How to Get an Arizona Driver’s License in 2025

Getting an Arizona driver’s license can be an exciting time for both teenagers and young adults. Like many states, the state of Arizona follows a Graduated Drivers License program. The GDL program guides younger drivers through the process of learning how to drive by gradually increasing their privileges after each step.

In this article, you’ll learn exactly how to get your driver’s license in Arizona, whether you’re a teen or an adult.

Driver’s Permit (Ages 15 ½ to 18)

At 15 ½ years old, you will be eligible for your Arizona learner permit. With your permit, you will be allowed to practice driving with an adult 21 years or older who holds a valid license.

If you’re over the age of 18, you can skip this step and start with a full license.

You’ll need to visit your local Arizona MVD in order to apply for your permit. If you’re under 18, your parent or legal guardian will need to be with you and provide their consent. You will need to fill out Form 40-5122 when you make it to the MVD.

You must provide two examples of primary documentation. This includes, but is not limited to, your birth certificate, passport, or military ID. These documents must prove your identity, date of birth, residential address in Arizona, and legal presence or citizenship.

Tests

Your vision will be tested to ensure your eyesight won’t cause you any trouble on the road. You must exhibit a vision score of 20/40 or better in at least one eye.

The Arizona MVD will test you on road signs and traffic laws throughout the state. There are 30 questions on the knowledge exam. You must answer 24 correctly for a score of 80% in order to pass.

The test can be difficult, but there’s no reason you need to fail. Luckily, Zutobi has you covered! With dozens of interactive modules, a summarized handbook, and Arizona permit practice tests – Zutobi has all the tools to help you ace your test while having a bit of fun at the same time.

Restrictions

You must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and occupies the seat beside you at all times when driving.

If you want to learn more, you should check out our in-depth guide here.

Graduated Arizona Driver’s License (Ages 16 to 18)

The Graduated Driver License is the next step to the GDL program. You will be offered a few more privileges, but will still need to drive supervised most of the time in order to legally operate.

Graduated License Requirements

You will need to meet the following requirements to be able to move on to this stage in the licensing process.

• Be at least 16 years old
• Have held an instruction permit for at least six months
• Complete 30 hours of supervised driving, including at least 10 hours at night
• OR provide proof of completion of an Arizona MVD-approved driver education program

How to Get a Graduated License in Arizona

Step 1: Visit Arizona MVD

You must visit an Arizona MVD office or an authorized third-party provider to apply for your graduated driver license. If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must accompany you to provide their consent. An appointment will need to be made in order to schedule a road test.

Step 2: Complete Application Form

Form 40-5122 will need to be filled out and handed to the MVD agent. You can fill it out online or at the MVD office. Your parent or legal guardian must sign this form in the presence of an MVD agent.

Step 3: Provide Required Documentation

You’ll need to provide the following:

• One primary form of identification (e.g., birth certificate, U.S. passport)
• One secondary form of identification (e.g., Social Security card, school ID with photo)
• Proof of Arizona residency (e.g., utility bill, school enrollment record)

Step 4: Pass Road Test

The Arizona road test is required to test your driving ability in a variety of situations. You will be required to demonstrate your ability to park, perform three-point turns, maintain proper following distance, and more. You’ll be observed and graded on specific actions, as well as your general ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.

Step 5: Pay Licensing Fee

You’ll need to pay the fee when for your graduated license when applying. You can pay this fee with cash, check, credit or debit card, or money order.

Graduated Driver’s License Restrictions

After receiving your graduated driver license, the following restrictions apply for the first six months:

• No driving between 12:00 AM and 5:00 AM unless:
  • Accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21 years old
  • Traveling to/from work, school, or a religious event
  • Involved in a medical emergency
• No more than one passenger under 18, unless they are immediate family (siblings or children of the driver).

Once you turn 18, these restrictions are lifted, and your license automatically converts into a full, unrestricted driver’s license.

Full Adult Arizona Driver’s License (18+)

If you are 18 or older, you can apply directly for a Class D driver license without going through the graduated licensing process. If you have completed the GDL, you will be able to bypass any tests and get your license.

How Do You Get Your Arizona License as a New Driver Over 18?

If you’re a new driver and you haven’t gone through the GDL, you will need to pass the written test and the road test before being issued a license.

1. Visit an MVD office or an authorized third-party provider.
2. Complete the Driver License/Identification Card Application.
3. Provide proof of identity, residency, and legal presence.
4. Pass a vision screening.
5. Pass the written knowledge test.
6. Pass the road test.
7. Pay the licensing fee.

Are you worried about your test? The test can be difficult, but there’s no reason you need to fail. We’ll help you pass with dozens of interactive modules, a summarized handbook, and Arizona permit practice tests.