Things to Know About Applying for Your Arizona Driver’s License

If you are new to Arizona, welcome to the state of amazing desert sunsets, some of the hottest summer temperatures but the best winter weather around. One of the first things new residents find themselves trying to do is trying to obtain a new driver’s license. There are a few things you need to know about applying for your Arizona drivers license.

First off, in order to be considered a resident of Arizona, you need to have an updated license. You will also need to register your vehicle(s) in this state.

How do I know if I should register as an Arizona resident?

The Arizona Motor Vehicle Department makes it very clear as to who they deem a resident of Arizona. They include the following (direct from the website):

• You work in Arizona (other than for seasonal agricultural work).
• You are registered to vote in this state.
• You place children in school without paying the tuition rate of a nonresident.
• You have a business with an office in Arizona that bases and operates vehicles in this state.
• You obtain a state license or pay school tuition fees at the same rate as an Arizona resident.
• You have a business that operates vehicles to transport goods or passengers within Arizona.
• You remain in Arizona for a total of seven months or more during any calendar year, regardless of your permanent residence.

In addition, active-duty military personnel based in Arizona who qualifies for exemption under the Service Members Civil Relief Act of 2003 are not considered Arizona residents.

What is Required in Order to Receive a Driver’s License in Arizona?

There are certain documents required in order to receive a driver’s license in Arizona. For a standard drivers license, you will need the following:

• One primary form of identification. Examples include: birth certificates, U.S. passports, passport cards, permanent resident cards and more.
• Social security number document.
• Name change documents if applicable.
• Two forms of Arizona residency documents. This can include things like documents or mail issued in your name with a physical residential address.

If you would like to apply for a Travel ID, the requirements for documents are slightly different. They require the following:

• 1 of the following proof of identity:
• Original Birth Certificate
• Current US Passport or Passport Card

AND 1 of the following proof of social security:

• Social Security Card
• W-2 form
• 1099 Form
• Paycheck stub

AND 2 other documents proving Arizona residency

• Utility bills:
• Bank/credit card settlement
• Insurance policy

Current Arizona license or registration with current address, etc.

What is Required in Order to Title My Vehicle in Arizona?

Your vehicle may be registered in Arizona for one, two or five years, depending on emissions testing requirements. The requirements in order to obtain a title in Arizona include:

• Emissions test
• Vehicle insurance
• Proof of ownership: This means you will need to provide your out-of-state title and registration.
• Signatures from all applicants.
• If you do not have complete documentation, you may apply for a 90-day registration so that you have time to gather the proper documents.

Where Can I Obtain an Arizona Driver’s License and Register My Vehicle(s)?

The best part about moving to Arizona is that you have options for obtaining your new Arizona driver’s license and registration. You can visit a third-party dealer in order to avoid the Arizona MVD office. Your best bet is to visit a 1 Stop Motor Vehicle Services location.

At 1 Stop Motor Vehicle Services, our services dive beyond to Motor Carrier Services. As a third-party authorized MVD dealer, we offer things that the standard Arizona MVD office typically offers. We can supply you with a new driver’s license, updated vehicle registration, new plates, permits, inspections, notary services and the list goes on.

Final Thoughts on Things to Know About Applying for Your Arizona Driver’s License

Welcome to the beautiful state of Arizona. Applying for an Arizona driver’s license and vehicle registration is simple and easy when you know what to do. Gather all the pertinent documents and head over to a 1 Stop Motor Vehicle Services location for all your MVS needs. In addition to MVD services another offer is motor carrier services and fleet services.