Documents you need to bring to the MVD
To get an Arizona driver's license, you will need to bring proof of identity, proof of Arizona residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) accepts specific documents for each category, and you must bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work.
For proof of identity, the MVD accepts a valid passport, a birth certificate with a raised seal, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of Citizenship. If you are under 19, you can also use a school ID with your photo and date of birth. If your name has changed since your identity document was issued, you will need to bring documentation of that change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
For proof of Arizona residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or an official letter from a government agency dated within the last 60 days. A bank or credit card statement also works. The document must show your current Arizona address and your name.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring an original or certified proof of identity (passport, birth certificate with raised seal, or naturalization papers), proof of Arizona residency from the last 60 days, and proof of your Social Security number or ITIN.
- The MVD does not accept photocopies of identity documents; originals or certified copies are required.
- If you have changed your name, bring the document that proves the change — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
- You will take a vision test and a written knowledge test at the MVD office; bring your glasses or contacts if you use them.
- The fee for a standard five-year driver's license is set by Arizona law and varies slightly depending on your age and whether you want a standard or enhanced license.
What to bring if you are under 18
If you are under 18, you will need parental or guardian consent. Bring a parent or legal guardian with you to the MVD office, and they will need to sign your process in person. You still need all the same documents — proof of identity, proof of residency, and Social Security number or ITIN — but you can use a school ID as your proof of identity if it has your photo and date of birth.
Arizona also requires younger drivers to complete a driver education course before they can take the knowledge test. This course can be taken online or in person through an approved provider. You will need to bring proof of completion to the MVD.
The vision and knowledge tests
At your MVD appointment, you will take a vision screening and a written knowledge test. The vision test checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you — you will be tested while wearing them if you normally drive with them.
The knowledge test covers Arizona traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Arizona Driver License Manual, which is free on the MVD website. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment.
How to schedule your appointment
You can schedule an MVD appointment online through the Arizona MVD website or by calling the MVD customer service line. Online scheduling is usually faster, and you can choose your preferred location and time. Walk-ins are accepted at some locations, but wait times can be long, especially during busy hours.
When you schedule, you will be asked whether you are getting your first license, renewing, or replacing one. This affects which documents you need and which tests you will take. If you are moving to Arizona from another state, you will need to surrender your out-of-state license.
Fees and payment methods
The fee for a standard five-year Arizona driver's license depends on your age. The MVD accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at the office. If you are paying by check or money order, call ahead to confirm that your location accepts those methods, as some offices have restrictions.
If you want an enhanced driver's license — which allows you to cross the U.S.-Mexico border by land without a passport — the fee is higher. You will need to bring additional documents proving citizenship or lawful permanent residency.
What happens after you pass
After you pass the knowledge test and vision screening, the MVD will take your photo and issue your license. Your temporary license is printed on paper and is valid when ready. Your permanent plastic card will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.
If you do not receive your license within three weeks, contact the MVD to check the status. Keep your temporary license with you while you wait for the permanent one — it is a valid form of identification.
If you are not a U.S. citizen
Arizona issues driver's licenses to people who are not U.S. citizens, but you will need to prove your legal presence in the United States. Bring your passport and a document showing your immigration status — a visa, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), Permanent Resident Card, or a document from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
If you have an ITIN instead of a Social Security number, bring a letter from the IRS or a tax return showing your ITIN. The MVD will verify your information with federal databases before issuing your license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a driver's license if I do not have a Social Security number?
Yes. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring a letter from the IRS, a tax return, or an ITIN assignment letter as proof. You will still need all other documents — proof of identity and proof of residency.
What if my birth certificate does not have a raised seal?
A birth certificate without a raised seal is not accepted as proof of identity. Bring a different document instead — a passport, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of Citizenship. If you are under 19, a school ID with your photo and date of birth will also work.
Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?
Some MVD locations accept walk-ins, but appointment wait times are usually shorter. You can schedule online or by phone through the Arizona MVD website. If you do walk in, arrive early in the day, as wait times grow throughout the afternoon.
What if I fail the knowledge test?
You can retake the test the same day at most locations, or you can schedule another appointment. There is an additional fee for each retake. Study the Arizona Driver License Manual before your next attempt — it covers all the topics on the test.
How long does it take to get my permanent license after I pass?
Your temporary paper license is valid when ready. Your permanent plastic card arrives by mail within one to two weeks. If you do not receive it within three weeks, contact the MVD to check the status of your order.