to replace the card before getting your license.

What to expect when you arrive at the MVD office

Bring all three documents in originals or certified copies. The MVD office will check them, take your photo, and ask you to sign. You will answer questions about your address, height, eye color, and whether you have any medical conditions that affect driving. The staff will also ask if you want to register as an organ donor.

You will take a vision test at the office. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. You do not need to take a written test or a driving test for a travel license — the MVD assumes you already know how to drive. The entire process takes about 15 minutes.

Fees and payment methods

A five-year travel license costs $25. A ten-year license costs $40. You can pay with cash, check, debit card, or credit card. The MVD does not accept payment plans or installments — you must pay the full amount at the time of your visit.

If you are over 65, you may be able to get a five-year license for a reduced fee. Ask the staff when you arrive. Some MVD offices also offer discounts for military members or veterans, though this varies by location.

When you'll receive your license and what to do if it doesn't arrive

You leave the MVD office with a temporary paper license that day. Your permanent plastic card is mailed to the address you provided, usually within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to travel before the card arrives, the paper license is valid for driving.

If your card does not arrive within two weeks, contact the MVD office where you applied. Bring your temporary license and ask them to check the status. If the card was lost in the mail, they can issue a replacement. There is usually no extra fee for a replacement card if it was lost before you received it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

Most MVD offices accept walk-ins, but some locations require appointments. Check the MVD website or call your local office before you go. Wait times vary — offices are usually less busy early in the morning on weekdays.

What if I don't have a birth certificate?

You can use a passport, passport card, or tribal ID instead. If you do not have any of these, you can order a birth certificate from the state where you were born and have it sent to you before your MVD visit. This usually takes one to two weeks.

Can I use a digital copy of my documents on my phone?

No. The MVD requires originals or certified copies printed on paper. Digital images, screenshots, and PDF files on your phone will not be accepted, even if they are notarized.

What if my name has changed since my documents were issued?

Bring the document showing your old name plus a document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The MVD will use your current legal name on the license.

Can someone else pick up my license if I can't go to the MVD office?

No. You must be present in person to have your photo taken and sign the license process. There is no exception for this requirement.