What You Can Drive With an Arizona Class D License

A Class D license lets you drive most passenger vehicles on Arizona roads

An Arizona Class D license is the standard driver license for operating passenger cars, pickup trucks, and similar vehicles. It is the most common license type and covers vehicles up to a certain weight limit. If you drive a regular car or small truck for personal use, a Class D is what you need.

The Class D does not cover commercial vehicles, vehicles over a certain weight, or vehicles carrying passengers or cargo for hire. Those require different license classes. But for everyday driving — commuting, errands, family trips — a Class D is sufficient.

Key Takeaways

A Class D license permits you to drive passenger cars, pickup trucks, and vans under 26,001 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
You must be at least 16 years old to get a Class D, and you will need to pass a written test, vision test, and driving test.
Arizona issues Class D licenses valid for 12 years if you are under 65, and 5 years if you are 65 or older.
If you want to tow a trailer, you may need a Class D with an endorsement depending on the trailer weight and your vehicle's GVWR.

What vehicles you can and cannot drive

With a Class D license, you can drive any passenger vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,000 pounds or less. This includes standard cars, SUVs, minivans, and pickup trucks used for personal transportation. Most vehicles on Arizona roads fall into this category.

You cannot drive vehicles heavier than 26,000 pounds GVWR, commercial vehicles designed to carry cargo for payment, or buses carrying more than 15 passengers. If you need to drive a commercial truck, a school bus, or a vehicle for hire, you will need a different license class — such as Class A or Class B — and additional training.

Towing rules depend on the combined weight of your vehicle and trailer. If your vehicle's GVWR plus the trailer's GVWR exceeds 26,000 pounds, you may need a Class A or Class B license instead. Check your vehicle's registration or owner's manual for the GVWR before towing.

Age requirements and when you can drive

You must be at least 16 years old to get a Class D license in Arizona. If you are 16 or 17, you can get a restricted license, which allows you to drive but with limitations on when and where you can drive. These restrictions typically include no driving between midnight and 5 a.m., and no use of cell phones while driving.

At age 18, you can get an unrestricted Class D license with no time-of-day limitations. The restrictions on a minor's license are designed to reduce crash risk during high-risk driving hours.

How to get an Arizona Class D license

To get a Class D license, you will need to visit an Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) office or an authorized third-party tester. Bring proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or passport), proof of Arizona residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

You will take three tests: a written knowledge test covering traffic laws and road signs, a vision test, and a behind-the-wheel driving test. The written test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass. The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. The driving test evaluates your ability to control the vehicle and follow traffic laws.

If you already have a valid driver license from another state, you may not need to take all three tests. Arizona recognizes some out-of-state licenses, though you will still need to pass a vision test and provide the required documents. Check with your local ADOT office about what tests you need.

License validity and renewal

An Arizona Class D license is valid for 12 years if you are under 65 years old. If you are 65 or older, your license is valid for 5 years. Your license will have an expiration date printed on the front.

You can renew your license before it expires by visiting an ADOT office, using the online renewal system (if you are not changing your address or other information), or by mail. Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access. If your license has already expired, you will need to visit an office in person and may need to retake the written and driving tests depending on how long it has been expired.

Endorsements you might need

An endorsement is an addition to your Class D license that permits you to drive certain vehicle types or carry certain cargo. The most common endorsement for Class D holders is the motorcycle endorsement (M), which allows you to operate a motorcycle. You must pass a separate motorcycle knowledge test and skills test to get this endorsement.

Another endorsement is the towing endorsement, though this is less common for Class D. If you tow a trailer and your combined vehicle and trailer weight exceeds 26,000 pounds, you will need a heavier license class rather than an endorsement.

If you want to tow a small trailer and your combined weight stays under 26,000 pounds, you do not need an endorsement — your Class D covers it. Always check your vehicle's GVWR and the trailer's weight before towing.

Restrictions and violations

Driving a vehicle you are not licensed to drive is a violation in Arizona. If you drive a commercial truck or bus without the proper license class, you can be cited and fined. Driving with a suspended or revoked license is also a serious violation that can result in jail time and fines.

If you accumulate too many traffic violations or are convicted of certain crimes, your license may be suspended or revoked. Arizona uses a point system where violations add points to your record. Accumulating 8 or more points in 12 months can trigger a suspension.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive a pickup truck with a Class D license?

Yes, as long as the pickup truck's GVWR is 26,000 pounds or less, which covers almost all personal-use pickup trucks. Check your vehicle's registration or owner's manual for the GVWR. If it exceeds 26,000 pounds, you would need a Class A or Class B license.

Do I need a special license to tow a trailer?

Not if your vehicle and trailer combined weight stays under 26,000 pounds GVWR. If the combined weight exceeds 26,000 pounds, you need a heavier license class. Add your vehicle's GVWR and the trailer's GVWR to determine if you need a different license.

What happens if my Class D license expires?

You cannot legally drive once your license expires. You can renew online or by mail before expiration, or visit an ADOT office after expiration. If your license has been expired for more than a few years, you may need to retake the written and driving tests.

Can I get a Class D license at age 16?

Yes, but it will be a restricted license with limitations on driving hours and phone use. At age 18, you can get an unrestricted Class D license. The restrictions are designed to reduce crash risk for young drivers.

What documents do I need to bring to get a Class D license?

Bring proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, or state ID), proof of Arizona residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number or ITIN. Check the ADOT website for a complete list of acceptable documents before you visit.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.